Harare, (New Ziana )— The Portfolio Committee on Media, Information and Broadcasting Services has announced that it will hold public hearings from August 31 to September 4, 2026 to examine the management of music rights in Zimbabwe and address concerns over the plight of musicians.
In a notice, the committee announced it will consult musicians, stakeholders and members of the public on the operations of the Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (ZIMURA) and the Zimbabwe Council of Copyright (ZICCO).
Dubbed “Who Really Owns The Music? The Conversation You Can’t Ignore”, the hearings aim to gather input on copyright management, royalty collection and distribution.
“Your voice. Your rights. Our future. Speak up. Be heard. Shape the future of our music,” the committee said in a public notice.
Music rights management in Zimbabwe has long been a source of contention.
ZIMURA is mandated to collect and distribute royalties on behalf of composers, authors and publishers, while ZICCO oversees copyright administration and policy implementation.
However, artists have for years raised concerns over delayed and low royalty payments, lack of transparency in collections, poor enforcement of copyright laws, and piracy that continues to erode musicians’ earnings.
Many artists argue they receive little from radio airplay, public performances and digital platforms despite their music being widely used.
The complaints have intensified calls for reform of the collective management system to ensure musicians benefit fairly from their work as the industry shifts toward streaming and digital distribution.
The committee said it is seeking views from all players to help shape policy and legislation that upholds artists’ rights and strengthens the music economy.
Further details on venues for the hearings will be announced later.
New Ziana
