Speeches
Graduation Ceremony for Malian Artists Involved in the Production in the Radio Drama Series “Sous un Meme Soleil”
Speech of Ambassador Gillian Milovanovic
January 30, 2009
It is a pleasure and honor to join you today for this ceremony celebrating the remarkable collaboration between the Conservatoire de Musiques et d’Arts Dramatiques de Casablanca and the group of Malian artists that has joined us here today. I understand that the challenge that was given to you – namely, the production of 270 episodes of a radio series drama in four separate languages -- was immense. Thank you for rising to the challenge and for making all of the different partners in this effort proud.
The decision of the United States government to fund such a program was based on our belief in two key issues – namely, the power of radio as a development tool and the unifying force of culture.
Mali is renowned for having one of the most prolific networks of community radio stations on the continent. These radio stations, many of which have received support from USAID, play a critical role in the development of their local communities, providing key information to their listeners on areas as diverse as politics, entertainment, and education. Traditional Malian griots have long mastered the art of teaching through entertainment; the modern day use of radio and television serial dramas to do the same is a natural evolution of this same practice. The radio series “Sous un Meme Soleil” created, acted and produced by the talented people before us was commissioned to provide information on health, education, tolerance and conflict resolution to Malians around the country. The fact that it has been translated into four local languages is an additional innovation that is sure to bring these messages more effectively to the listeners.
Mali, like the United States, is a land of many different ethnicities. Like the United States, it is also a country whose different ethnicities are united not only by a common history, but also by a common culture of tolerance and peace. Malian artists play an important role in promoting these ideals and it is a special honor for me today to salute you. Your participation in this project has again proven that we become stronger when united under a single common purpose. Thank you for your collaboration and your talent.
Before we begin to hand out the certificates, I would like to thank you, the Director du Conservatoire de Musiques et d’Arts Dramatiques de Casablanca, for your presence here today and for your invaluable support for this project. My thanks also to the artistic director, Kader Rhanime, for his energy and leadership, without which this project and today’s ceremony would not be possible. I look forward, with all of you, to hearing the fruits of your important labor around Mali in the months to come.
Thank you.
