KAMP releases Sh7.25 million in Q1 royalty payouts to rights holders

Kenya’s music and copyright industry has received a boost after KAMP Copyright and Related Rights Limited rolled out its Quarter One (Q1) distribution programme, releasing more than Sh7.25 million to members and rights holders.

KAMP said it has distributed 70 per cent of its Q1 collections, amounting to Sh7,254,790, under its approved distribution framework and in line with regulatory requirements.

The payout marks the first phase of the organisation’s annual distribution cycle and is expected to benefit both local and international rights holders represented by the collective management organisation.

KAMP noted that the distribution, commonly referred to as Pay for Investment Distribution, has been carried out under both the General Distribution Framework and the Catalogue-Based Distribution Framework.

According to the organisation, the model is designed to ensure royalties are allocated fairly based on approved rules, catalogue declarations, ownership records and other eligibility criteria. As a result, members will receive varying payouts.

“Individual member payouts will vary depending on the size, scope and eligibility of catalogues represented within KAMP’s records, as well as the applicable distribution method,” the organisation said.

KAMP emphasised that the current payout is not the final distribution for the year, with additional phases scheduled under its approved calendar.

The organisation further clarified that the exercise covers both local and international repertoires under reciprocal agreements, meaning qualifying foreign rights holders administered by KAMP will also benefit.

It said the move reflects its commitment to meeting local and international obligations while strengthening confidence in Kenya’s collective rights management system.

Looking ahead, KAMP said a Scientific Distribution phase will be undertaken in the second half of the year, using media usage data such as broadcast airplay and other approved metrics to guide royalty allocations.

The organisation described the payout as a key milestone in its efforts to ensure revenues collected on behalf of members are distributed in a timely, transparent and accountable manner.

However, KAMP acknowledged that ongoing regulatory challenges continue to limit its ability to maximise collections and generate higher returns for members.

“KAMP firmly believes that its members deserve to receive the maximum value generated from the use of their works. However, ongoing regulatory challenges have limited the organisation’s ability to fully realise this potential during the current licensing period,” the statement said.

Despite these challenges, KAMP said it remains committed to strengthening licensing efforts, improving member services and pursuing legal and other remedies to boost collections and future distributions.