Kenyan music industry players form new trade association RIKE

The Recording Industry of Kenya (RIKE), registered in 2022 as an NPO, was officially unveiled at the Trademark Hotel in Nairobi on 9 October. The event also marked the official recruitment and registration of new members.

Supported by Sony Music Entertainment Africa, Universal Music Group and Warner Music Group, RIKE’s aim is to serve the interests of owners of sound recordings through lobbying for a supportive policy and legislative environment.

RIKE says it will work with stakeholders and policymakers to ensure that the recorded music ecosystem is protected across its various revenue streams, including the digital space, which has experienced strong growth in recent years but continues to face the threat of piracy.

The organisation said it would work with stakeholders to ensure that the collective management of sound recordings aligned with standard practice, which includes the establishment of a culture of corporate governance.

RIKE will collaborate with the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) to align with global best practices and participate in broader industry initiatives. It will work closely with the IFPI in the administration of the International Standard Recording Code (ISRC) in Kenya.

RIKE says it will build robust educational programmes for its members focusing on the importance of the ISRC as the key identifier enabling efficient and effective management of sound recordings and music video rights across platforms, and the accurate monitoring and distribution of royalties in the performance rights sector. Its other key mandate will be music charts certification using verified data from streaming partners.

During the launch, RIKE chairperson and Decimal Records executive producer Eric Musyoka said he was optimistic about the future of the Kenyan recording industry.

“Having witnessed the industry evolve over the last two decades, we know the importance of setting a foundation for critical systems and programmes for investors in the recorded music industry,” he said. “The board and I, together with other like-minded individuals, will use our experience to spearhead excellence in the local recording industry.”

RIKE national coordinator Angela Mwandanda added: “Since its establishment, RIKE has had great engagement with music stakeholders and potential partners whose interests align with ours. It is very encouraging to receive the support from the international record companies and such enthusiasm for progress. I am looking forward to seeing the industry reach its full potential.”

RIKE’s board comprises individuals with a wealth of knowledge and extensive music industry experience. Board members include Musyoka, Sauti Sol member and co-founder of Sol Generation Records Bien-Aime Baraza and veteran Kenyan musician Suzanne Gachukia-Opembe. Others are Warner Music South Africa special projects lead Laverne Thomas, Kenyan musician John Katana, Universal Music Group managing director for Southern and East Africa Manusha Sarawan, Kenyan singer and Kassanga Music Centre boss Japheth Kasanga and Sony Music Entertainment Africa managing director Sean Watson.