Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), on Friday released a key statement to stakeholders in the Cultural and Creative Industries (CCIs), responding to the US$150 cover band licence fee, introduced by the Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (Zimura) earlier this year.
Dr Nozipo Maraire, NACZ board chairperson, expressed the council’s commitment to finding an amicable solution that respects the interests of both musicians and composers. She stressed their role in protecting both musicians, who perform cover songs and the original composers.
In her letter, Dr Maraire wrote: “The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), is pleased to inform our valued stakeholders in the Cultural and Creative Industries that we are actively working towards an amicable solution regarding the recently announced tariffs by Zimura.
“The NACZ has a mandate to safeguard the interests of all artistes, encompassing both musicians, who perform cover versions and the original composers of musical works. This responsibility necessitates finding a fair balance between these two groups, to reach a mutual understanding concerning Zimura’s new tariff structure.”
Recognising Zimura as a private, member-driven entity regulated by the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Act, the NACZ clarified that operational matters regarding Zimura fall under the jurisdiction of the Companies and Intellectual Property Office of Zimbabwe (CIPZ).
“CIPZ under the Chief Registrar in the Ministry of Justice, is providing leadership in ensuring that tariffs are approved for 2025 for all Collective Management Organisations and while this process is underway, we urge all users of copyright material to comply and pay for licenses as per the 2024 tariff schedule.
The letter also acknowledged the concerns raised by music users regarding the new tariffs.
“Zimura has taken note of the concerns raised by music users,” she said, noting that discussions with stakeholders are ongoing.
The NACZ encouraged bands to respect copyright laws by getting permission before using other composers’ work.
“We fully appreciate that it is a common practice that bands sometimes have to use other composers’ works in their performances. However, we would like to foster a culture of respecting Copyright and seeking the relevant authority for such use.”
Dr Maraire said the NACZ is committed to working collaboratively with CMOs to promote the arts sector.
“Moving forward, the NACZ is committed to working collaboratively with CMOs to advance our arts sector and foster an environment where it can flourish without impediments,” she concluded.
For a while, the US$150 tariff was a bone of contention among those involved in the music business and the wait is still on for a permanent solution. — @MbuleloMpofu
