Performance rights organizations and copyright protection in Southern Africa

The Zimbabwe case

Bibliographic Data

ID6428756
AuthorsTendai Chari (0000-0003-4651-0738, University of Venda, corresponding author)
Year2025
Volume87
Issue4
Pages361-375
Publication date2025-06-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueInternational Communication Gazette (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1748-0485 • E-ISSN: 1748-0493
PublisherSAGE Publishing (PUBLISHER • US)
DOI10.1177/17480485251327272
OpenAlexW4412153857
LanguageEN
References cited14

This qualitative case study investigates the role of the Zimbabwe Musical Rights Association (ZIMURA) in copyright protection, with particular emphasis on its evolving responsibilities and the challenges it faces. The study examines how ZIMURA safeguards copyright, the transformations in its roles, and the obstacles that hinder its effectiveness. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews with eight purposively selected key informants, supplemented by archival records, document analysis, and newspaper articles. The findings reveal that ZIMURA predominantly operates within the traditional framework of an “intermediary” but increasingly incorporates elements of an evolving collecting society to adapt and survive in a volatile environment. Despite these efforts, ZIMURA faces numerous social, economic, technological, and legal challenges that weaken its ability to effectively protect the copyrights of its members. To thrive in this turbulent landscape and maximize the financial benefits for its members, the study argues, ZIMURA has expanded its roles beyond the conventional scope of a collecting society. This research offers valuable insights into the dynamics of copyright management in the global South, with a specific focus on Southern Africa

Business · Political science · African studies and sociopolitical issues · Copyright and Intellectual Property · Music History and Culture · Public Administration

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