Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa has affirmed the government's unwavering commitment to promoting and strengthening the arts sector, recognizing it as a formal contributor to Tanzania's economy.
Speaking on Sunday, April 13, 2025, during the National Forum of the Association of Event Hosts of Tanzania at Olasiti Garden in Arusha, the Prime Minister emphasized that the emceeing profession is an essential part of the creative economy.
“This profession is not just about entertainment it’s an economic activity,” he said. “That is why President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan approved the establishment of the Culture and Arts Fund, which provides loans of up to TSh 100 million to artists, including emcees, to support them in capital growth and acquiring equipment.”
Mr. Majaliwa also highlighted the government's reforms in intellectual property protection. “Through the amendment of the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Act of 1999, revised in 2022, a copyright levy was introduced. Sixty percent of the collected revenue is directly allocated to artists, while an additional ten percent is distributed through the Culture and Arts Fund.”
Looking ahead, he announced that the government plans to build an International Arts and Sports Arena at a cost of TSh 300 billion.
“This visionary project reflects President Samia’s deep commitment to the development of the arts and sports sectors.”
The Prime Minister directed the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports through the National Arts Council (BASATA) to collaborate with the Kisima cha Mafanikio Association in developing professional guidelines, training programs, and a formal recognition system for emcees nationwide.
He also called upon the National Kiswahili Council (BAKITA) to continue its partnership with Kisima cha Mafanikio in promoting the proper use of Kiswahili in public platforms.
“The government values the work of Kisima cha Mafanikio. Your efforts are fundamental, sensitive, and significantly impactful to national development,” Mr. Majaliwa said.
On his part, the Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Professor Palamagamba Kabudi, praised President Samia for her visionary leadership and commitment to empowering Tanzanians by nurturing their talents and professional skills across different creative industries, including emceeing and event management.
“Her Excellency President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan has been at the forefront of supporting talent, ensuring that every skill has the space to grow and contribute meaningfully just as we see here with members of Kisima cha Mafanikio,” said Prof. Kabudi.
Ester Kimweri, Chairperson of the Association, commended the Sixth Phase Government for its patriotism and efforts to uplift the creative sector.
“As stakeholders, we are committed to supporting these national efforts by educating, inspiring, entertaining, and teaching our communities. We will continue to respect the law, protect public property, and participate in community development initiatives,” she said.