The Kenya Association of Music Producers (KAMP) celebrated another victory in its ongoing quest for transparency and accountability within the music industry. The Copyright Tribunal officially declared the PAVRISK license null and void, following KAMP’s second appeal against the Kenya Copyright Board’s (KECOBO) licensing practices.
“This important decision comes after a rigorous legal process, confirming what we have consistently maintained: KECOBO’s decision to grant PAVRISK exclusive rights as the sole Collective Management Organization (CMO) was fundamentally flawed and biased,” stated KAMP Chairperson Angela Ndambuki. “Effective immediately, PAVRISK is no longer authorized to collect royalties or represent artists under its previously granted license, and all users of sound recordings should cease payments to PAVRISK.”
KAMP CEO Maurice Okoth added, “This ruling underscores a crucial message: our legal system is capable of correcting injustices and upholding fairness and transparency.”
The Tribunal’s ruling addressed several critical issues related to irregularities in KECOBO’s decision-making. It confirmed KAMP’s long-standing concerns that KECOBO’s licensing process was biased, undermining its integrity.
Despite this victory, KAMP emphasized that its mission is far from over. The association remains committed to ensuring that KECOBO and other regulatory bodies adhere to the highest standards of accountability, fairness, and transparency. KAMP called on KECOBO to reflect on the judgment, respect the rule of law, and implement necessary reforms to avoid future biases.
Today’s victory serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of vigilance and advocacy in the pursuit of a just music industry. KAMP thanked its members for their steadfast support and reaffirmed its commitment to fighting for a fair and equitable environment for the music industry in Kenya.