The Supreme Court delivered a decisive ruling reinforcing the Zimbabwe Music Rights Association’s (ZIMURA) authority over music licensing, countering claims by the Zimbabwe Council of Copyright Owners (ZICCO) that it had won a major legal victory.
ZIMURA said the judgment validates its position as the sole legitimate body authorized to license the public performance of its members’ works. “The Supreme Court has confirmed that the original High Court order did not match what was requested. The matter has been referred back to ensure a Declaratory Order is issued confirming that ZICCO has no right to license ZIMURA’s repertoire,” the association stated.
The legal dispute began when ZIMURA sought a Declaratory Order from the High Court clarifying that ZICCO has no authority over its music and that of its international affiliates under CISAC (The International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers). While the High Court initially issued an Interdict barring ZICCO from licensing copyrighted music, it did not grant the full declaratory relief ZIMURA requested. A cross-appeal was filed to correct this technical issue.
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According to ZIMURA, the Supreme Court ruling partially succeeded in sending the matter back to the High Court to correct the order, effectively strengthening ZIMURA’s authority. “We remain confident that when Judge Mafusire re-determines the matter, the final order will unequivocally affirm that ZICCO has no authority over music owned by ZIMURA and its affiliates,” said the association
ZIMURA urged the public and music users to disregard ZICCO’s claims, describing them as “deceptive propaganda” and reiterating that ZIMURA remains the sole body mandated to license public performance of its members’ works.
The ruling marks a major legal affirmation for ZIMURA, reinforcing its role as the custodian of music rights for thousands of Zimbabwean artists.
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