KECOBO Orders CMOs to Reapply for Licences Before September 18, 2025
In a public notice, KECOBO has announced that only registered CMOs will be recognized in the management and distribution of royalties. The application process can be done through eCitizen or hard copy submissions to their headquarters.
“Eligible entities should apply to ensure effective representation of creatives in the administration and distribution of royalties,” the board stated.
CMOs play a big role in Kenya’s entertainment industry by managing copyright and related rights for creators including musicians, filmmakers and other artistes. They act as intermediaries between rights holders and users of copyrighted works, collecting licence fees and distributing royalties to members.
Crackdown on unlicensed collectors
This comes after the scrutiny of royalty collection bodies. In June, KECOBO warned the public against paying royalties to Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK) after the High Court ruled against its bid to retain authority as a licensed CMO.
“Following the court ruling, the Kenya Copyright Board wishes to inform the general public and all music users that MCSK does not have authority to collect royalties as a Collective Management Organisation (CMO),” KECOBO stated at the time.
The board also ordered MCSK to stop presenting itself as a licensed body and assured stakeholders that pending legal disputes regarding CMOs will be communicated once resolved.
In a similar move, KECOBO revoked the licence of Performing and Audio Visual Rights Society of Kenya (PAVRISK) in 2024 and warned creatives and businesses against remitting any royalties to the body.
Protecting creatives’ earnings
KECOBO’s latest directive is part of its efforts to streamline royalty collection in Kenya and ensure artistes get their dues without exploitation by unlicensed entities.
By enforcing stricter licensing, the board is protecting copyright holders from fraudulent collection practices and enhancing transparency in the administration of royalties.
This also means a shift towards centralised oversight through digital platforms like eCitizen which KECOBO hopes will improve accountability and efficiency in the licensing process.For creatives.
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KECOBO Orders CMOs to Reapply for Licences Before September 18, 2025