KAMP Copyright and Related Rights Limited (KAMP) – the collective management organization representing producers of sound recordings, audiovisual works, musical works, performers, and other copyright holders – has announced an interim royalty distribution of Ksh 4.9 million from collections made in May and June 2025.
This marks the first time in Kenya’s history of collective management that KAMP has achieved an operational efficiency ratio of 70:30 ensuring that the largest share of collections goes directly to right holders. At the same time, KAMP said it has initiated plans to go after PSV sector where it is losing over Ksh 500 Million.
Speaking during Special General Meeting held in Nairobi, the KAMP Board confirmed that this distribution covers general allocations and catalogue-based distribution for sound recordings. The scientific (airplay data-based) distribution and audiovisual royalties will follow before the end of the year, during KAMP’s upcoming Annual General Meeting.
KAMP Chairperson Angela Ndambuki emphasized its commitment to safeguarding right holders’ interests. “Today’s payout does not include performers’ royalties since we are awaiting PAVRISK’s declaration of performer funds, which also covers KAMP’s performer share. We have, however, already initiated the necessary invoicing process. It is important to note that KAMP is actively challenging KECOBO’s decision to mandate performer licensing through PAVRISK, as the law rightfully places this responsibility with KAMP.”
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The event was graced by Principal Secretary for Youth Affairs and the Creative Economy, Fikirini Jacobs, who commended the role of CMOs in uplifting Kenyan creatives. “The Creative Industry Bill will provide clear structures to ensure every creative earns a decent living. We want this sector to contribute to the economy the way it does in developed nations,” PS Jacobs said.
He said the government will streamline regulation to eliminate cartels and ensure fairness for creatives.
At its April 2024 SGM, KAMP achieved a performance ratio of 61:39, distributing KSh 17,126,454.89 to members while keeping operational costs at 39%. According to the IFPI Global Music Report 2025, streaming accounted for 83% (US$4 million) of Kenya’s sound recording market in 2024.
KAMP said lack of support from KECOBO in securing PSV licensing partnerships with NTSA has cost the industry over Ksh 500 million annually in potential revenue. KAMP has requested Ministry intervention as it pursues this vital income stream.
The organization also raised concern over KECOBO’s issuance of “copyright compliance certificates” to non-compliant broadcasters and content providers. It says it views this as undermining enforcement efforts and devaluing creators’ work. Legal steps have been initiated to address the matter.
KAMP Chief Executive Officer, Maurice Okoth, reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to accountability: “Our mission is to ensure effective royalty collection and equitable distribution. We believe government regulation must align with global best practices, and we look forward to the review of CMO regulations once the Copyright Bill is passed.”
As part of its governance reforms, KAMP has engaged Grant Thornton as its independent auditor, strengthening trust with members through transparent financial reporting. KAMP is currently applying for the renewal of its license and is confident of securing a full-year license following its landmark High Court victory in April 2025, which affirmed its legitimacy as a rights management body.
KAMP was issued with a provisional license on 5th May 2025 following a High Court ruling in April dismissing KECOBO’s appeal against the Copyright Tribunal’s earlier decision in KAMP’s favor (September 2024).
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