By: Eranivey Temani & Andrew Mkonda

Lilongwe, April 9, Mana: Malawi Censorship Board (MCB), has called-on artists, creators, artistic event organizers, the general public and all other relevant stakeholders to adhere to public entertainment regulations prevailing in the country in order to ensure safe, lawful, and enjoyable experiences for all.

Speaking in an interview with Malawi News Agency (Mana) on Wednesday, MCB Deputy Director, Anganile Nthakomwa, said all entertainment events are supposed to obtain the necessary permits from the MCB before going to the general public.

“We want people to get permits before going out to the general public to ensure compliance on standards for content, as well as for safety and security measures. The Organizers must also ensure crowd control, emergency exits, and adequate security personnel, compliance with fire safety and health protocols is mandatory.

“And as part of enforcing standards on content, some forms of public entertainment may require enforcement of age restrictions. For instance, minors are prohibited from attending adult-rated entertainment,” she said.

Nthakomwa further said in line with the regulations for films, all filmmakers, distributors, exhibitors, content creators are supposed to apply for a film making permit before the actual shooting of the film saying it is against the law to screen unclassified films.

Speaking in a separate interview, President of Musicians Union of Malawi, Vita Chirwa, said it is very crucial to uphold national laws and standards in the creative and entertainment sectors.

“For the musicians and event organizers, this will enhance professionalism and accountability as it will ensure that performances are safe, respectful and well-managed. This initiative will also protect artists from legal issues and enhance their credibility,” he said.

Chirwa said the Union will engage with MCB through consultative meetings, joint awareness campaigns, and capacity building initiatives to ensure artists and event organizers are well informed about content standards and licensing requirements.

The Malawi Censorship Board which is 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.