The Malawi Censorship Board has lamented some artists’ tendency of ignoring entertainment regulations. It also lists event organisers, the general public and other stakeholders among the culprits.
Deputy Director of Arts responsible for censorship, Anganile Nthakomwa, said on Monday that there was a need for players in the creative industry and other stakeholders to adhere to public entertainment regulations.
“This is crucial in a country because it is aimed at ensuring safe, lawful and enjoyable experiences for all. But we have seen events being held in poor places. We want to change this narrative,” Nthakomwa said.
She observed that most of the event organisers stage events without permits.
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“For some [stakeholders], it is out of ignorance but for others, it is just non-compliance. Very few come for permits; otherwise, we have to actually look for them when they post their events in different platforms,” Nthakomwa said.
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She admitted that there was a need for the board to step up efforts and make sure that players and the general public comply with public entertainment regulations. “We can say that public engagement had slackened a bit.
We need periodic reminders and engagements with the public and stakeholders,” Nthakomwa said. Meanwhile, the Censorship Board has released a statement calling upon players and stakeholders to obtain permits whenever hosting events.
The board regulates public entertainment through the issuance of entertainment permits, theatre licences, film shooting permits, film classification certificates where different grades are assigned for parental control and age restriction and premises classification for film shops and mobile film vendors.
The statement says all public entertainment events must obtain necessary permits.
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“We have entertainment permit, public theatre licences, premise licences, film shooting and making permit, film classification and public screening of films,” she said.
Nthakomwa said violators may face penalties, permit, licence revocation or legal action under the Censorship and Control of Entertainment Act.
“It is the wish of the Malawi Censorship Board that all public entertainment activities flourish and artists prosper but within the required legal framework,” she said. She added that creative works should be created and used responsibly.
“Together, we can maintain a vibrant yet responsible entertainment environment. We know others are not aware but let us engage.
“These regulations are there to examine the suitability to Malawi’s socio-cultural values, ensure safety of patrons, protect minors from harmful/corruptive content,” Nthakomwa said.
