Musicians Frustrated by Zimura Board's Appointment Delays

Zimura's Leadership Delay Sparks Frustration Among Musicians

The newly elected Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (Zimura) board, which was voted in on promises of transparency, accountability, and improved royalty management, has faced early criticism for delaying the announcement of its new chairperson. This delay has dampened the initial optimism among musicians, who had hoped for a fresh start for the collective management organisation (CMO). Instead, the slow pace and lack of communication from the board have raised concerns that it is already contradicting its campaign pledges.

During the election period, the incoming board committed to greater openness, regular engagement with musicians, and reforms to royalty distribution. However, many artistes now feel that the momentum is fading, and their expectations are not being met.

Chiundura-based musician Nesbert Ushe expressed his disappointment, stating, “We expected to find glory in the effort we made as musicians, but what follows are regrets because no change has been seen.” He described the situation as a recurring pattern in Zimura’s leadership transitions, highlighting the frustration felt by many in the industry.

Several other musicians echoed similar concerns, noting that communication between the board and artistes has been sluggish, while key priorities appear to have shifted. A group of Gweru-based artists, who requested anonymity, urged the board to act swiftly, saying, “It’s important that the board quickly reconnects with musicians if they are to retain the goodwill they gained during the campaign.”

They added, “Musicians are desperate for positive change. At this moment, any small delay feels like a major setback. The board must communicate clearly and show progress before disappointment sets in fully.”

In response to these concerns, artistes are calling for an urgent public update from Zimura’s leadership. They are demanding a 90-day plan, timelines for reforms, and a schedule for stakeholder engagements. These steps are seen as essential to rebuilding trust and demonstrating the board’s commitment to its promises.

Recent Developments and Board Composition

Meanwhile, the new board recently underwent orientation with Vertical Momentum, and Zimura played a key role as Zimbabwe hosted the annual regional meeting of the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC) Africa Committee (CAF) from 11–13 November in Harare.

A Zimura official, who declined to be named, said the board chairperson and deputy will be announced once internal processes are completed. “We expect the announcement to be made at the next board meeting, whose date is yet to be set,” the official said.

The leadership delay follows the recent appointment of Chiedza Shoniwa as legal advisor and Evelyn Natsai Moyo as treasurer—two additions expected to strengthen a board previously criticized for being overly patriarchal. Their inclusion brings the total number of board members to seven.

Looking Ahead

As Zimbabwean musicians continue to push for reform and better governance within the industry, all eyes remain on Zimura’s next move, which many hope will restore confidence and set the tone for a more transparent era.