This archive report was first published on 15 January 2020.
On January 15, 2020, President Uhuru Kenyatta delivered his State of the Nation address, sparking a heated debate over royalty management in Kenya's music industry.
For years, artists have accused Collective Management Organisations (CMOs) of unfairly taking a large share of their royalties, prompting the President to announce changes to the collection structures for content service providers.
Under the new system, all right holders will be required to register on the National Rights Registry, a move aimed at eliminating middlemen in the collection structures of Viusasa and Skiza Tunes and ensuring artists receive a bigger cut of their royalties.
“Kenyans are highly talented and the music industry one of the most lucrative in our country. They are getting low returns and we must allow their investments to pay off so that many more can follow them into the industry, and I believe that in this way, we can do exceptionally well,” said President Uhuru.
However, not all artists are pleased with the President's order. Gospel musician Jimmy Gait has expressed his frustration, stating: “Viusasa has improved my revenue as an artist. I plead with the President to allow every artist to decide where they want their music to be sold. Just like any manufacturer has the right to say where their products will be sold.”
On the other hand, fellow gospel artist Ringtone and comedian Jaymo Ule Msee have expressed support for Uhuru's order, believing it will solve their problems.
