PRESS RELEASE BY THE MINISTRY FOR CULTURE, LANDS AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND THE PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARIAT FOR YOUTH, RESEARCH AND INNOVATION

New financial support for 42 organisations through the funding scheme for youth cultural organisations participating in Carnival 2026

The Ministry for Culture, Lands, and Local Government, together with the Parliamentary Secretariat for Youth, Research and Innovation, in collaboration with Aġenzija Żgħażagħ and Festivals Malta, granted financial support of €160,000 to 42 cultural organisations through a new Funding Scheme for Youth Cultural Organisations Participating in Carnival 2026.

This ceremony is a testament to the Government's commitment to continue strengthening youth involvement in the Maltese Carnival, while promoting creativity, cultural identity, and artistic expression in an inclusive and sustainable manner.

The funds allocated through this scheme are being distributed among the beneficiary organisations to facilitate the production of costumes, dance, music, and other artistic elements linked to Carnival 2026. This assistance is allowing the organisations to continue investing in quality, innovation, and local talent.

Minister for Culture, Lands, and Local Government Owen Bonnici stated that this new scheme is a clear confirmation of the value Carnival holds as one of the primary cultural and community expressions. Minister Bonnici stated that Carnival unites generations, strengthens Maltese identity, and creates a space where art, tradition, and innovation meet. He thanked the organisers, volunteers, and artists for their tireless work, and emphasized the Government's commitment to continue investing in culture.

Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research and Innovation Keith Azzopardi Tanti emphasized the importance of providing youth with the tools and resources to continue innovating. He reiterated that, “This ceremony confirms our confidence in our youth and their ability to deliver fresh ideas and a modern vision to a tradition that has been with us for generations. The support being given today is an investment in their creativity, in our cultural identity, and in the future of the Maltese Carnival."

On his part, the President of the Carnival Participating Organizations, Clint Axisa, thanked the authorities for their continuous support and acknowledged the work of all organisations involved. “Carnival is the fruit of collective work carried out throughout the year by volunteers, artists, and committed youth. This scheme and today's ceremony give a strong boost to the organisations to continue improving their artistic and organisational standards, while keeping alive a tradition that is an essential part of Maltese identity," stated Mr Axisa.

Through this initiative, the Government continues to confirm its commitment to strengthening the country's cultural ecosystem, supporting voluntary work, and creating more opportunities for the active participation of youth in national cultural events of great importance such as Carnival.

Photos (DOI/MCLG-MEYR_PS)