BASATA cautions artists against conducting activities without valid permits

DAR ES SALAAM: THE National Arts Council (BASATA) has warned artists and arts stakeholders against conducting artistic activities without valid permits, saying violators risk fines of up to 10m/-.

The warning comes as BASATA has released a list of artists and arts stakeholders whose permits remain valid, directing event organisers and other players in the arts sector to engage only individuals and stakeholders appearing on the approved list.

According to information released by Council, the list has been published on its website following its mandate under Regulation 18 (1) and (2) of the National Arts Council Regulations, published through Government Notice No. 137 of May 22, 2026.

The regulations empower BASATA to register and formalise artists and arts stakeholders and issue permits for conducting arts activities in Tanzania.

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“Conducting arts activities without registration and a valid permit constitutes an offence under the law. Under Regulation 45 of the National Arts Council Regulations, offenders may be fined not less than 1m/- and not more than 10m/-,” BASATA stated.

However, some of the prominent artists who appear on the BASATA  list proving they have licenced are, Chid Benzy, Khadija Kopa, Daz Baba, Jay Melody, Kusah, Dogo Janja and Isha Mashauzi.

Others are, Ali Kiba, Diamond Platnumz, Mzee Yusuf, Lady Jaydee, Ramadhani Brother.

The list of over a thousand registered artists also featured gospel groups including, Rose Muhando, Christina Shusho and Essence of Worship.

Moreover, The Council urged artists and arts stakeholders to comply with laws, regulations and procedures governing the arts sector, while calling on event organisers and other industry players to verify the validity of permits before engaging artists or other service providers.