The Films and Stage Plays Act

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CHAPTER 230
THE FILMS AND STAGE PLAYS ACT
[PRINCIPAL LEGISLATION]
Arrangement of Sections
Section Title
part i
PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS
1. Short title.
2. Interpretation.
part ii
MAKING OF FILMS
3. No film to be made without permit.
4. Application for film permit.
5. Film permit.
6. Alterations and additions to films.
7. Requirement for foreign production company.
8. Offences under Part II.
9. Power to exempt films.
part iii
LICENSING OF THEATRES
10. Appointment of licensing authorities.
11. Theatre licences.
12. Supervision to ensure safety.
13. Power to exempt premises.
part iv
EXHIBITION OF FILMS
14. Establishment of Tanzania Film Board and Regional Film Committee.
15. Functions of Board.
16. Restriction on exhibitions.
17. Restriction on display of posters.
18. Application for certificate of approval.
19. Certificate of approval.
20. Validity of certificate of approval.

Restriction on display of posters.
18. Application for certificate of approval.
19. Certificate of approval.
20. Validity of certificate of approval.

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550
21. Effect of adding matter to film after its approval.
22. Review of decision of Board.
part v
REGULATION OF STAGE PLAY PERFORMANCES
23. Appointment of stage play authorities.
24. Restriction on performances of stage plays.
25. Application for certificate of approval.
26. Certificate of approval.
27. Effect of failing to alter play, or of adding matter.
28. Power to exempt stage plays.
part vi
MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
29. Appointment of Secretary of Board.
30. Power of Minister to give directions to Board committees and
stage plays authorities.
31. Revocation of licences, etc., by Minister.
32. Power of Board to establish committees and to delegate.
33. Profit returns.
34. Minister may delegate his functions.
35. Power of entry, etc.
36. Penalty.
37. Offences by corporations, societies, etc.
38. Appeals.
39. Repeal and savings.
40. Regulations.

s functions.
35. Power of entry, etc.
36. Penalty.
37. Offences by corporations, societies, etc.
38. Appeals.
39. Repeal and savings.
40. Regulations.

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PART I
PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS
1. This Act may be cited as the Films and Stage Plays Act. 2. In this Act, unless the context requires otherwise-
“admitted” means admitted, whether on payment,
gratuitously or by invitation;
“amateur” means a person who makes films for his own
entertainment and without expectation or hope of reward
for the making of the films;
“Board” means the Tanzania Film Board;
“certificate of approval” means a certificate granted under
this Act for the public exhibition of a film or for the
public display of posters or for the public performance of
a stage play;
“cinematograph picture” means any picture whether with
sound effects or not, made by means of a cinematograph
or other similar apparatus;
Short title
Interpretation
Act No. 9 of 2019 ss. 19
and 20
GN. No.

sound effects or not, made by means of a cinematograph
or other similar apparatus;
Short title
Interpretation
Act No. 9 of 2019 ss. 19
and 20
GN. No.

615 of 2019
CHAPTER 230
THE FILMS AND STAGE PLAYS ACT
An Act to replace the Cinematograph Ordinance; to provide for regulating
the making of cinematograph films, exhibiting of cinematograph pictures
and performance of stage plays and for the licensing of theatres and to
provide for related matters. [1st July, 1984]
[GN. No. 140 of 1984]
Acts Nos. 4 of 1976
7 of 1982
10 of 2013
9 of 2019
GN. No. 615 of 2019

tres and to
provide for related matters. [1st July, 1984]
[GN. No. 140 of 1984]
Acts Nos. 4 of 1976
7 of 1982
10 of 2013
9 of 2019
GN. No. 615 of 2019

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nia. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE FILMS AND STAGE PLAYS ACT [CAP. 230 R.E.

2023]
552
“classification and certification” means a motion picture
content rating system designated to classify films with
regard to suitability for audiences in terms of issues such
as sex, violence, substance abuse, profanity, impudence
or other type of mature content;
“exhibit” means give or make, or cause or permit to be given
or made, or take part or assist in the giving or making of,
any exhibition;
“exhibition” means the projection of a cinematograph picture
and includes the production of any music or other sound
effect whatsoever which accompanies the projection;
“film” means a cinematograph film and includes any
commentary, wherever spoken and whether the person
speaking appears in the film or not, and any music or
other sound effect whatsoever, associated with the film,
and any part of a film;
“film association” means any group, network or federation
dealing with matters related to film and stage plays;
“film industry” means the technological and commercial
institutions of film making, film production companies,
film studios, filming and photographic agents and fixers,
cinematography, animation, film product, screen writing,
pre-production, film festivals, distribution and actors,
film directors and other film crew personnel;
“film permit” means a permit to make the film of a
cinematograph picture;
“making of a film” means the act of photographing, performing
or otherwise taking part in or arranging any scenes or
episodes for the purpose of the production of a film;
“Minister” means the Minister responsible for matters
relating to films and stage plays;
“poster” means any poster or other advertisement advertising
a film or exhibition;
“public exhibition” and “public performance” means an
exhibition and a performance respectively to which the
public are admitted;

film or exhibition;
“public exhibition” and “public performance” means an
exhibition and a performance respectively to which the
public are admitted;

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THE FILMS AND STAGE PLAYS ACT [CAP. 230 R.E. 2023]
“Regional Film Committee” means a Regional Film
Committee established under section 14;
“stage play” means tragedy, comedy, farce, opera,
barletta, interlude, melodrama, revue, pantomime,
dialogue, prologue, epilogue and every other dramatic
entertainment and any part thereof;
“Tanzania Film Board” means the Tanzania Film Board
appointed under section 14;
“theatre” means any building, premise, venue, video
exhibition centres or place at which a film is publicly
exhibited or a stage play is publicly performed;
“theatre licence” means a licence to use a place as a theatre. PART II
MAKING OF FILMS
3.–(1) Subject to the provisions of subsection (2) of this
section and of section 9 of this Act, no person shall direct, or
take part or assist in the making of a film, whether intended for
exhibition or sale either within or outside Mainland Tanzania
except under and in accordance with the terms and conditions
of a film permit granted by the Minister under this Part.

in or outside Mainland Tanzania
except under and in accordance with the terms and conditions
of a film permit granted by the Minister under this Part.

