The Kenyan music industry has long struggled with issues of fair compensation, lack of transparency, and imbalanced contracts that favor intermediaries over the creators themselves. But recent changes to the law—specifically Section 30C of the Kenya Copyright Act—signal a major turning point.
For artists, producers, composers, and all copyright holders in a song, this provision offers a real opportunity to earn what they deserve, especially from one of Kenya’s most widely used music monetization tools: ring back tunes, popularly known as Skiza.
Let’s break down what Section 30C means—and why it could make the Kenyan music industry more vibrant, sustainable, and rewarding for creators.
What Does Section 30C Say?
Section 30C of the Kenya Copyright Act (as amended) mandates how revenue from ring back tunes should be shared. It states that, after taxes, the revenue should be distributed as follows:
- 8.5% to the Premium Rate Service Provider (e.g., the content provider who uploads music to the Skiza platform)
- 39.5% to the telecommunication operator (e.g., Safaricom)
- Not less than 52% to the artist or copyright owner
Furthermore:
- All new contracts must conform to this revenue split.
- The telco (e.g., Safaricom) must pay the artist directly, bypassing any intermediaries.
Why Is This a Game-Changer for the Industry?
✅ 1. Fair Pay for Creators
For years, many artists in Kenya earned a fraction of Skiza revenues—often as little as 10–20%—with the rest going to intermediaries. Section 30C now guarantees that the largest share (at least 52%) goes to the people who created the music. This means songwriters, composers, producers, and performers can now look forward to actual income from their creativity.
✅ 2. Direct Payment Reduces Exploitation
By requiring that artists be paid directly by the telco, the law eliminates revenue leakage through middlemen who delay, reduce, or withhold payments. This makes the system more transparent and gives artists control over their earnings.
✅ 3. Encourages Professional Collaboration
When copyright owners know they’ll be compensated fairly, they’re more likely to invest time and effort into music creation. Split sheets become more valuable, ensuring everyone involved—from beat producers to lyricists—can share in Skiza income. This strengthens trust and professionalism within the industry.
✅ 4. Attracts Investment into Music
Clear legal protections and direct earning potential make Kenya’s music industry more appealing to investors, labels, and international platforms. As creators start seeing real returns, the ecosystem becomes more sustainable, attracting better equipment, talent development, and music business services.
✅ 5. Supports Creative Independence
Artists who were once forced to sign exploitative contracts just to access Skiza can now remain independent and still earn from their work. With a fair revenue model and direct payment structure, they no longer need to surrender rights just to get on the platform.
✅ 6. Boosts Revenue Across the Industry
A better share for artists means more incentive to market Skiza tunes, create quality content, and engage fans. As popularity rises, so does usage—which benefits not just creators, but the entire value chain, including telcos and platforms.
But Implementation Is Key
While Section 30C is a progressive legal step, its full impact depends on enforcement:
- Telcos must build systems that enable accurate and transparent direct payments.
- Content providers must align new contracts with the law.
- Artists and copyright owners must understand their rights, ensure their split sheets are in order, and register their ownership properly.
- Regulators like KECOBO must actively monitor compliance and penalize violators.
Conclusion: A Brighter Future for Kenyan Music
Section 30C is more than just legal text—it is a powerful lever for change. When implemented effectively, it ensures that creativity is rewarded, collaboration is respected, and music becomes a viable career for thousands of Kenyans.
This provision has the potential to unleash new energy into the Kenyan music industry, spur economic growth, and uplift the lives of the artists behind the soundtracks of our lives.
Dear artist, composer, or producer—if you’ve ever felt short-changed by the system, now is your time. Know your rights. Document your contributions. And claim your share.
The law is now on your side.
