Musicians drilled in copyright, intellectual property rights

Musician and copyright training specialist Khama Khwiliro has launched an initiative to equip artists with knowledge and practical information on copyright and intellectual rights .

The engagements are under a national project dubbed ‘Enhancing copyright awareness and compliance through community trainings and creative outreach, with funding from the Copyright Fund.

In an interview yesterday, Khwiliro said the project seeks to take copyright education directly to artists within their communities, particularly those who may have limited access to information and professional guidance on copyright matters.

“The community training focuses on key areas of the creative industry, including intellectual property rights, copyright protection, royalties, licensing and compliance. The initiative aims to help artists understand their rights, responsibilities and the systems that govern the use and commercialisation of their creative works,” he said.

Khwiliro said community-based engagements can play an important role in bridging the information and communication gap that has existed between artists and the operations of the Copyright Society of Malawi.

He said: “One of the issues that continue to generate concern among artists is the understanding of how royalties are calculated, collected and distributed. Many artists have questions about the processes involved, their entitlements and the mechanisms through which their creative works generate income.”

Khwiliro held his second training in Kasungu on Friday after the first engagement in Mangochi two weeks ago.

He said that it is important that copyright information should not concentrate in urban centres or among a small group of established artists.

“As Malawi’s creative industry continues to grow, increasing copyright awareness among artists is essential to build a more professional, sustainable and financially rewarding sector. Better-informed artists are also better positioned to protect their work, negotiate fair agreements and hold relevant stakeholders accountable,” said Khwiliro.

One of the participants, Kasungu-based musician Mirriam Ishmael said the training is an eye-opener and important in helping artists understand copyright and intellectual rights.

“The industry is progressing and as artists we need all the knowledge to position us to make better and informed decisions. The creative space will benefit a lot if we are equipped with better information,” she said.

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