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Following an outcry from local artists, the World Cup Local Organising Committee (LOC) has decided to include more South African artists in the line-up for the concert at Soweto's Orlando Stadium on 10 June.
This comes after a meeting between Arts and Culture Minister Lulu Xingwana, LOC CEO Dr Danny Jordaan and the Creative Workers Union of South Africa (CWUSA) President Mabutho Sithole, in Sandton on Tuesday.
"We agreed that more artists would be included in the June 10th Concert line-up so that it should be more representative and reflect gender and demographic concerns. No names will be publicly announced until contracts are signed with the artists," read a statement issued by the LOC.
"There would be further engagement on the arts and culture components at fan parks and Public Viewing Areas to make this a truly African art and culture experience. A meeting with the 2010 Host Cities will be held to consolidate this engagement," the statement continued.
Minister Xingwana said she was satisfied with the outcome of the meeting.
"I am glad that all stakeholders could agree on a way forward and on the principle of greater representation of South African and African artists on this major global platform to be held on South African soil. I want to commend all parties for the manner in which they conducted the discussions," commented Xingwana.
Jordaan said the agreement showed that the LOC does support local musicians.
"We've always maintained that the incredibly talented South African and African music industry will play a major part in the tournament's off-field success and character," said Jordaan.
"So, we are certainly very supportive of South African artists using the tournament's considerable platform to showcase their talents and we will continue to constructively engage with CWUSA in this regard," added Jordaan.
CWUSA President Sithole said: "The Ministry must be commended for heeding the call of the local industry on this matter. We have taken one small step but we are hopeful that this dialogue will continue so that we optimise opportunities for our sector."
"In light of the agreements reached at this meeting, CWUSA therefore calls off its intended march on the 15 April 2010," concluded Sithole.
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