Malawi Censorship Board has warned artists and event organisers against holding events in violation of regulations.
The board says it has observed that a number of entertainment events, including festivals, film screening, and concerts are held without following required legal procedures.
In a statement issued this week, the board said it has noted a trend where event organisers and creatives are by-passing regulations, putting public safety and cultural values at risk.
The statement, released through the Ministry of Local Government, Unity and Culture, is reminding stakeholders of the need to adhere to the Censorship and Control of Entertainments Act of 1968.
Speaking in an interview, deputy director of arts responsible for censorship Anganile Nthakomwa said the increase in entertainment activities is welcome, but some organisers operate outside the law by failing to obtain necessary permits for their activities.
“Some of them may be new and simply unaware, but there are others who are deliberately avoiding the procedures,”
“Every public entertainment activity, including festivals, fashion shows, stage plays, and music events, must be vetted and approved to ensure safety and compliance with Malawi’s socio-cultural values,” she said.
Nthakomwa also said besides having the events complying with procedures the venues hosting them should also be licensed.
“Spaces need to be inspected for things like sanitation facilities, emergency exits, car parks, and overall safety. If anything goes wrong, lack of compliance can have serious consequences,” she said.
Nthakomwa also raised concern over minors being allowed at adult-themed events which is a direct violation of classification guidelines designed to protect children from harmful or inappropriate content.
“Some forms of public entertainment may require enforcement of age restrictions. Minors are prohibited from attending adult-rated entertainment. Organisers must take responsibility of such,” she said.
The same rules, Nthakomwa said, apply to film producers, music video creators, and even audio content producers. All works intended for public consumption must go through the board for approval and classification.
The statement warned that failure to comply may result in penalties, permit revocation, or legal action.
Ministry of Local Government, Unity and Culture spokesperson Anjoya Mwanza said enforcement of these regulations is essential to ensure that entertainment activities respect national values and safeguard citizens.
“The ministry wants to see the arts thrive, but it must happen within a legal and culturally appropriate framework. This is why it is important that key stakeholders comply to regulations,” she said.
Mwanza also encouraged players in the creative industry to engage with the board proactively and responsibly to maintain a safe and law-abiding entertainment environment.
The Malawi Censorship Board, which falls under the Ministry of Local Government, Unity and Culture, was established to regulate films (the importation, production, dissemination of undesirable films, publications and similar materials); public entertainment performances and facilities.
It draws its mandate from the Censorship and Control of Entertainments Act of 1968.
