Why the NYDA's support for the Scorpion Kings Matters

The NYDA’s Support of the Scorpion Kings and the Music Industry

Over the weekend, the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) backed the highly anticipated concert of the Scorpion Kings, a powerhouse duo consisting of Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa. The event, which was a resounding success, brought together thousands of fans and showcased the immense talent that the South African music industry, particularly genres like Amapiano, has to offer.

However, while many saw this as a positive step forward, a wave of negative comments has surfaced in response to the NYDA’s support. Some argue that the agency's resources could have been better allocated elsewhere, but I believe the NYDA’s backing of this concert was not only justified but necessary.

The NYDA’s Mandate and Its Role in Supporting Youth-Led Sectors

The NYDA’s primary mandate is to foster youth development and create opportunities for young people, particularly in fields such as education, entrepreneurship, and employment. In a country where youth unemployment rates remain shockingly high, institutions like the NYDA are tasked with making strategic investments in sectors that provide young people with sustainable career opportunities.

The creative industries, particularly music, have proven to be one of the few sectors in South Africa that can provide young talent with both a platform to express themselves and a livelihood. The Amapiano genre, in particular, has gained global recognition, making artists like Kabza and Maphorisa not only local icons but international ambassadors of South African culture. In this context, the NYDA's decision to support the Scorpion Kings’ concert was not an act of favouritism but rather an acknowledgement of the economic and cultural importance of the music industry, especially genres that are often sidelined by traditional funding structures. Amapiano, despite its massive popularity, has frequently been overlooked by both governmental and institutional funders. The NYDA’s involvement, therefore, served as a crucial intervention to address this disparity.

The Criticism: A Lack of Understanding?

Critics of the NYDA’s support for the Scorpion Kings argue that the agency should focus on more traditional forms of youth development, such as education and vocational training, rather than backing large-scale concerts. Some also suggest that the support of mainstream, commercial music events could result in less funding for “underdog” genres or less commercialised artists.

While these concerns have merit in a broader debate about resource allocation, they miss a critical point: music, especially genres like Amapiano, is integral to the youth culture in South Africa. This is not just an entertainment industry; it’s an economic force that provides countless job opportunities. From producers and sound engineers to event planners and marketers, the success of such concerts directly impacts the livelihoods of many young people. The concert held by the Scorpion Kings wasn’t just about the artists on stage—it also benefited the support staff, local vendors, and service providers, many of whom rely on such events for their income. The broader community of South African youth working in the entertainment industry was able to earn a living thanks to the event's success.

This is a crucial aspect that critics often overlook: the concert provided a means of sustenance for many in the entertainment industry, especially those who work behind the scenes. By supporting this initiative, the NYDA helped generate income and economic activity that extends far beyond the artists themselves. From sound engineers to security personnel, the ripple effects of this event were felt throughout the local economy.

A Platform for Young Talent

A major benefit of the NYDA's support for the Scorpion Kings' concert was the platform it provided for emerging artists. Amapiano, which originated in South Africa’s townships, has become a global phenomenon, with international artists from Europe, Asia, and even North America jumping on the bandwagon. However, it is still an industry dominated by a relatively small number of big names. Concerts like the one supported by the NYDA offer young, lesser-known artists an opportunity to perform alongside industry giants, thereby gaining exposure and credibility.

For young artists still struggling to find their footing in the competitive South African music scene, being associated with a high-profile event like the Scorpion Kings' concert could be the break they need. Additionally, such events enable young performers to network with industry professionals and develop relationships that could lead to future collaborations or opportunities. Without institutional support, these kinds of career-launching moments would remain out of reach for most up-and-coming talent.

The Economic Impact Beyond Music

While much of the debate focuses on the cultural impact of music, it’s essential to recognise the broader economic value of the entertainment sector. According to various studies, the creative industries in South Africa are worth billions of rand, providing significant contributions to the country's GDP. Events like this concert serve as critical touchpoints for the larger economy, as they drive tourism, local spending, and job creation. Supporting such an event not only uplifts the music community but also contributes to the broader national economy.

The NYDA’s support, therefore, was an investment—not just in the music industry but in South Africa's future economic potential. Moving forward, the NYDA should aim to strike a balance. Yes, supporting large-scale, commercially successful concerts like the Scorpion Kings’ event is important, but it should not overshadow the needs of smaller or emerging artists who also require access to resources, platforms, and funding.

A Step in the Right Direction

The NYDA’s support for the Scorpion Kings and their monumental concert was, in my view, a necessary and strategic decision. By investing in an industry that provides both cultural and economic value to South Africa, the agency demonstrated its commitment to supporting the youth and promoting economic growth. While critics may raise valid points about how resources are allocated, the benefits of such support—both in terms of job creation and empowerment of young talent—cannot be ignored.If anything, the NYDA’s involvement in this event highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of youth development. It's not just about education or traditional careers—it’s about embracing all the ways young people contribute to the economy, culture, and society. The NYDA has set a precedent for supporting young creatives, and the broader music industry is better for it.

*Mayalo is an independent writer. The views expressed are not necessarily those of IOL or Independent Media