Kenya: KAMP distributes $38k in interim royalties

The organisation, which represents producers of sound recordings, audio-visual works, musical works, performers, and other copyright holders, said this marks the first time a collective management organisation (CMO) in Kenya has reached an operational efficiency ratio of 70:30, ensuring that the majority of collections go to rights holders.

The distribution, confirmed at a Special General Meeting in Nairobi, covers general allocations and catalogue-based payments for sound recordings. KAMP said that scientific distributions based on airplay data and audio-visual royalties will follow later this year during its Annual General Meeting.

“Today’s payout does not include performers’ royalties since we are awaiting PAVRISK’s declaration of performer funds, which also covers KAMP’s performer share,” KAMP chairperson Angela Ndambuki said. “We have, however, already initiated the necessary invoicing process. It is important to note that KAMP is actively challenging KECOBO’s decision to mandate performer licensing through PAVRISK, as the law rightfully places this responsibility with KAMP.”

Principal Secretary for Youth Affairs and the Creative Economy, Fikirini Jacobs, who was the chief guest at the meeting, commended the role of CMOs in supporting artists. He also described the hurdles faced by CMOs from the regulator as unwarranted, saying they had contributed to animosity between the government and the industry.

He praised KAMP for being the first CMO to achieve the 70:30 efficiency ratio, saying the organisation had been vindicated despite negative publicity.
“We are aware that the government through the actions of a few state officials has been painted as an enemy of the industry and we promise you we hear your cries and disappointment. No one is untouchable and we will streamline this industry so that creatives can feel and have a reason to be patriotic. As a Ministry we are proud of what KAMP has achieved and we are going to offer you our full support in the ongoing battles,” Jacobs said.

He added that the Creative Industry Bill will provide clear structures to ensure every creative earns a decent living and said the government would address regulatory challenges in the sector to eliminate cartels and promote fairness.

KAMP raised concern over the lack of support from the Kenya Copyright Board (KECOBO) in securing public service vehicle (PSV) licensing partnerships with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), claiming this has cost the industry more than Kes.500 million annually. The organisation also criticised KECOBO for issuing “copyright compliance certificates” to broadcasters and content providers it described as non-compliant, saying this undermines enforcement efforts. Legal action has been initiated on the matter.

KAMP CEO Maurice Okoth reiterated the organisation’s focus on accountability: “Our mission is to ensure effective royalty collection and equitable distribution. We believe government regulation must align with global best practices, and we look forward to the review of CMO regulations once the Copyright Bill is passed,” he said.

As part of governance reforms, KAMP has appointed Grant Thornton as its independent auditor. The organisation is also seeking renewal of its operating licence, following a High Court ruling in April 2025 which upheld its legitimacy as a rights management body. It was issued a provisional licence on 5 May 2025 after the court dismissed KECOBO’s appeal against a Copyright Tribunal decision in KAMP’s favour.