(2) A film permit shall not be necessary for the making of a
film by an amateur for private exhibition to his family and his
friends. 4.–(1) Every application for a film permit shall be made to
the Minister in writing and shall be accompanied by a full
description of the scenes and a synopsis of the spoken parts, if
any, of the entire film to be made, notwithstanding that part of
the film is made or is to be made outside the United Republic:
Provided that, the Minister may in his discretion in any
particular case accept an application notwithstanding that
it is not accompanied by such description and synopsis if he
has been given such other information as he requires for the
determination of the application. No film to be
made without
permit
Application for
film permit

en given such other information as he requires for the
determination of the application. No film to be
made without
permit
Application for
film permit

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554
(2) Where any title, subtitle, text, description, synopsis or
other part of the film is in a language other than Swahili or
English the Minister may require a translation thereof into
Swahili or English, certified to his satisfaction, or may submit
the same for the examination and report of such person or
persons as he may appoint for the purpose. (3) Where the film is to include any scenes likely to endanger
the safety of any person or property or in which animals are to
be photographed, the applicant shall state in his application
the precautions proposed to be taken to preserve the safety of
any such person or property, or to prevent cruelty or suffering
to such animals. 5.–(1) The Minister may, in his discretion, grant or refuse
to grant a film permit for which application has been made
under this Act, or may issue it subject to the observance of any
regulations made under this Act, or to such special conditions
and restrictions to be specified in such permit as he may deem
fit.

e observance of any
regulations made under this Act, or to such special conditions
and restrictions to be specified in such permit as he may deem
fit.

(2) Before granting a film permit the Minister may require
the applicant to enter into a bond with or without sureties in
such sum as the Minister may require to secure that film, so far
as it is made, subject to any regulations, or special conditions
made by the Minister under subsection (1) and in accordance
with the description, synopsis and other information supplied
to the Minister, together with any alterations and additions for
which permission has been granted under section 6 of this Act. (3) The Minister may also require as a condition of the
grant of a film permit that a public officer duly authorised
in that behalf shall be present at the making of the film or
any part thereof, and further that any such officer may, in
the exercise of his discretion having regard to any special or
general directions issued to him, intervene to stop the making
of any scene which in his opinion is objectionable or endangers
the safety of any person or of any property not being in the
possession or disposition of the maker of the film or which
is cruel or causes suffering to any animal and, in the event of
Film permit

t being in the
possession or disposition of the maker of the film or which
is cruel or causes suffering to any animal and, in the event of
Film permit

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.555
THE FILMS AND STAGE PLAYS ACT [CAP. 230 R.E. 2023]
any such intervention, every such officer is hereby authorised
to use such reasonable force as in the circumstances may be
necessary to stop the making of the scene. (4) Where a public officer intervenes to stop the making of a
film, he shall forthwith notify the Minister of such intervention
and the reasons therefor, and the Minister may either permit
the making of the film to be resumed or, having first given the
holder of the film permit an opportunity of being heard, permit
the making of the film to be resumed on such conditions as he
may deem fit or refuse to permit the making of the film to be
resumed.

ing heard, permit
the making of the film to be resumed on such conditions as he
may deem fit or refuse to permit the making of the film to be
resumed.

6.–(1) Where it is desired to make any material alteration
or addition to the text, synopsis or scenes of a film which is
to be made and in respect of which a film permit has been
granted, the holder of the permit shall apply in writing
to the Minister for permission to make the alteration or
addition, and the application shall be accompanied by the
film permit and by particulars of the proposed alterations
and additions and, if the alterations or additions are in a
language other than Swahili or English, and the Minister so
requires, a translation thereof into Swahili or English certified
to the satisfaction of the Minister. (2) The decision of the Minister on the application shall be
endorsed on the film permit and if permission is granted, there
shall also be endorsed any condition which is attached to the
permission.

ion shall be
endorsed on the film permit and if permission is granted, there
shall also be endorsed any condition which is attached to the
permission.

7.–(1) Any foreign production company or individual using
Tanzania Mainland scene, content and location for filming the
whole or any part of a film, advertisement, documentary or
program, shall-
(a) submit to the Board raw footage;
(b) acknowledge all physical locations used for filming;
(c) submit a copy of a finished film, advertisement,
documentary or program;
Alterations and
additions to films
Requirement
for foreign
production
company
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 21

hed film, advertisement,
documentary or program;
Alterations and
additions to films
Requirement
for foreign
production
company
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 21

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556
(d) sign a prescribed clearance form before exiting
Mainland Tanzania and submit the same to the Board
or any other authority appointed by the Board; and
(e) grant rights to the Government of Tanzania to use
content for purposes of promoting Mainland Tanzania
and its potential resources, tourism, photographic
location and cultural attraction which are distributed
through public broadcasts, cable programs, sound or
visual recordings or any other digital platform used by
public broadcaster:
Provided that, such use is compatible with fair practice and
that the source and the name of the executive producer and
production company are mentioned in the film, documentary
or advertisement. (2) A person who contravenes the provisions of subsection
(1) shall, on conviction, be liable to a fine of not less than five
percentum of the production cost of the film, advertisement,
documentary or program.

