The National Assembly's Sports and Culture Committee, chaired by Hon. Daniel Wanyama, convened a meeting with musicians and performers from across the country. The objective of the meeting was to receive submissions from the musicians regarding their concerns about industry regulator Kenya Copyright Board (KECOBO).

Todays meeting was prompted by a case involving KECOBO and three collective management organizations (CMOs) - Performers Rights Society of Kenya (PRISK), Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK), and Kenya Association of Music Producers (KAMP). The CMOs accused the regulator of losing KES 67 million in artist royalties.

During the meeting, the artists had the opportunity to share their grievances with Members of the Committee. The artists thanked the legislators for recognizing their struggles and giving them a platform to voice their concerns. 

In their submissions, they accused KECOBO's Executive Director of frustrating them in their efforts to collect their dues, and blamed the regulator's internal battles and refusal to grant licenses to the CMOs as the main reasons for the non-payment of royalties.

In his response, Hon. Wanyama noted that the Government had failed to support the artists. He promised the Committee would take action to ensure that the artists receive the compensation they deserve. 

Hon. Wanyama acknowledged that KECOBO was operating illegally since it did not have a Board of Directors. He promised to draft a Bill that would establish a more effective regulatory framework for the entertainment industry in Kenya.

“We will ensure that a well-structured and articulate Bill is passed by the House to guide this industry as per the law. The Government is in place to create a conducive environment to allow you to do what you are supposed to do," said Hon. Wanyama.

Matungulu MP Hon. Stephen Mule pledged to support the musicians in their fight for fair compensation and urged the CMOs to improve their operations to ensure that artists' rights are respected.

The meeting is seen as a positive step forward for the artists and the entertainment industry in Kenya. The Committee's commitment to addressing their concerns and creating a more favorable regulatory environment is a promising sign for the future of music and culture in the country