Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
In a major advancement for the literary community, the Reprographic Rights Organisation of Zimbabwe (RROZ) has been established to empower local writers and publishers.
The initiative seeks to ensure that creators receive fair recognition and compensation for their work, allowing them to benefit from the fruits of their labour.
With the full cooperation of various stakeholders, RROZ is poised to make a meaningful impact on the book industry.
The new Collection Management Organisation (CMO) is tasked with issuing licences that protect the rights of copyright holders.
It is also mandated to administer reprographic rights in Zimbabwe and RROZ has since commenced operations and is now issuing licences in accordance with the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Act [Chapter 26:05] of Zimbabwe.
In a statement, RROZ chief executive officer Anthony Rimau described the birth of his organisation as a game-changer in the literary sector.
“A new era for copyright protection in Zimbabwe is now upon us as RROZ has been established to safeguard the rights of authors, publishers and other right holders in the book industry by ensuring fair compensation for the reproduction of their works.
“The organisation operates under Section 97 of the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Act, which empowers CMOs to license and collect royalties for the use of copyrighted materials.
“Zimbabwe’s book industry has suffered greatly due to rampant piracy and illegal photocopying, which have deprived creators and publishers of their rightful income. This has stifled creativity, discouraged investment in local literature, and weakened the educational and publishing sectors,” he said.
Rimau, who is working with a vibrant team including Masimba Tinashe Madondo as RROZ chairperson, legal advisor Obey Chitowamombe, and operations manager Garikai Kajaji, expressed confidence in his team in their quest to change the fortunes of publishers and writers.
“RROZ is committed to reversing this trend by ensuring that right holders receive due compensation while fostering a fair and friendly environment for all stakeholders, including educational institutions, copy shops, and businesses involved in reprography.
“Under its leadership, RROZ is dedicated to transparency, efficiency, and collaboration with all industry players.
“Since its registration, RROZ has been on a nationwide awareness campaign, engaging with publishers, authors, universities, schools, and photocopying businesses to inform them of the legal requirement to obtain reprographic licenses,” he stated.
He called various stakeholders in the book industry to register with them.
“All entities involved in the reproduction of copyrighted works—including copy shops, libraries, and educational institutions—are required by law to register with RROZ and obtain the necessary licenses.
“Failure to comply will result in penalties under the Copyright Act, including possible closure of non-compliant businesses by relevant authorities,” emphasised Rimau.
He also called upon all stakeholders to combine forces for the success of the book industry, which has been lagging over the years.
“RROZ invites all stakeholders to engage with the organisation to ensure a fair, legal, and sustainable book industry in Zimbabwe.
“By working together, we can combat piracy, protect intellectual property, and ensure that creators are rightfully rewarded for their work.
“For more information on licensing, compliance, and RROZ’s operations, please contact us through the provided channels,” he said.
Rimau, whose organisation is a Government-approved CMO responsible for licensing and collecting royalties for the reprographic reproduction of literary works in Zimbabwe, has arrived at a crucial time when the sector badly needed regulation.
With its mission to protect rights of holders, combat piracy, and ensure a sustainable creative industry, Rimau’s organisation has come as a panacea for players in the book industry.
He also emphasised that this crucial step not only safeguards the intellectual property of local authors and publishers but also promotes a culture of creativity and innovation within Zimbabwe.
By providing legal support and resources, RROZ aims to foster an environment where writers can thrive.
Furthermore, RROZ is dedicated to raising awareness about copyright issues and the importance of protecting creative works.
Through workshops, seminars, and outreach programmes, Rimau added, the organisation will educate writers and publishers about their rights and the mechanisms available to defend them.
In addition to its licensing activities, RROZ plans to collaborate with various stakeholders, including educational institutions and literary organisations.
By building partnerships, RROZ seeks to enhance the visibility of local writers and promote a vibrant publishing ecosystem.
These efforts will not only uplift individual creators but also enrich Zimbabwe’s cultural landscape as a whole.
Moreover, RROZ envisions establishing an annual literary festival that brings together authors, publishers, and readers to celebrate literature and foster dialogue. These initiatives will serve as a platform for emerging writers to showcase their work, engage with established authors, and participate in discussions about the future of literature in Zimbabwe.