) shall, on conviction, be liable to a fine of not less than five
percentum of the production cost of the film, advertisement,
documentary or program.

(3) Every foreign film producer shall include a public liability
insurance policy and insurance policy in every contract he
signs with actors and crew. (4) A person who contravenes the provisions of subsection
(3) shall, on conviction, be liable to a fine of not less than one
percentum of the production cost of the film. [s. 6A]
8.–(1) Where any film is made in contravention of the
provisions of subsection (1) of section 3 of this Act the
producer, proprietor, promoter and photographer thereof, and
every other person engaged in the making of the film, shall
each commit an offence. (2) Where any film in respect of which a film permit has
been granted is made otherwise than in accordance with
the particulars furnished to the Minister of the alteration or
addition in respect of which permission has been granted by the
Offences under
Part II

the particulars furnished to the Minister of the alteration or
addition in respect of which permission has been granted by the
Offences under
Part II

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THE FILMS AND STAGE PLAYS ACT [CAP. 230 R.E. 2023]
Minister under section 6 of this Act, the producer, proprietor,
promoter and photographer thereof, and every other person
engaged in the making of the film, and, where the holder of
the film permit is not one of the aforesaid persons, such holder
also, shall each commit an offence. (3) A person who obstructs or hinders any public officer in
the exercise of his duties under subsection (3) of section 5 of
this Act commits an offence. [s. 7]
9. The Minister may by notice in the Gazette, exempt from the
provisions of this Part any film or any class of films, generally
or by reference to the person or category of persons making
such film or films. [s. 8]
PART III
LICENSING OF THEATRES
10.–(1) The Minister shall, by notice in the Gazette, appoint any
public officer or designate any department of the Government
or other public institution as a licensing authority for purposes
of this Part, for such areas as he shall specify.

e any department of the Government
or other public institution as a licensing authority for purposes
of this Part, for such areas as he shall specify.

(2) Notwithstanding subsection (1), every township
authority shall be the licensing authority for purposes of this
Part in relation to its area of jurisdiction. [s. 9]
11.–(1) A person shall not use any place as a theatre except
under and in accordance with the terms and conditions of a
theatre licence granted by a licensing authority under this Part. (2) An application for a theatre licence shall be made to the
licensing authority appointed for the area where the premises
are situated. Power to exempt
films
Appointment
of licensing
authorities
Act No. 7 of 1982
3rd Sch. Theatre licences

d for the area where the premises
are situated. Power to exempt
films
Appointment
of licensing
authorities
Act No. 7 of 1982
3rd Sch. Theatre licences

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558
(3) The licensing authority may refuse to grant a theatre
licence or may grant it subject to such terms and conditions as
it may think desirable for the protection of public health and
for the purpose of ensuring the safety of persons attending the
theatre. (4) Where the licensing authority considers that public
health and the safety of persons attending exhibitions or
performances at such theatre are adequately provided for, it
may grant a theatre licence either generally or in respect of
any single exhibition or performance or for such period not
exceeding twelve months as it may think fit. (5) A theatre licence may at any time be revoked by the
licensing authority which granted the licence upon the breach
of any of its terms or conditions or if it shall be made to appear
to the licensing authority that public health is not adequately
protected or that the safety of persons attending the exhibition
or performance is or may be endangered. [s. 10]
12.

t public health is not adequately
protected or that the safety of persons attending the exhibition
or performance is or may be endangered. [s. 10]
12.

A licensing authority may grant a theatre licence upon
condition that the exhibition or performance be conducted
under the superintendence of some officer or person designated
in the licence, and, in such case, it shall be lawful, at any time,
for the officer or person so designated to order such exhibition
or performance to cease or to give any other direction which
he may think necessary for ensuring the safety of the premises
at which the exhibition or performance takes place and of the
persons attending thereat. [s. 11]
13. Notwithstanding the provisions of this Part, a licensing
authority may in writing or by notice in the Gazette, exempt
any premises or class of premises within the area for which it is
the licensing authority from the provisions of the Part. [s. 12]
Supervision to
ensure safety
Power to exempt
premises

within the area for which it is
the licensing authority from the provisions of the Part. [s. 12]
Supervision to
ensure safety
Power to exempt
premises

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THE FILMS AND STAGE PLAYS ACT [CAP. 230 R.E. 2023]
PART IV
EXHIBITION OF FILMS
14.–(1) The Minister shall, by notice in the Gazette, establish a
Tanzania Film Board. (2) The Minister may also establish, by notice in the Gazette,
one or more Regional Film Committee for such area or areas
as he shall specify. (3) The Tanzania Film Board shall have concurrent
jurisdiction with every Regional Film Committee established
under subsection (2). (4) The Tanzania Film Board and every Film Committee
established under this section shall consist of not less than five
and not more than thirty members. (5) Each member of the Tanzania Film Board and Regional
Film Committee shall hold office for such term as the Minister
may determine at the time of his appointment and shall be
eligible for reappointment from time to time on the expiration
of his term of office.

nister
may determine at the time of his appointment and shall be
eligible for reappointment from time to time on the expiration
of his term of office.

