1.5.8.1 Statutory Instrument 136 of 2003
This piece of legislation allows artists to import musical, broadcasting,
recording and public address systems enjoying exemption from tax. This has
over the years changed the face of the arts and culture in Zimbabwe as it has
led to growth of television programmes, theatre, films and music. However,
there are still other arts and culture sectors that would like to enjoy the same
privileges. For instance, on equality basis, those who express themselves
through motion pictures and or photography would expect that their respective
equipment (cameras and film accessories) must also be exempt from import
tax.
This legislation has the effect of promoting artistic expression in that artists get
rebates or tax exemption in a way that enables them to obtain the means
(equipment) through which the freedom is exercised both as a right or to
facilitate professional growth. Whether or not this law is being applied in the
wake of pressing budgetary deficits is something that needs to be monitored.
1.5.8.2 Statutory Instrument 87 of 2006 as amended by SI 166 of
2009 (NACZ General Regulations)
The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (General) Regulations of 2006 (NACZ
Regulations) were enabled for enactment by Section 13 of the National Arts
Council of Zimbabwe Act apparently to provide for matters connected to the
registration of arts promoters and organisations. The Regulations also provide
for fees and levies payable in the registration process. The Amendment (SI 166
of 2009) mainly updates fees and levies from the abandoned national currency
to the USD. The Regulations also provide for penalties for contravention of any
penal provisions of SI 87 of 2006.
Areas of concern
On account of its narrow scope, SI 87 of 2006 has a couple of provisions that,
at face value, are harmless, but have a substantive negative effect on the
realisation of artistic freedom by arts promoters and organizations, and artists
by extension.
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