By a Correspondent
The Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (ZIMURA) is facing mounting criticism following claims that it contributed just US$80 towards the medical expenses of late sungura music icon Madzibaba Nicholas (pictured) Zakaria, despite allegations that the organisation had more than US$2 million in its bank accounts.
The allegation was made by former ZIMURA board member Gift Amuli, who has accused the copyright collective management organisation of failing to adequately support one of Zimbabwe’s most influential musicians during his final days.
Amuli made the claims following his controversial removal from the ZIMURA board, as the organisation continues to face a wider governance crisis that has generated concern within Zimbabwe’s arts sector.
According to Amuli, ZIMURA had substantial financial reserves but provided only US$80 towards Zakaria’s medical expenses when the veteran musician was seriously ill.
Zakaria, popularly known as Madzibaba Nicholas Zakaria, was a pioneering figure in Zimbabwean sungura music and played a major role in mentoring musicians who went on to become prominent names in the industry, including Alick Macheso.
The claim has triggered anger among some musicians, music promoters and fans, who argue that ZIMURA should do more to support the artists whose intellectual property generates the royalties they collect.
Critics have for years raised concerns about the administration of musicians’ royalties in Zimbabwe, including the transparency of royalty distributions, administrative expenditure and the welfare of ageing or financially vulnerable artists.
ZIMURA is responsible for collecting and distributing royalties arising from the use of copyrighted musical works on behalf of rights holders. The organisation has previously maintained that it operates within its legal mandate and works to protect the interests of musicians, composers and publishers.
The latest controversy has nevertheless intensified scrutiny of the organisation, particularly over claims about its financial position and the level of assistance extended to musicians in distress.
Amuli’s allegations come amid broader disputes over governance at ZIMURA, including calls for greater financial transparency, independent audits and changes to the organisation’s leadership structures.
The US$80 contribution has become a focal point in those wider concerns, with artists and other stakeholders demanding an explanation of how ZIMURA determines financial assistance to musicians and how its resources are being managed.