(6) Where a member of the Tanzania Film Board and
Regional Film Committee is absent from the United Republic or
is unable to perform his functions for any reason, the Minister
may appoint another person to be a temporary member of the
Board or committee to perform the functions of such person
for the period during which such person is absent or disabled
from acting. (7) The Tanzania Film Board and every Regional Film
Committee shall sit on such occasions and at such places as it
may in its discretion determine. (8) The business of the Tanzania Film Board and Regional
Film Committee shall be conducted in such manner as may be
prescribed:
Provided that, until such procedure has been prescribed
the Tanzania Film Board and Regional Film Committee shall
conduct its business in such manner as it shall determine. [s. 13]
Establishment
of Tanzania
Film Board and
Regional Film
Committee
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 19
GN. No. 615 of 2019

uch manner as it shall determine. [s. 13]
Establishment
of Tanzania
Film Board and
Regional Film
Committee
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 19
GN. No. 615 of 2019

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nia. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE FILMS AND STAGE PLAYS ACT [CAP. 230 R.E.

2023]
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15.–(1) The Board shall have the following functions:
(a) to regulate film industry and stage plays, foreign and
local motion pictures, television, radio and stage plays’
practitioners and dealers, stage plays production and
performances;
(b) to monitor the quality of motion pictures and stage
plays;
(c) to license distribution, exhibition, motion pictures, stage
plays’ exhibition venues, libraries, studios, production
and distribution companies and individuals, online
distribution and exhibition infrastructures;
(d) to accredit, classify and register practitioners and
dealers of motion pictures, television plays, radio plays
and stage plays;
(e) to coordinate and promote development of film sector,
local and international markets, motion picture festivals
and awards, talent identification, talent promotion,
activities and events related to film and stage plays;
(f) to classify and certify motion pictures, video films and
stage plays;
(g) to advise the Government and stakeholders on matters
of or related to the film sector in Mainland Tanzania;
(h) to solicit for opportunities and investments in motion
pictures and stage plays;
(i) to supervise and regulate professionalism, ethics and
etiquettes in the film industry and stage play; and
(j) to perform any other functions related to motion
pictures and stage plays.

onalism, ethics and
etiquettes in the film industry and stage play; and
(j) to perform any other functions related to motion
pictures and stage plays.

(2) Without prejudice to subsection (1), it shall be the duty
of the Tanzania Film Board and every Regional Film committee
to examine every film, and every poster or description thereof,
submitted to it under this Act, with a view to deciding whether,
and if so in what manner, it should be approved for exhibition:
Provided that, and notwithstanding the provision of section
19 of this Act, if the Board so decides, it may approve a film or
poster for exhibition to the public without examining it. Functions of
Board
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 22
GN. No. 615 of 2019

des, it may approve a film or
poster for exhibition to the public without examining it. Functions of
Board
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 22
GN. No. 615 of 2019

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THE FILMS AND STAGE PLAYS ACT [CAP. 230 R.E. 2023]
(3) There shall be film committee established in every
district which shall be established by the Board. (4) The film committee established under subsection (3)
shall perform duties as may be directed by the Board. [s.

h shall be established by the Board. (4) The film committee established under subsection (3)
shall perform duties as may be directed by the Board. [s.

14]
16.–(1) A person shall not, direct or assist or take part in or
permit in any premises under his control or management, an
exhibition of a film unless a certificate of approval in respect
thereof approving the film for such exhibition has been granted
by the Board:
Provided that, a certificate of approval shall not be necessary
for the exhibition of any film-
(a) owned by or issued or shown on behalf of the
Government;
(b) made by an amateur and exhibited privately to his
family and his friends;
(c) solely for the purpose of classification and certification;
and
(d) during and for the purpose of manufacture:
Provided further that, the Board may in its discretion require
any film of the description contained in paragraph (b) or (d) to
be produced before it for censoring and such film shall not be
exhibited after being so required unless and until a certificate
of approval has been granted in respect of such film.

ring and such film shall not be
exhibited after being so required unless and until a certificate
of approval has been granted in respect of such film.

(2) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (1), where
the Minister is of opinion that any film or any class of film,
should not be exhibited at all, that is to say, either publicly or
privately, without a certificate of approval having been issued in
respect thereof, he may, by notice in writing served personally
or by registered post on any person who appears to him to be
likely to exhibit the film or a film of that class, as the case may
be, or by notice in the Gazette, require that such film or class
of film, shall not be exhibited at all, either publicly or privately,
unless the Board has issued a certificate of approval in respect
thereof, and thereafter the person who has been given notice
Restriction on
exhibitions
Act No. 9 of 2019 ss. 19
and 23

ificate of approval in respect
thereof, and thereafter the person who has been given notice
Restriction on
exhibitions
Act No. 9 of 2019 ss. 19
and 23

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562
as aforesaid shall not, or, where notice has been given in the
Gazette, no person shall, exhibit the film, or, as the case may
be, any film of that class, at any exhibition whatsoever unless
the Board has issued a certificate of approval in respect thereof,
or otherwise than in accordance with its terms and conditions. (3) A person who exhibits any film in contravention of the
provisions of subsection (1) or subsection (2) of this section,
commits an offence. [s. 15]
17.–(1) A person shall not display or advertise or cause or
permit to be displayed or advertised in a public place, so as
to be visible from a public place, any film poster unless the
Board has first approved a poster for public display through
any platform or media display.

be visible from a public place, any film poster unless the
Board has first approved a poster for public display through
any platform or media display.

