Music Business Academy for Africa and SACEM Partnership Empower Next Generation of Creators
Elizabeth Antidius Shumbusho | Africa Guardian
The Music Business Academy for Africa (MBAA), in collaboration with SACEM, recently hosted a groundbreaking workshop at Alliance Francaise in Ikoyi, Lagos. The event focused on the crucial role of Performance Rights Organizations (PROs) in Africa’s Francophone and Anglophone music markets, addressing key topics like music rights, royalty collection, and the challenges faced by creators in both regions. The goal was to find solutions that would streamline and improve the efficiency of the music industry across these diverse markets.
Godwin Tom, Founder of the Music Business Academy for Africa and Managing Director of Sony Music Publishing, West Africa, kicked off the event with a welcome address that set the tone for a series of insightful discussions on the evolving role of PROs in the African music landscape.
The workshop consisted of two sessions, moderated by Victor Ekpo and Nkechukwu Otike-Obidi, respectively. Session 1, led by Victor Ekpo, Senior Legal and Business Manager at Zaeda Oracle, delved into the vital role PROs play in ensuring creators receive fair compensation for their work. Panelists included Isioma Alexis Idigbe, Partner at Punuka Attorneys & Solicitors; Mayowa Ayilaran, Director-General of MCSN; Godwin Tom, Managing Director of Sony Music Publishing, West Africa; and Akochaye Okio, SACEM’s International Development Officer for Africa. Their discussions highlighted the importance of strong legal frameworks in protecting music creators’ rights. Contributions from SACEM, COSON, and MCSN representatives reinforced this message, emphasizing the need for effective legal structures in the industry.
In Session 2, moderated by Nkechukwu Otike-Obidi, Senior Counsel at Papaya Studios, panelists explored the unique challenges and opportunities African music creators face, such as cross-border licensing, economic disparities, and infrastructure deficiencies in royalty collection across both Francophone and Anglophone regions. A lively debate ensued about bridging the gap between the two markets, with input from Kizito of MAVIN Records, Olayinka Ezekiel of Digital Music Commerce and Exchange Ltd, and Chinedu Angus Chukwuji, CEO of PurpleBlue Entertainment Solutions Ltd.
The workshop highlighted SACEM’s dedication to supporting authors, composers, and music publishers. Akochaye Okio, SACEM’s International Development Officer for Africa, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership with MBAA: “This collaboration will enable SACEM to contribute to empowering the next generation of creators and professionals in Nigeria. It will also help bridge the gap between the local industry and the international market. By working with MBAA, SACEM aims to unlock the vast potential of Nigeria and Africa, allowing songwriters, producers, and publishers to thrive.”
The partnership between SACEM and MBAA is a strategic alignment that reflects both organizations’ shared vision of enhancing the African music and entertainment industry. MBAA’s Assistant Programme Director, Pokyes Jan, affirmed the significance of the event: “Our collaboration with SACEM underscores our commitment to providing valuable opportunities and information to our alumni and community in both Anglophone and Francophone markets.”
Kini-Abasi Edet, Head of Operations at MBAA, also highlighted the importance of the event: “The SACEM workshop was a pivotal moment for the Music Business Academy for Africa. The discussions among stakeholders illuminated critical aspects of PROs and their evolving role in the African music markets. This collaboration reinforces our mission to equip talent with the knowledge and networks necessary for sustainable industry growth.”
The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session, allowing attendees to engage directly with panelists. The closing remarks reinforced the importance of continued collaboration between the African and global music industries to ensure ongoing growth and innovation.
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