Recent updates from the Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) include achieving a record R429 million in royalty payouts and double-digit revenue growth in 2024, with plans to reach R1.2 billion in revenue and R1 billion in royalty distributions by 2028. However, the organization has also been addressing internal governance issues, including public board divisions, and recently announced that its Chairperson, Nicholas Maweni, will be stepping down on October 1, 2025. Separately, SAMRO is actively engaged in advocating for members regarding the Copyright Amendment Bill and has invested R3 million in its 2025 Music Creation Support Fund.
Financial and operational updates
- Financial records: SAMRO reported record achievements in 2024, paying out R429 million in royalties and collecting R684 million in licensing fees.
- Future targets: The organization has set a new strategic goal to reach R1.2 billion in revenue and distribute R1 billion in royalties by 2028.
- System upgrades: SAMRO has upgraded its core IT systems to improve efficiency in finance, licensing, and distribution.
- Unclaimed royalties: The organization distributed R14.9 million in unclaimed royalties and has a process for members to check for and claim royalties they may be owed.
Governance and internal matters
- Board changes: Chairperson Nicholas Maweni is set to step down on October 1, 2025.
- Board division: The organization is currently dealing with public disputes and divisions within its board, which is a matter being addressed by the board and its members.
- Forensic investigation: The organization is cooperating with law enforcement in connection with a forensic investigation into allegations of fraudulent claims from an undocumented works fund.
Member support and advocacy
- Music Creation Support Fund: SAMRO is investing R3 million in grants of up to R25,000 per member for the 2025 funding cycle to support the creation of new works.
- Copyright Amendment Bill: SAMRO has raised concerns about the Copyright Amendment Bill, specifically the “Fair Use” provision, and its potential impact on creators and copyright holders.
How to find more information
- For updates and official statements, visit the SAMRO website.
- To check for unclaimed royalties, use the dedicated portal on the SAMRO website.
- To find information on how to update your banking details, search for resources on the SAMRO website or YouTube.
- To book an appointment, use the booking system on the SAMRO website