(2) Where, under paragraph (b) of subsection (1) of section
18 of this Act, the Board has directed that a description only
of a poster is needed to be furnished, and a poster advertising
the film or exhibition is displayed in a public place or so as to
be visible from a public place, an authorised person may, if he
considers that the poster is objectionable or does not conform
to the description furnished under the said paragraph, and
on production of his authority if so requested, require any
person displaying the poster or causing or permitting it to be
displayed, to remove it or delete, alter or obliterate a specified
part thereof. (3) A person who contravenes the provisions of subsection
(1) of this section, or who fails to comply with any requirement
of an authorised person under subsection (2) of this section,
commits an offence. (4) In this section, “authorised person” means a person who
is authorised in writing by the Board for purposes of this Part. [s. 16]
Restriction on
display of posters
Act No. 9 of 2019 ss. 19
and 24

person who
is authorised in writing by the Board for purposes of this Part. [s. 16]
Restriction on
display of posters
Act No. 9 of 2019 ss. 19
and 24

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THE FILMS AND STAGE PLAYS ACT [CAP. 230 R.E. 2023]
18.–(1) Every application for a certificate of approval shall be
made to the Board and shall be accompanied by-
(a) the entire film to which the application relates; and
(b) a copy of every poster intended to be publicly displayed
in connection with the film or its exhibition, or else,
where the Board in any particular case so directs, a
full description thereof and of the visual and verbal
contents thereof. (2) Where an application is made for a certificate of
approval in respect of a film or for the approval of a poster,
containing writing or speech in a language other than Swahili
or English, the Board may require a translation thereof into
Swahili or English, certified to the satisfaction of the Board, or
may submit the same for the examination and report of such
person or persons as the Board may appoint for the purpose. [s.

tisfaction of the Board, or
may submit the same for the examination and report of such
person or persons as the Board may appoint for the purpose. [s.

17]
19.–(1) Subject to any regulations made in that behalf by the
Minister under this Act, on completion of the examination of
a film, the Board may-
(a) approve it for exhibition to the public;
(b) approve for such exhibition subject to such excisions as
it thinks proper;
(c) refuse to approve it for such exhibition; or
(d) where the film is the subject of a notice under
subsection (2) of section 16 of this Act-
(i) approve it for exhibition by such persons to such
persons or in such places as the Board thinks
proper; or
(ii) refuse to approve its exhibition. (2) On completion of the examination of a poster the Board
may-
(a) approve it for public display;
(b) approve it for public display subject to such deletions
or alterations as it thinks proper; or
(c) refuse to approve it for public display. Application for
certificate of
approval
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 19
Certificate of
approval
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 19

fuse to approve it for public display. Application for
certificate of
approval
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 19
Certificate of
approval
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 19

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE FILMS AND STAGE PLAYS ACT [CAP. 230 R.E. 2023]
564
(3) Where the Board approves a film subject to excisions
therefrom, the Board may itself make, or cause to be made, the
excisions and retain in its possession the excised parts.

s a film subject to excisions
therefrom, the Board may itself make, or cause to be made, the
excisions and retain in its possession the excised parts.

(4) The Board shall not -
(a) approve any film or poster which in its opinion tends
to prejudice the maintenance of public order or offend
decency, or the public exhibition or display of which
would in its opinion for any other reason be undesirable
in the public interest;
(b) grant any certificate of approval in respect of a film
which has been refused a certificate of approval by any
film committee, or in respect of which an application
has been made to another film committee and remains
undetermined;
(c) grant a certificate of approval in respect of any film
in respect of an approval that has been cancelled or
revoked by the Minister under this Act; or
(d) vary any conditions or restrictions specified in a
certificate of approval granted by film committee in
respect of a film,
and any purported grant of approval or certificate of approval,
or variation of conditions or restrictions, in contravention of
the provisions of this subsection shall be of no effect. [s.

certificate of approval,
or variation of conditions or restrictions, in contravention of
the provisions of this subsection shall be of no effect. [s.

18]
20.–(1) Where the Board approves a film or poster it shall
grant to the applicant a certificate of approval thereof in
the prescribed form and such certificate shall authorise the
exhibition or display of the film or poster to which it relates in
any part of Mainland Tanzania subject to such conditions and
restrictions as may therein be specified. (2) Where the Board approves a film or poster as aforesaid
subject to excisions, deletions or alterations, any person who-
(a) exhibits such film, from the parts which the Board
directed to be excised, deleted or altered have not
been excised, deleted or altered in accordance with the
Board’s direction; or
Validity of
certificate of
approval
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 19

red have not
been excised, deleted or altered in accordance with the
Board’s direction; or
Validity of
certificate of
approval
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 19

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.565
THE FILMS AND STAGE PLAYS ACT [CAP. 230 R.E. 2023]
(b) displays or causes or permits to be displayed in a public
place or so as to be visible from a public place, such
poster, from the parts which the Board directed to
be excised, deleted or altered in accordance with the
Board’s direction,
commits an offence. [s. 19]
21. Where any matter other than the certificate of approval and
the decision of the Board, is added to a film after it has been
approved by the Board, the film shall be deemed, for purposes
of this Act, to be a film in respect of which a certificate of
approval has not been granted. [s.

by the Board, the film shall be deemed, for purposes
of this Act, to be a film in respect of which a certificate of
approval has not been granted. [s.

