Zim: Government reopens arts sector, concerts remain banned

Music concerts, however, remain banned due to concern that large gatherings could become super-spreaders of the COVID-19 virus. The government’s decision to reopen the creative sector falls under the country’s level four lockdown restrictions.  

“Cabinet resolved that cinemas and theatres can now allow 50% sitting capacity of vaccinated clients, and that all workers should be vaccinated,” Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Monica Mutsvangwa, said at a post-cabinet media briefing on 31 August. “National art galleries across the country will be opened to vaccinated clients only, and all workers should be vaccinated.”

National Arts Council of Zimbabwe director Nicholas Moyo welcomed the development and said that the regulations would enable low-risk sectors like cinemas, theatres, visual art galleries and studios to resume operations with controlled sit-in spaces.

“To start operating, the CCI sector spaces must be inspected and have a National Arts Council of Zimbabwe certificate,” Moyo said. “Workers must be vaccinated, there must be adequate potable water supply, safe sanitary facilities, regular disinfecting provisions by using the approved disinfectants and equip staff with adequate and appropriate personal protective equipment. In addition, to ensure compliance and strict adherence to health regulations, all CCI venues should ensure that they host events where audiences are easily controlled and managed.”

Moyo implored patrons to adhere to all regulations including “presenting proof of vaccination at the point of entry, not exceed 50% capacity of the venue’s holding capacity and wear face masks during the show,” he said, adding that they would continue to monitor the situation and engage the government for the remaining CCI disciplines and artforms to be covered.