By Dudu Dube | 2025-03-18

April will be a significant month for ESWACOS as they aim to complete the final draft of music tariffs.
Executive Director of the Eswatini Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Society (ESWACOS) Mmeli Hlanze shared important developments regarding the organisation's efforts to finalise music tariffs, which are crucial for the protection of copyright holders in the country.

Hlanze emphasised the importance of stakeholder engagement in this process, laying out the steps that would lead to the creation of a finalised music tariff schedule. The final music tariff schedule will be developed based on feedback from stakeholders, which is vital for ensuring that all voices are heard in the process.

He said after the draft was presented to the public on November 5, 2024 at the Hilton Garden Inn, there had been various consultations with stakeholders.
The final draft is due to be submitted at the end of March and it will undergo a review by the ministry of commerce, industry and trade.

While Hlanze did not provide a specific date for approval of the final music tariffs, he expressed optimism about the process moving quickly once the ministry gave the green light.
Hlanze noted that they had already commenced licensing negotiations with several broadcasters. He said these negotiations were progressing positively, with many broadcasters already agreeing to licensing terms.

He said as April approached, artists could expect several pivotal developments, including the collection of music licenses and reporting of music usage by users such as broadcasters.

Hlanze confirmed that once the music tariffs were finalised and approved, ESWACOS would begin the collection and reporting process for royalties and the payment mechanisms.
“This is a critical step in ensuring that artists receive compensation for their works. It is essential for broadcasters to inform ESWACOS about the music they are playing on air, especially when it involves local artists. This accountability will enable ESWACOS to make accurate calculations and distribute royalties fairly.

The payment structure for royalties will be dictated by the various license agreements established with each broadcaster,” he added.
Hlanze mentioned that collections for the usage of music could happen monthly, quarterly or annually, depending on what was agreed upon.

He reiterated the mission of ESWACOS to ensure that creators receive fair remuneration for their works and to promote awareness about copyright protection.
The organisation plays a crucial role in advancing the economic interests of copyright holders, fostering an environment conducive to innovation and creativity.
By protecting copyright and neighbouring rights, ESWACOS aims to drive economic growth by creating jobs, attracting investment, and enhancing the cultural identity of Eswatini.

Hlanze said they were committed to transparent and efficient royalty collection.
“As ESWACOS moves forward with its plans for tariff finalisation in April, local artists can anticipate a more structured and supportive framework for the protection of their rights.

Through effective licensing agreements and transparent collection processes, ESWACOS is poised to empower creators and enhance the overall creative landscape in Eswatini,” he added.

Artists can also look forward to the distribution of music royalties within the 2025/26 financial year, which is a monumental step towards ensuring music creators and artists make a living from the use of their works.

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