Kenya: High Court upholds KAMP’s legitimacy, orders KECOBO to issue licence

The ruling, delivered before Hon. Thripsisa Cherere, reaffirms the Tribunal’s earlier verdict revoking Performers Rights Society of Kenya’s (PRISK) licence and directing KECOBO to issue KAMP its rightful operating licence.

This decision marks the final legal hurdle in KAMP’s long-standing battle for recognition as a Collective Management Organisation (CMO) in Kenya. The Tribunal had initially ruled in KAMP’s favour in September 2024, confirming its legitimacy as a rights management body.

KAMP chairperson Angela Ndambuki hailed the ruling as a significant victory for Kenya’s creative industry, calling on the regulator to comply without further delay.

“Today’s judgment is a victory not just for KAMP, but for every creative in Kenya,” Ndambuki said. “The law has spoken, and it is now time for compliance. We urge the regulator to immediately implement the court’s decision and issue KAMP with its rightful licence so we can continue to serve our members effectively.”

Echoing her sentiments, KAMP CEO CS Maurice Okoth emphasised the urgency of the matter, stressing that justice had already been delayed for too long.

“This ruling sends a strong message that justice cannot be delayed or denied. KAMP has been on the right side of the law throughout this process, and today’s decision underscores our rightful place in the industry. We expect full compliance from the regulator without further delay,” Okoth said.

In a statement, KAMP asserted that the ruling eliminates any justification for further delays in obtaining its licence. The CMO emphasised that industry stakeholders have long condemned the withholding of its operating status, highlighting how it has disrupted the collection and distribution of royalties, ultimately impacting the livelihoods of artists and producers.

Ndambuki added: “The creative economy depends on strong institutions that respect the law, and we will continue to champion the rights of our members to ensure they receive what is rightfully theirs.”