Enkundleni Exclusive Podcast had a sit down with Clarence "Kirah" Garura of ZIMURA to talk about the current debate on band, venue and event licensing to play and perform music.

Clarence explained that ZIMURA (Zimbabwe Music Rights Association) is a collective management organization established in 1982 to protect intellectual property rights for musicians, publishers, and music writers. ZIMURA was established by an Act of Parliament which is Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Act. 

He emphasized that the $150 fee for cover bands is not a penalty, but rather a payment to the original music composers whose work is being performed. This fee ensures that creators are fairly compensated for their work.

Clarence noted that cover bands, by performing music they didn't compose, are profiting unfairly from others' intellectual property. He encouraged bands to enter into formal agreements and to prioritize original music, allowing only 10% of their performances to be cover songs.

Garura also spoke on other music users such as event venues, bars, churches etc. These music users too, need to get ZIMURA licenses to use the music they play and perform.

The conversation highlighted ZIMURA's role in promoting creativity, protecting intellectual property, and ensuring fair compensation for artists. Clarence also mentioned ZIMURA's collaborations with regional and international associations, such as CISAC, ARIPO, WIPO, and others, to advance these goals.

Key points:

- ZIMURA protects intellectual property rights for musicians, publishers, and music writers.

-ZIMURA collects and pays out copyright fees on behalf of and to composers, musicians.

- The $150 fee for cover bands compensates original music composers.
- Cover bands should prioritize original music and enter into formal agreements.
- ZIMURA promotes creativity, fair compensation, and intellectual property protection.
- ZIMURA collaborates with regional and international associations to advance these goals.