Zim: NACZ partners local law firm to provide free legal support to artists

The agreement, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), aims to address the long-standing legal challenges faced by creatives, particularly in the areas of Intellectual Property (IP) rights, contract negotiations, dispute resolution, and overall legal empowerment.

The partnership marks a significant step towards the protection and monetisation of Zimbabwean art, music, literature, film and other creative expressions. Under the agreement, DNM Attorneys will offer pro bono legal assistance to artists, helping them navigate complex legal landscapes that have historically left many vulnerable to exploitation and piracy.

“Our artists deserve to profit from their own work, but they have been victims of piracy and unfair contracts, which continue to rob them of their livelihoods. Intellectual property issues are not only about protecting income—they are central to the preservation of our culture,” NACZ CEO Napoleon Nyanhi said. “A secure legal environment attracts investment and fosters innovation in the creative sector.”

DNM Attorneys’ senior partner Moses Nkomo said: “We wish to see a viable and economically significant creative industry. Our support will go beyond legal advice, it will include capacity building, training, and policy advocacy. We want to show artists what the law can do for them and how they can use it to protect and grow their work.”

As part of the partnership, DNM Attorneys will support NACZ in several critical areas, including strengthening legislative and policy frameworks for national IP protection, advocating for more effective enforcement mechanisms, educating artists on rights management tools such as trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets and promoting the commercialisation and monetisation of creative works.

Nyanhi encouraged artists to take full advantage of the support being offered: “Your work has value, protect it. Register with institutions that safeguard your IP, seek legal advice before signing contracts, and report any instances of piracy or unauthorised use of your creations.”