Zicco Begins 2026 With Governance-Focused Board Meeting to Strengthen Artist Benefits
The Zimbabwe Council of Copyrights has officially begun its 2026 operations with a strategic board meeting centred on governance, operational alignment, and improved benefits for artistes. The meeting marked a key starting point for the new year as the organisation seeks to strengthen its role within Zimbabwe’s creative sector. It also served as an orientation session for newly elected board members who assumed office after the annual general meeting held in Bulawayo last year. Through this engagement, Zicco aimed to ensure that all board members share a clear understanding of their responsibilities and strategic priorities. The focus on structure and accountability signalled a deliberate move toward institutional stability.
As part of the programme, the new board, chaired by Thabiso Moyo, met with the chief registrar in the Department of Deeds, Companies and Intellectual Property, Willie Mushayi. The registrar urged the board to prioritise good governance, professionalism, ethical conduct, harmony, and strict adherence to the law. This interaction was designed to align the organisation’s operations with national regulatory expectations from the outset of the year. The registrar’s guidance reinforced the importance of compliance and transparency in managing a collective management organisation. The meeting also highlighted the role of regulators in shaping a credible and accountable creative industry.
Following the engagement, Moyo said the meeting with the chief registrar was critical in setting the tone for the year ahead. She described the discussion as constructive and essential in laying a solid administrative foundation for 2026. Moyo explained that the meeting was particularly important because several board members are new and were elected in line with the organisation’s constitution. She noted that Zicco elects a new board every year, making orientation and guidance a necessary step. According to Moyo, the engagement helped the board gain clarity on how to conduct itself and operate properly within the industry.
Looking ahead, Moyo said the board would focus on resolving outstanding matters from the previous year. She highlighted priorities such as improving the disbursement of royalties, advancing the Nyabira project, and rolling out nationwide roadshows. These initiatives are intended to strengthen Zicco’s visibility and effectiveness among artistes across the country. Moyo added that the broader goal is to position Zicco as the leading music collective management organisation in Zimbabwe. She stressed that clearing unfinished business is essential to restoring confidence and delivering tangible value to members.
Board member and veteran musician Chase Skuza said the board’s approach aligns with the expectations of the creative sector. He stated that the board is committed to raising standards for artistes and improving royalty payouts. Skuza also highlighted strengthened social support systems introduced by Zicco, including medical, funeral, and legal cover for members. He said these initiatives reflect a broader understanding of artistes’ welfare beyond music income alone. In addition, he noted that Zicco is pursuing investment opportunities outside music to ensure long-term financial sustainability for artistes.
Zicco chief executive officer Tafadzwa Masembura said management has been directed to expand income-generating projects. He confirmed that this includes farming initiatives in Nyabira as part of efforts to diversify revenue streams. Masembura added that further steps will be taken to ensure the board is fully prepared to execute its mandate effectively. He said a comprehensive induction workshop is scheduled to equip board members with the tools and knowledge needed to perform their duties. According to Masembura, transparency, accountability, respect, faithfulness, and adherence to the law form the core values that define Zicco’s operations.
Industry observers say Zicco’s early engagement with regulators and strong emphasis on governance will be closely watched by artistes and stakeholders. Many see this approach as a positive signal for improved remuneration and institutional stability within Zimbabwe’s creative sector. The focus on accountability and income diversification is expected to influence confidence among rights holders. As 2026 unfolds, Zicco’s ability to translate policy direction into practical outcomes will be a key measure of its success. The board’s early actions suggest a clear intention to reset, rebuild, and deliver measurable benefits for artistes.
