​Thembisa Shologu
The Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture, and Recreation (SACR) is committed to creating an ideal environment for sports, culture, and creative industries to thrive.
The COVID-19 pandemic has been felt by the creatives whose jobs were put on hold as lockdown ended public gatherings such as festivals, concerts and performances - preventing many from earning a living. 
Through the Cultural and Creative Industries programme, MEC Mbali Hlophe said the department will harness the spirit of creativity in communities to make it a catalyst for economic development and growth.
With a budget allocation of R1.097 billion for the 2022/23 financial year, Hlophe said the goal is to build a diverse, united community where all citizens can contribute to building a better South Africa, given the spiral of attacks against foreign nationals. 
"We must continue to defend these gains against the emergence of negative tendencies by advocating for social cohesion, nation-building, and unity in diversity. For this purpose, the department will allocate a R1,44 million budget to conduct community conversations and dialogues across the province," said Hlophe.
About R20 million will be used to raise awareness and consciousness on the national anthem, flag, constitution and national symbols through commemoration of national days.
Hlope added that the department has allocated R8 million to support Gauteng-based PSL teams and National First Division teams and R2,4 million to strengthen Elite Women's Football. 
Furthermore, the department intends to revive the historical school sports program through the introduction of the Wednesday Integrated School Programme which has been allocated more than R21 million. 
The programme will introduce new sporting codes, such as horse racing, skateboarding, rowing, canoeing, golf, and equestrian sport. 
The Hanyani Wellness Program has been allocated a budget of R9,5 million to inculcate a healthy lifestyle amongst Gauteng residents.