20]
22.–(1) Where the Board has granted a certificate of approval
in respect of a film, whether with or without special conditions
or restrictions, and the Board or the Minister is of the opinion
that the Board should review its decision in the light of
prevailing public opinion or other circumstances the Board
may, and shall, if so directed by the Minister, review its decision
and on any such review the provisions of this Act relating to an
application for a certificate of approval shall, mutatis mutandis,
apply to such review. (2) After reviewing the grant of a certificate of approval
pursuant to the provisions of subsection (1), the Board may
revoke such certificate of approval or any special conditions or
restrictions attached thereto or attach such special conditions
and restrictions thereto as it deems fit and such certificate of
approval, if revoked, shall cease to have effect or, varied as
aforesaid, shall have effect as so varied. [s. 21]
Effect of adding
matter to film
after its approval
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 19
Review of
decision of Board
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 19

t as so varied. [s. 21]
Effect of adding
matter to film
after its approval
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 19
Review of
decision of Board
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 19

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE FILMS AND STAGE PLAYS ACT [CAP. 230 R.E. 2023]
566
PART V
REGULATION OF STAGE PLAY PERFORMANCES
23. The Minister may, by writing under his hand or by notice
in the Gazette, appoint any person or body of persons or
designate any department of the Government or other public
institution to be a stage plays authority for purposes of this
Part, for such area or areas as he shall specify. [s. 22]
24.–(1) A person shall not, present or cause or permit to be
presented, or direct or produce or take part or assist in the
direction or production of, any public performance of a stage
play, unless a stage plays authority has granted a certificate of
approval authorising such performance. (2) A person who contravenes the provisions of subsection
(1) of this section, commits an offence. [s.

icate of
approval authorising such performance. (2) A person who contravenes the provisions of subsection
(1) of this section, commits an offence. [s.

23]
25.–(1) Every application for a certificate of approval in
respect of a stage play shall be made in writing to the stage
plays authority in the area in which it is to be staged, and shall
be accompanied by a copy of the play, which copy may in the
discretion of the stage plays authority be returned forthwith
or retained during the currency of any certificate of approval
granted in pursuance of the application, or for such other
period as the stage plays authority may consider necessary for
the proper performance of its functions. (2) Where the stage play contains writing in a language
other than Swahili or English, the stage plays authority may
require a translation thereof into Swahili or English language,
certified to its satisfaction:
Provided that, the stage plays authority may, if it thinks fit,
dispense with such translation, and instead submit the play or
a part thereof for the examination and report of such person or
persons as it may appoint for the purpose. [s. 24]
Appointment
of stage play
authorities
Restriction on
performances of
stage plays
Application for
certificate of
approval

oint for the purpose. [s. 24]
Appointment
of stage play
authorities
Restriction on
performances of
stage plays
Application for
certificate of
approval

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.567
THE FILMS AND STAGE PLAYS ACT [CAP. 230 R.E. 2023]
26. A stage plays authority may grant a certificate of approval
in respect of a stage play, or may grant it on condition that
specified deletions or alterations be made from or to the play, or
may refuse to grant a certificate of approval if it considers that
the play tends, or would tend to offend decency or prejudice the
maintenance of public order, or that the public performance
of the play would for any other reason be undesirable in the
public interest. [s. 25]
27.

maintenance of public order, or that the public performance
of the play would for any other reason be undesirable in the
public interest. [s. 25]
27.

Where-
(a) a certificate of approval in respect of a stage play
has been granted subject to specified deletions or
alterations being made from or to the play and the
play is performed without all specified deletions or
alterations having been made; or
(b) at any performance of a stage play any other matter
beyond that comprised in the copy of the play submitted
to the stage plays authority under subsection (1) of
section 25 of this Act is included or performed at the
performance,
the performance shall be deemed, for purposes of section 24 of
this Act, to be a performance in respect of which a certificate
of approval has not been granted. [s. 26]
28. Notwithstanding the provisions of this Part-
(a) the Minister may, by notice in the Gazette, exempt from
the provisions of this Part, any stage play, or class of
stage plays generally, or by reference to the persons or
category of persons performing in or producing such
stage plays;
(b) a stage plays authority may in writing similarly exempt
any stage play or stage plays performed in the area for
which it is appointed. [s. 27]
Certificate of
approval
Effect of failing
to alter play, or of
adding matter
Power to exempt
stage plays

n the area for
which it is appointed. [s. 27]
Certificate of
approval
Effect of failing
to alter play, or of
adding matter
Power to exempt
stage plays

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568
PART VI
MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
29.–(1) The Minister may appoint a public officer to be the
Secretary of the Board. (2) The Secretary shall perform such functions as may be
conferred upon him by or under this Act, or as may be assigned
to him from time to time by the Minister or the Board. [s. 28]
30. The Minister may give the Board, a Regional Film
Committee or a stage plays authority directions of a general
or specific character as to the performance of any functions
or duties conferred or imposed by or under this Act upon the
Board, a Regional Film Committee or a stage plays authority,
and directions so given shall be given effect accordingly. [s. 29]
31.–(1) Whenever it is made to appear to the Minister that
the public interest so requires, he may revoke any permit,
licence, certificate of approval, approval, permission or other
authorisation issued or granted under this Act.

so requires, he may revoke any permit,
licence, certificate of approval, approval, permission or other
authorisation issued or granted under this Act.

