Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts, Entertainment Hub
THE National Arts Council of Zimbabwe has warned unlicensed arts promoters to regularise their operations, citing growing concerns over public safety, exploitation of artistes and audiences, and the reputational damage caused by poorly organised events.
NACZ stated that promoters operating outside the law are undermining the creative sector through inadequate security arrangements, misleading advertisements, cancelled shows, and a failure to pay artists.
It warned that it will work in conjunction with the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) to identify and prosecute those hosting events without valid licences. In an official statement, the NACZ reiterated that it is illegal for promoters to organise public entertainment events without valid documentation.
“The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe has noted with great concern the ongoing hosting of public activities and performances by promoters without valid licences,” reads part of the statement.
“This practice is a direct violation of the law and will not be tolerated. In terms of Statutory Instrument 87 of 2006, Section 13, Subsection 4, the NACZ is empowered to licence promoters. No promoter, corporate or commercial entity, event organiser or organisation organising and running commercial events may hold a public entertainment event without a valid NACZ promoters’ licence.”
The council emphasised that operating outside the law compromises public safety and undermines the integrity of the creative sector.
The enforcement drive is intended to curb unfair competition, revenue leakages, and the tarnishing of the industry’s image.
According to the regulatory body, poorly managed events characterised by inadequate security and a lack of emergency medical services have become a major issue.
In recent months, several public gatherings have been marred by violence, resulting in property destruction and disorderly scenes.
NACZ also highlighted a rise in misleading advertisements and poorly planned events that leave fans financially disadvantaged.
