By Ng’wono O’Nyakundi
The Performing and Audio-Visual Rights Society of Kenya (PAVRISK) has achieved a major milestone after the Kenya Copyright Board (KECOBO) renewed its licence to manage royalty collection and distribution for the music and audio-visual sectors nationwide.
The continued recognition of PAVRISK as a Collective Management Organisation (CMO) not only strengthens its credibility but also reinforces adherence to copyright regulations designed to protect intellectual property in Kenya’s growing creative and digital economy.
In a public notice, ECOBO announced that PAVRISK had met all legal and operational requirements following a rigorous evaluation process.
The decision came after the board reviewed PAVRISK’s application alongside submissions from stakeholders and right holders during public participation sessions.
Alongside PAVRISK, KAMP Copyright and Related Rights Ltd was also licensed to manage royalties for sound recording producers for a one-year term effective November 5, 2025.
KECOBO Board Chair Joshua Kutuny said the board’s decision followed confirmation of full compliance with all regulatory conditions.
“The KECOBO Board of Directors held a special meeting on 14 October 2025 to deliberate on the licensing of CMOs following a rigorous recruitment process,” said Kutuny.
He outlined new compliance measures for all licensed CMOs, including the submission of updated member lists and catalogues of copyrighted works and adoption of approved ICT systems for royalty collection,.
Other measures are licensing, media monitoring and distribution, as well as the establishment of dedicated royalty trust and paybill accounts with joint signatories adhering to the 70-30 distribution rule.
While PAVRISK and KAMP secured approvals, other applicants — including the Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK), Film Makers Rights Achievers of Kenya (FRAK), and Collective Management Services (CMS) — were not successful.
MCSK’s bid was reportedly hindered by allegations of mismanagement, diversion of royalties and leadership wrangles that have split the organisation into rival factions.
Earlier in May 2025, KECOBO had authorised PAVRISK to collect royalties from outlets such as broadcasters, general licensing entities, barber shops, salons, supermarkets, hotels, bars and restaurants.
PAVRISK Board Chair Edwardo Waigwa expressed gratitude to KECOBO for renewing the organisation’s licence for the fourth time.
“We are elated by KECOBO’s decision to issue us with an operating licence to represent musicians and audio-visual right holders,” said Waigwa.
“This recognition is a testament to our strong compliance record and the trust that the regulator continues to place in our institution.”
He added that PAVRISK remains committed to revitalising royalty management in Kenya and ensuring that artists and creators receive fair value for their copyrighted works.