HUYE – The Governor of Southern Province  Fidèle Ndayisaba has called upon artists to be more innovative by adding more value to their work in order to attract more buyers.

The Governor said the remarks while officiating at an artist provincial competition organised by the Ministry of Trade and Industry last week.

"You have to improve on the quality of your work, but also put into consideration the time you spend on your work. We need quality products produced in record time,” the Governor said.

The artists cited limited market for their products as forming some of the challenges they face.

"We struggle to entice local buyers with messages appealing directly to them but very few buy our products,” said Fabien Akimana, a 20-year old painter from Muhanga district.

Akimana said that he was comfortable with his work despite the challenges. He revealed that a similar competition held in 2008 earned him Rwf600,000 in cash prize.

Celestin Nizeyimana, 24, one of winners said the recognition of his efforts was a motivational factor to produce many more master pieces in the future.

"This is the first time I’m being rewarded for my efforts; I believe there is more yet to come from my work,” said Nizeyimana.

The winners were given cash prizes of Rwf100,000, and medals. They will go on to represent the province at national level competition slated for later this year.

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