Photo: SimplyAvoir

Tanzania is reviewing the Employment and Labour Act to employees living with HIV/AIDS get required services from their employers (file photo).

LOCAL artists should avoid excessive use of alcohol, drugs and cigarettes smoking when they become famous and wealthy.

Tanzania Tobacco Control Forum (TTCF) Managing Director, Lutgard Kagaruki said in Dar es Salaam on Sunday evening while launching a film by 'Daily News' reporter, Finnigan wa Simbeye that there is money and fame in the performing arts, which artists should know and understand.

"You know some of you who are already affected by drug abuse and are currently in rehabilitation," Kagaruki said. She noted that performing arts is increasingly becoming a new avenue of youth employment hence the need for government to regulate the industry which is employing more youths in the country.

"It's high time that the National Arts Council, BASATA should look seriously into this industry and ensure that ethics are followed," Kagaruki underlined. She commended wa Simbeye for establishing his film company which has temporarily given jobs to over 20 youths who are mostly university graduates.

Speaking during the launch of the film, 'The sixth commandment,' the company's Director, wa Simbeye said it focuses on spiritual and real lives of youths who despite church teachings often go astray. "The movie also highlights the role of conservative church minister in the fight against stigma among HIV/AIDS victims," he said.

He said over 20 youts mainly college graduates have taken part in the two parts film which lasts three hours. "It's a movie about youths and the harsh reality of HIV and AIDS," wa Simbeye noted, saying the movie is in the local market currently in Dar es Salaam while upcountry clients will start getting it next week.

The Dar es Salaam based film company is also scheduled to launch the film in Arusha, Dodoma, Mwanza and Mbeya later this month, while a second movie is due to be shot mid -January.