Frequently Asked Questions?



The Department of Arts was established in 2017 following a functional review of the now defunct Department of Culture. The Department is made up of the Arts and Crafts Division and the Censorship Division. The Department  was formed in response to a growing recognition of arts and culture as a vital part of Malawi’s national identity, economic development, and social cohesion. Its creation was driven by both national and regional goals to support the creative industries, recognizing that a thriving arts and culture sector contributes significantly to social unity, tourism and economic growth. The Department of Arts operates with the following Mandate, Vision, Mission and Core Values.

 The Department of Arts is overseen by the Ministry of Local Government, Unity, and Culture. 

The Director of Arts is the highest-ranking official for the department and is responsible for overall leadership, strategic planning, policy development, and ensuring that the department meets its objectives in promoting and preserving Malawian culture. The Director reports to the Secretary for Local Government at the Ministry of Local Government, Unity and Culture. 

The Department of Arts is currently implementing three projects:

  1. Mainstreaming Gender Equality in Malawi’s Arts and Culture Sector (GEMACS) (2024 - 2025)
  2. Development of Regulations for the National Arts and Heritage Promotion Fund (2023 - 2024)
  3. Strengthening Institutional Capacities for the Implementation of the Malawi National Cultural Policy (SICIPS) (2021 - 2024)

The Department of Arts offers a variety of services, including:

  1. National Dance Troupe Performances – Traditional dance performances available for hire.
  2. Blantyre Cultural Centre – A venue for arts and cultural events, available for booking.
  3. Film Shooting Permits – Required for both local and international film productions.
  4. Film Classification – Categorizing movies based on content and audience suitability.
  5. Entertainment Permits – Issued for local and international artistic performances.
  6. Premises Licenses – Annual licenses for film shops and mobile film vendors.
  7. Theatre Licenses – For entertainment venues like cinemas and video showrooms.
  8. Technical Guidance on Events & Festivals – Support for event organizers in planning and policy compliance.

  • Taking stock of Malawi’s arts in all identifiable forms
  • Raising profiles and awareness of artists by providing technical assistance of artistry and advisory services
  • Carrying out research on promotion, preservation and presentation of arts and crafts
  • Organizing & facilitating performances of dances, drama, music, and other performing arts as a way of showcasing and preserving Malawian culture
  • Providing assistance in organizing art exhibitions and shows of artistic works for Malawian and visiting artists
  • Assisting artists to form associations.