Antony Chawagarira
The Government has dissolved the entire board of the Zimbabwe Music Rights Association with immediate effect, in a dramatic move that follows months of pressure from musicians demanding accountability and transparency within the royalties body.
The dissolution on April 9, comes amid serious governance concerns within ZIMURA, including allegations of lack of fiduciary responsibility, questionable legitimacy of the board, poor financial transparency, and actions said to be inconsistent with the organisation’s mandate. Authorities have directed all board members to immediately stop their duties and hand over all documents and materials within seven days to an interim administrator who will take charge of operations while investigations continue.
The development follows sustained demonstrations, petitions, and public outcry from musicians across Zimbabwe who had accused the board of failing to properly account for royalties collected from radio stations, live performances, and digital platforms. In recent months, artists organised meetings, social media campaigns, and formal petitions submitted to authorities demanding the removal of the board and a full forensic audit of ZIMURA’s financial records.
Some demonstrations saw musicians openly expressing frustration over delayed or unexplained royalty payments, arguing that despite widespread use of their music, financial returns remained minimal.
Among the most vocal critics was musician Gift Amuli, who previously faced backlash and alleged persecution after publicly calling for the dissolution of the entire ZIMURA board. Speaking following the Government’s decision, Amuli said the move was long overdue and represented justice for artists who had endured years of uncertainty.
“This is what we have been fighting for as musicians and promoters. For years we raised concerns and some of us were victimised for speaking out, but today justice has finally caught up. The dissolution of the board gives hope to artists who depend on royalties for survival,” said Amuli.
Industry observers believe the appointment of an interim administrator could bring immediate relief to artists by restoring confidence in the management of royalties. Many musicians view the decision as the beginning of reforms that could ensure fairer distribution of income and more transparent financial systems within the organisation. For artists, the outcome is expected to provide renewed hope that long-standing grievances will be addressed. With investigations still underway and possible legal action looming, the Government says the ultimate goal is to rebuild ZIMURA into a credible institution that truly serves the interests of musicians and rights holders.
As the music industry awaits further announcements, many artists see the dissolution not just as an administrative change, but as a turning point that could redefine how Zimbabwe’s creative sector is governed and protected.
Those from the dissolved board are: Chairperson: Alexio “Goodchild” Gwenzi; Vice Chairperson: First Farai Batani; Board Treasurer, Evelyn Natsai Moyo (Chartered Accountant
and Gospel Musician); Directors/Members, Hon. Dingumuzi Phuti, Dereck Mpofu, Joseph Garakara, Gift Amuli and Chiedza Shoniwa.
