The Pan-African Network for Artistic Freedom (PANAF) project, which began in 2021, is moving into Phase Two with continued support from the Swedish Arts Council (SAC) and new backing from the Swedish Institute. This second phase, which will run from 2024 to 2027, builds on the successes of Phase One, expanding efforts to monitor and protect artistic freedom across Africa.
In Phase One, PANAF made significant strides in promoting artistic freedom, publishing eight detailed reports on legal and institutional frameworks. These reports provided recommendations and formed the foundation for PANAF’s advocacy efforts. The creation of a dedicated resource website allowed artists and cultural professionals to report violations, engage in discussions, and share socially conscious content. Gender equity was a major focus, with commissioned articles on women in the arts and profiles of advocacy-driven artists.
“We are grateful to the Swedish Arts Council for their continued support, which has been instrumental in advancing art on the continent, especially in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Mozambique, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and The Gambia,” said Selam Executive Director, Teshome Wondimu. “This renewed partnership marks an exciting new chapter for PANAF, and we are optimistic about the succes