(2) Every revocation made pursuant to the provisions of
subsection (1) shall be by notice in the Gazette or by notice in
writing served personally or by registered post on the person to
whom the permit, licence, certificate of approval, approval or
other authorisation, as the case may be, was issued or granted. [s. 30]
32.–(1) The Board and every Regional Film Committee may,
from time to time, establish committees of members of the
Board for the better carrying out of its functions under this
Act and, subject to the provisions of this section, may delegate,
subject to such terms, conditions and restrictions as it may
specify, to any such committee all or any of its functions,
powers or duties conferred or imposed upon the Board by
Appointment
of Secretary of
Board
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 19
Power of Minister
to give directions
to Board
committees
and stage plays
authorities
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 19
Revocation of
licences, etc., by
Minister
Power of Board
to establish
committees and
to delegate
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 19

ities
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 19
Revocation of
licences, etc., by
Minister
Power of Board
to establish
committees and
to delegate
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 19

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.569
THE FILMS AND STAGE PLAYS ACT [CAP. 230 R.E. 2023]
or under this Act and where any delegation is so made the
delegated function, power or duty may be exercised or as the
case may be, performed by the committee subject to the terms,
conditions and restrictions specified by the Board. (2) The Board may revoke any delegation made by it under
this section, and no delegation made under this section shall
prevent the Board from its exercising or performing the
function, power or duty delegated. (3) The Board shall not have power under this section to
delegate its power of delegation. [s. 31]
33.–(1) The Board shall, for every usage, sale and re-sale
of contents filmed in Mainland Tanzania by a foreign film
producer, be entitled to a prescribed benefit. (2) The Minister may make regulations prescribing for-
(a) determinations of benefits referred to under subsection
(1);
(b) terms and conditions for acquisition of producers’
filming permits issued pursuant to section 5.

ons of benefits referred to under subsection
(1);
(b) terms and conditions for acquisition of producers’
filming permits issued pursuant to section 5.

(3) The Board shall set guidelines and procedures for
accessing famous filming locations. [s. 31A]
34. The Minister may, by writing under his hand or by notice in
the Gazette, delegate to any public officer any of his functions
under this Act. [s. 32]
35.–(1) A police officer, a member of the Board or any person
authorised by the Minister in writing in that behalf, may, if he
has reasonable cause to believe that an exhibition of a film or
performance of a stage play is being or is about to be made or
given on any premises, demand that the person in charge of
those premises allow him free entry to the premises and afford
him all reasonable facilities to ascertain whether such exhibition
or performance is being or is about to be made or given and
Profit returns
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 25
Minister may
delegate his
functions
Power of entry,
etc.

rformance is being or is about to be made or given and
Profit returns
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 25
Minister may
delegate his
functions
Power of entry,
etc.

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE FILMS AND STAGE PLAYS ACT [CAP. 230 R.E. 2023]
570
whether the provisions of this Act and of the regulations
thereunder, and the terms and conditions of any certificate of
approval, approval or permission issued or granted thereunder,
are being, or as the case may be, will be, observed. (2) Where any such police officer, member of the Board
or person authorised by the Minister, after production of his
authority to any person reasonably requiring the same, is unable
to obtain entry to the premises without unreasonable delay, he
may without warrant enter the premises and inspect the same to
ascertain the matters specified under subsection (1).

es without unreasonable delay, he
may without warrant enter the premises and inspect the same to
ascertain the matters specified under subsection (1).

(3) Where any such officer, member or person as aforesaid
is satisfied that an exhibition or performance is being made
or given in contravention of any of the provisions of this Act
or of any regulations thereunder, or the terms and conditions
of any certificate of approval, approval or permission issued
or granted thereunder, he may order that the exhibition or
performance be stopped and shall not be further made or
given until all the said provisions, terms and conditions are
complied with to his satisfaction. (4) A person who prevents or obstructs any police officer,
member of the Board or person authorised by the Minister
acting under this section in the performance of his duties,
or who fails to comply with an order given to him under
subsection (3) of this section, commits an offence. [s. 33]
36.–(1) A person who commits an offence under this Act shall
be liable to a fine not exceeding five million shillings or to
imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years or to both.

ffence under this Act shall
be liable to a fine not exceeding five million shillings or to
imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years or to both.

(2) Where any person is convicted of an offence under this
Act or any regulations made thereunder, then, in addition to
or in lieu of any other penalty, the court by which such person
is convicted may-
(a) where the offence relates to the making of a film, order
the confiscation and destruction of the film and footage
clip or any material used to make such film, if any, or
Penalty
Acts Nos. 10 of 2013 s. 25
9 of 2019 s. 26

ion and destruction of the film and footage
clip or any material used to make such film, if any, or
Penalty
Acts Nos. 10 of 2013 s. 25
9 of 2019 s. 26

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.571
THE FILMS AND STAGE PLAYS ACT [CAP. 230 R.E. 2023]
any part thereof in respect of which the offence was
committed, and may revoke the film permit, if any,
relating to the making of the film, whether the person
convicted is the holder thereof or not;
(b) where the offence relates to exhibition, order the
confiscation and destruction of the film or any part
thereof in respect of which the offence was committed,
and may, in addition, or instead, revoke any certificate
of approval, approval or permission granted under this
Act. [s. 34]
37.

ffence was committed,
and may, in addition, or instead, revoke any certificate
of approval, approval or permission granted under this
Act. [s. 34]
37.

