Online Reporter
Maria Chiguvari
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) is set to revise the current licence fee structure, following a meeting with promoters who have been vocal about the unsustainable costs associated with hosting live events.
According to some promoters, the current fees are crippling, as they are required to shell out US$1850 to register with NACZ, followed by an annual renewal fee of US$1750.
Additionally, promoters are charged a 15 percent tax on an artist’s fee, a minimum of US$1000 per show, US$250 to the Zimbabwe Censorship Board and US$500 to the Department of Immigration for international acts’ clearance.In an interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, NACZ spokesperson and marketing manager Agga Nyabinde said NACZ acknowledged the concerns and was currently working on revising the fees to make them more industry friendly.
“Apparently, the rates have been in existence, and we had a meeting with promoters, and we’re expecting the fees to be revised. These fees are statutory because it is not NACZ that sets them; they are approved at Cabinet level, and they have been like this for years. We are also expecting these fees to be reduced,” Nyabinde pointed out. Stakeholders feel these fees are crippling the live entertainment sector and limiting its potential to contribute meaningfully to the national economy.
“The amount of money we pay to various authorities is simply too much. This is why show tickets are expensive. Promoters are forced to pass on the costs to consumers to recover flights, hotel bookings, artist fees, and government charges,” said a local promoter who preferred anonymity.
NACZ is currently facing backlash on social media, with users questioning the value of registration and the council’s role in supporting artists.
“I find it interesting that the National Arts Council wants registration from churches, studios and artists. Out of curiosity, what do they offer the artists and organisations? For example, Tatenda Pinjisi was an artist, and Gary Mapanzure was an artist. Did the (National) Arts Council show up for them or their families in times of need? How does the NACZ model work?” said a social media user.
