Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
THE Zimbabwe Council of Copyrights has described 2025 as a successful year that saw them change many lives.
ZICCO, a collective management organisation that protects the intellectual property rights of artists and creators in Zimbabwe, held its elective conference in Bulawayo, during which new leaders were elected.
In his address, ZICCO chief executive officer Dr Tafadzwa Masembura expressed optimism about a bright future.
“The past financial year has been a testament to the enduring spirit of ZICCO. It was a year marked by significant challenges, not least of which were our persistent court appearances.
“These battles tested our resolve, yet I stand here to declare that we not only endured — we thrived. We navigated these adversities and emerged stronger, more unified, and more determined than ever.
“In the midst of these headwinds, we pressed forward with our strategic expansion. A key milestone was the launch of our farming enterprise, established for the benefit of our entire membership. This initiative was born from a desire to diversify opportunities and create sustainable livelihoods beyond our core artistic pursuits,” he stressed.
“Like any new venture, it has had its challenges. The uptake from our artistic community was lower than we had hoped — a hurdle we acknowledge. But at ZICCO, we do not retreat from challenges; we learn from them and persevere.
“Our commitment to this enterprise remains unshaken, leading us to take a decisive step: ZICCO itself has invested directly in farming sugar beans on a portion of the land. This demonstrates our belief in the project’s viability. The door remains wide open — the land is still available, and we actively encourage our members to step forward and utilise this resource to build their own agricultural legacies.”
Outlining their roadmap for the upcoming year, Dr Masembura stated they were concerned about the welfare of musicians and other creators.
“Our expansion was not limited to the fields. Understanding the need to be closer to our members, we embarked on educational roadshows and successfully established new offices in the artistic hubs of Bulawayo and Gweru. This brought our services and our support directly to your doorstep.
“We had hoped to spread our wings even further, but the constraints of our legal challenges meant we had to consolidate our gains. However, let me be clear: we are undeterred. We are unstoppable in our mission to build up Zimbabwe, one step at a time.
“Our vision for the coming year is bold and clear. Our immediate priority is to plant the ZICCO flag in Manicaland and Masvingo, opening new offices in each province to serve the artists there. This is just the beginning of a national rollout that will see us reach every corner of our great country. Our mission is deeply aligned with our national Vision 2030 — we are committed to leaving no artist and no community behind,” he shared.
He was upbeat that they would accomplish the mission.
“The fuel for this ambitious expansion, the very lifeblood of our collective society, is the faithful payment of license fees by the business community.
“Their compliance is what empowers us to fight for you, to create new opportunities for you, and to build a sustainable creative industry.”
dyton mupawaenda