Online Reporter
Trust Khosa, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
ZIMBABWE’S literary community has received a major boost with the establishment of the Reprographic Rights Organisation of Zimbabwe (RROZ), a government-approved Collective Management Organisation (CMO) tasked with safeguarding the rights of authors, publishers and other copyright holders.
RROZ is now fully operational, issuing licences in line with the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Act [Chapter 26:05], marking a critical turning point in the fight against piracy, unauthorised photocopying and exploitation in the publishing industry.
For years, Zimbabwe’s book industry has battled rampant illegal reproduction of literary works, costing writers and publishers vital income and discouraging investment in local literature. But RROZ’s chief executive officer, Anthony Rimau, has said a new era is here.
“RROZ has been established to ensure fair compensation for the reproduction of works and to protect the rights of those who create them. It’s a game-changer for the entire literary sector,” said Rimau.
Operating under Section 97 of the Copyright Act, RROZ is empowered to license and collect royalties on behalf of copyright holders. Its goal? To promote a fair, legal and sustainable ecosystem for literature in Zimbabwe.
RROZ has already begun a nationwide awareness campaign, reaching out to universities, schools, copy shops, publishers and authors, to raise awareness about the legal obligations surrounding reprographic reproduction. All entities involved in the duplication of literary materials, including libraries, educational institutions and photocopying services, are now legally required to register and obtain licences from RROZ.
“Failure to comply will attract penalties, including possible closure by the relevant authorities,” Rimau warned.
With a dynamic leadership structure, RROZ is positioning itself as a watchdog and advocate for rights holders. Rimau believes the team’s collective vision and energy will help reshape the industry for the better.
“We are committed to transparency, efficiency and meaningful collaboration with stakeholders to restore dignity to creators,” he said.
Beyond enforcement, RROZ is investing in long-term solutions through education. The organisation will roll out workshops, seminars and outreach programmes to empower writers and publishers with knowledge about their intellectual property rights and how to defend them.
Rimau said equipping creatives with this knowledge is essential to nurturing a thriving literary culture.
“By helping authors understand their rights, we’re not just protecting content, we’re fostering innovation, creativity and long-term growth in the sector,” he said.
Looking ahead, RROZ plans to deepen its impact through partnerships with educational institutions, literary bodies and NGOs. One of its most ambitious goals is to establish an annual literary festival, a national celebration of Zimbabwean writing that will bring together authors, publishers and readers for dialogue, networking and inspiration.
“We want to build a vibrant publishing ecosystem where writers can thrive and Zimbabwe’s literary heritage can flourish,” said Rimau.
The launch of RROZ could not have come at a better time. As Zimbabwe’s creatives grapple with economic pressures and digital disruption, the organisation offers much-needed structure, legal support and hope.
