The real issue: Broadcasters must prioritise Namibian music to uplift creatives
OPINION
Nascam chair Suleiman Kyababa says it is time for Namibian creatives to unite and raise their voices against the unfair practices of broadcasters as well as for government to expedite measures aimed at uplifting the creative sector.
A recent article published by Namibian Sun, though intended as an April Fool's joke, raises critical issues that need to be addressed regarding the Namibian creative industry.
The article implied that the Namibian Society of Composers and Authors of Music (Nascam) distributed 99.5% of collected royalties to foreign countries, with only 0.5% going to local artists.
While this carries some truth, it is a direct consequence of the high rotation of foreign music on Namibian radio stations compared to local music.
The more airplay a song receives, the more royalties it generates, and since international music dominates our airwaves, foreign rights holders receive the majority of the royalties. It is essential to clarify our role and redirect the conversation to the real issue at hand, the failure of broadcasters to prioritise Namibian music.
Firstly, Nascam is not responsible for enforcing quotas on how much local music broadcasters must play. Our primary mandate is to collect and distribute royalties for composers and authors of music. Regulatory bodies such as the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) and the Ministry of Information, Communication and Technology (MICT) are responsible for ensuring that local content is promoted and protected. It is crucial that these institutions take stronger action in implementing policies that encourage the fair play of Namibian music.
For years, local broadcasters have given a significantly higher percentage of airtime to international music than local content. This has had devastating effects on the Namibian creative industry, both financially and mentally. Many artists struggle to earn sustainable incomes, leading to financial instability, depression and, in some cases, withdrawal from the industry altogether.
A lack of local music on airwaves has also led to a decline in attendance at local concerts and music events, further crippling the industry’s growth.
We appreciate the efforts of artists like Big Ben, Patrick of PDK, Fidel and Andre Gariseb, who have taken the initiative to educate fellow creatives through WhatsApp groups and other platforms. Their contributions help artists better understand the role of Nascam and the broader industry challenges. However, it is important that the entire creative community comes together to fight for meaningful change.
Advocate for fair play
We urge Namibian creatives to unite and raise their voices against the unfair practices of broadcasters. Artists should strongly consider joining the Oruuano Artist Union, which is mandated to advocate for their rights and push for policy changes that benefit the industry. Additionally, broadcasters should invest in automated systems that accurately track and register all music played, ensuring transparency in royalty distribution.
Furthermore, we call upon the new government to intervene and expedite measures aimed at uplifting the creative sector.
Stronger policies, active enforcement of local content quotas and investments in the arts can transform the industry into a thriving sector that benefits not only musicians but the entire Namibian economy.
Finally, we encourage artists to produce high-quality music that meets international standards and to aggressively promote their work locally and beyond. The world must hear the Namibian sound, and it starts with us taking the necessary steps to ensure our voices are amplified. It is time for action. Let’s stand together for a stronger Namibian music industry.
*Suleiman Kyababa is a music executive and Nascam chairman.
The article implied that the Namibian Society of Composers and Authors of Music (Nascam) distributed 99.5% of collected royalties to foreign countries, with only 0.5% going to local artists.
While this carries some truth, it is a direct consequence of the high rotation of foreign music on Namibian radio stations compared to local music.
The more airplay a song receives, the more royalties it generates, and since international music dominates our airwaves, foreign rights holders receive the majority of the royalties. It is essential to clarify our role and redirect the conversation to the real issue at hand, the failure of broadcasters to prioritise Namibian music.
Firstly, Nascam is not responsible for enforcing quotas on how much local music broadcasters must play. Our primary mandate is to collect and distribute royalties for composers and authors of music. Regulatory bodies such as the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) and the Ministry of Information, Communication and Technology (MICT) are responsible for ensuring that local content is promoted and protected. It is crucial that these institutions take stronger action in implementing policies that encourage the fair play of Namibian music.
For years, local broadcasters have given a significantly higher percentage of airtime to international music than local content. This has had devastating effects on the Namibian creative industry, both financially and mentally. Many artists struggle to earn sustainable incomes, leading to financial instability, depression and, in some cases, withdrawal from the industry altogether.
A lack of local music on airwaves has also led to a decline in attendance at local concerts and music events, further crippling the industry’s growth.
We appreciate the efforts of artists like Big Ben, Patrick of PDK, Fidel and Andre Gariseb, who have taken the initiative to educate fellow creatives through WhatsApp groups and other platforms. Their contributions help artists better understand the role of Nascam and the broader industry challenges. However, it is important that the entire creative community comes together to fight for meaningful change.
Advocate for fair play
We urge Namibian creatives to unite and raise their voices against the unfair practices of broadcasters. Artists should strongly consider joining the Oruuano Artist Union, which is mandated to advocate for their rights and push for policy changes that benefit the industry. Additionally, broadcasters should invest in automated systems that accurately track and register all music played, ensuring transparency in royalty distribution.
Furthermore, we call upon the new government to intervene and expedite measures aimed at uplifting the creative sector.
Stronger policies, active enforcement of local content quotas and investments in the arts can transform the industry into a thriving sector that benefits not only musicians but the entire Namibian economy.
Finally, we encourage artists to produce high-quality music that meets international standards and to aggressively promote their work locally and beyond. The world must hear the Namibian sound, and it starts with us taking the necessary steps to ensure our voices are amplified. It is time for action. Let’s stand together for a stronger Namibian music industry.
*Suleiman Kyababa is a music executive and Nascam chairman.
Comments
Namibian Sun
No comments have been left on this article