In a move to promote transparency and efficiency in music royalty collection, the Performers Rights Society of Kenya (PAVRISK) and the Pubs, Entertainment and Restaurants Association of Kenya (PERAK) have reaffirmed their commitment to collaborate, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at simplifying licensing and royalty compliance across Kenya’s hospitality sector.
Addressing stakeholders during the official engagement forum, PAVRISK Board Chairman Mr. Edwardo Waigwa acknowledged the long-standing challenges in royalty collection, citing confusion among business owners, inconsistent licensing by multiple Collective Management Organizations (CMOs), and friction in enforcement. He noted that while licensing had resumed following a six-month approval by the Kenya Copyright Board (KECOBO), compliance remained low due to past instances of aggressive enforcement.
“Instead of sending licensing officers door-to-door, we found it prudent to engage PERAK directly,” said Mr. Waigwa. “They understand their members and can facilitate the process more effectively.” He emphasized that PAVRISK, currently licensed alongside CAMP, has been mandated to handle general and broadcaster licensing. By partnering with PERAK, collections can be streamlined, reducing operational costs and enabling more funds to be channeled toward artist distributions.
Waigwa further noted that one of the major concerns has been the low amounts received by artists. “Our focus now is not only to collect but to distribute fairly,” he stated. “By working with PERAK and other stakeholders, we aim to minimize collection costs and increase the distribution pool, ensuring our members — the artists — benefit more directly.”
PERAK National Chairman Mr. Michael Muthami echoed the spirit of collaboration, expressing optimism about the new direction. He remarked that the partnership marked a significant departure from years of confrontation, where PERAK members and CMOs often found themselves in courtrooms rather than boardrooms.
“For a long time, we were fighting instead of talking,” said Muthami. “This MoU signifies a new chapter — one where we are part of the solution.” He highlighted the importance of the 70% ringfencing rule, which ensures that a significant portion of royalties goes directly to musicians. “We’re tired of hearing about artists receiving Ksh. 8 royalty checks. We want our creatives to get value for their work.”
Muthami also stressed that the joint collection effort would include PERAK officials on the ground to support members and ensure discounts for compliant businesses. “Gone are the days of harassment — taking TVs and speakers from premises,” he said. “Now, it’s about engagement, education, and compliance through partnership.”
As part of the agreement, PERAK members will benefit from discounted rates on general licensing, with an aim to boost compliance and ensure transparency in how collected funds are used.
Both leaders affirmed that this initiative represents a win-win scenario for rights holders and entertainment businesses alike, enhancing accountability, fairness, and the sustainability of Kenya’s creative economy.