Where any offence under this Act or any regulations
made thereunder is committed by a company or other body
corporate, or by a society, association or body of persons, every
person charged with, or concerned or acting in, the control or
management of the affairs or activities of such company, body
corporate, society, association or body of persons commits
an offence and is liable to be punished accordingly, unless it
is proved by such person that, through no act or omission
on his part, he was not aware that the offence was being or
was intended or about to be committed, or that he took all
reasonable steps to prevent its commission. [s. 35]
38. A person who is aggrieved by a decision of the Board, a
Regional Film Committee, a licensing authority or stage plays
authority under this Act may appeal within the prescribed
period and in the prescribed manner to the Minister, who may,
subject to the provisions of this Act, confirm, vary or reverse
the decision, and may give such directions in the matter as he
deems fit and the Board, Regional Film Committee, licensing
authority or stage plays authority, as the case may be, shall
comply with the directions so issued. [s.

the Board, Regional Film Committee, licensing
authority or stage plays authority, as the case may be, shall
comply with the directions so issued. [s.

36]
Offences by
corporations,
societies, etc. Appeals
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 19

36]
Offences by
corporations,
societies, etc. Appeals
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 19

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE FILMS AND STAGE PLAYS ACT [CAP. 230 R.E. 2023]
572
39.–(1) [Repeals the Cinematograph Ordinance.]
(2) Notwithstanding the repeal of the Cinematograph
Ordinance by this Act-
(a) all subsidiary legislation made under the
Cinematograph Ordinance and in force immediately
before the commencement of this Act shall continue
in force and be deemed to have been lawfully made
under this Act until it is revoked, and may be varied or
amended accordingly;
(b) until new appointments are made under this Act,
any appointment made under the Cinematograph
Ordinance shall be deemed to have been made under
this Act; and
(c) all authorities, licences and permits issued or granted
under the Cinematograph Ordinance and which are
valid immediately before the commencement of the
Act shall be deemed to have been lawfully issued or
granted under the corresponding provision of this Act
and shall continue in force until they are revoked or
cancelled, and may be varied or amended accordingly. [s. 37]
40.

esponding provision of this Act
and shall continue in force until they are revoked or
cancelled, and may be varied or amended accordingly. [s. 37]
40.

The Minister may make regulations generally for the better
carrying out of the purposes and provisions of this Act, and,
without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing, may make
regulations-
(a) prescribing fees to be paid for any certificate of approval,
film permit or theatre licence under this Act;
(b) prescribing charges for, or for matters incidental to, the
attendance of any public officer at the making of a film
under section 5 of this Act, or the attendance of any
officer or other person, designated for that purpose, at any
exhibition or performance under section 12 of this Act;
(c) prescribing the conditions to be observed with regard
to the erection, alteration and equipment of any theatre;
Repeal and
savings
Ord. No. 37 of 1935
Regulations
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 27

erved with regard
to the erection, alteration and equipment of any theatre;
Repeal and
savings
Ord. No. 37 of 1935
Regulations
Act No. 9 of 2019 s. 27

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THE FILMS AND STAGE PLAYS ACT [CAP. 230 R.E.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.573
THE FILMS AND STAGE PLAYS ACT [CAP. 230 R.E.

2023]
(d) prescribing the conditions to be observed with regard
to the safety of theatres from fire or other danger, the
safety and control of persons attending at theatres;
(e) prescribing the conditions to be observed for purposes
of protecting the health of persons attending at
theatres;
(f) regulating the duties, functions, proceedings and the
conduct of the business of the Board or committee
appointed under section 14 of this Act and the manner
in which the censorship of films and posters shall be
conducted;
(g) regulating the constitution, duties, functions,
proceedings and the conduct of the business of stage
plays authorities appointed under section 23 of this Act
and the manner in which the censorship of stage plays
shall be conducted;
(h) prescribing forms for and the manner of making
applications for certificates of approval, film permits
and theatre licences under this Act;
(i) making provision with regard to the form and manner
in which applications for exemptions under sections 9,
13 or 28 of this Act shall be made;
(j) prescribing the conditions subject to which certificates
of approval, film permits and theatre licences under
this Act shall be granted;
(k) providing for the classification of films by the Board or
committee and the manner in which such classification
shall be made;
(l) prohibiting or restricting the exhibition of any class of
cinematograph picture before persons below any age
which may be specified or prohibiting or restricting
such exhibition before any person below such age,
unless he is accompanied by a parent or guardian or
such other conditions as may be specified;

cting
such exhibition before any person below such age,
unless he is accompanied by a parent or guardian or
such other conditions as may be specified;

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nia. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.THE FILMS AND STAGE PLAYS ACT [CAP. 230 R.E.

2023]
574
(m) making provision with regard to the giving of notice
to intending viewers of any conditions and restrictions
attached to the exhibition of any cinematograph
picture or any class thereof and the manner in which
such notice shall be given;
(n) prescribing the conditions to be observed with regard to
the conduct of any person or persons charged with, or
acting in the control or management of the admission,
on payment, of persons to any public exhibition or
public performance;
(o) prohibiting or restricting the participation by any
person or category of persons in the sale or distribution
of any tickets or other authorisation for admission of
persons to any public exhibition or public performance,
and making provision with regard to the manner in
which and the places and times at which the sale or
distribution of such tickets or authorisation shall be
made;
(p) prescribing the periods for which certificates of
approval under this Act shall be granted;
(q) prescribing the procedure for appeals to the Minister
under this Act;
(r) prescribing the code of conduct and discipline,
professional ethics and etiquettes in the film industry
and stage play; and
(s) prescribing anything which under this Act is to be or
may be prescribed.

ofessional ethics and etiquettes in the film industry
and stage play; and
(s) prescribing anything which under this Act is to be or
may be prescribed.

[s. 38]