The new Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, will donate his starting salary of more than R2 million.
South Africa's new minister has been loud and clear since replacing the corrupt and accused Zizi Kodwa.
Gayton was touched by the plight faced by artists in Kagiso, West Rand.
“I couldn't believe that we've managed to keep this gallery open despite all the obstacles. One woman told me that sometimes she has to accept any price for her work because she doesn't have the money for a taxi home after going to different markets. It's a really heartbreaking afternoon for me,” he said.
“These artists have been treated with contempt despite mentoring many young people and keeping them off the streets,” he added.
“The gallery is the second museum in town and even children as young as four visit. I sat with the artists and heard their many worries while they waited for the money to hit their accounts. I saw a mixture of gratitude and tears,” Gayton said.
The minister said he would donate his annual salary to the Joshlyn Smith Foundation, which is registered to support missing children.
“Lawyers are in the final stages of registering the foundation,” he said.
“I have already received my first salary but it will not be paid until the foundation is set up. I have instructed my lawyer to pay my salary to the museum,” he added.