Why the Creative Economy Matters: KWANDE FEST’s Role in KZN’s Growth Story

Creativity as a Catalyst for Growth

Across the globe, the creative economy is proving to be one of the fastest-growing sectors — and KwaZulu-Natal is taking the lead. At the heart of this transformation stands KWANDE FEST, a flagship platform developed by EDTEA to reignite the province’s creative and cultural industries after the disruptions of COVID-19.

Built on Six Pillars of Progress

The festival is built on six guiding pillars — Knowledge, Wisdom, Advisory, Nurturing, Development, and Entrepreneurship — that shape how creativity fuels sustainable economic growth. These pillars turn ideas into strategy, passion into purpose, and innovation into impact.

A Vision for the Future

More than an annual event, KWANDE FEST represents a vision: a KwaZulu-Natal where creators, innovators, and entrepreneurs thrive in a connected ecosystem that merges culture, business, and technology.

The message is clear — the future belongs to those who create it. KWANDE FEST continues to empower the next generation of thinkers, makers, and leaders, driving KZN toward a bold, innovation-driven future.