Kenya Copyright Board

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Overview

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info@copyright.go.ke

The Kenya Copyright Board (KECOBO) was established in 2005 under the Copyright Act No. 12 of 2001. Its mandate is to enforce and administer copyright laws in Kenya, promoting the protection of intellectual property rights for authors, artists, and creators. The Board’s roles include registering works, issuing licenses for public performance, collecting royalties, and ensuring compliance with copyright law. KECOBO also educates the public on intellectual property rights, handles disputes, and collaborates with international bodies to protect Kenyan creators globally. It aims to enhance the value of creative works in the economy.

CEO: George Nyakweba

Mr. George Nyakweba is the Acting Executive Director of the Kenya Copyright Board (KECOBO). He holds a law degree and has over 15 years of experience in intellectual property management, having worked with various legal institutions. His expertise includes copyright enforcement, policy development, and advocacy for intellectual property rights.

Management Team

George Nyakweba

Ag. Executive Director

Fredrick Mutuku

Deputy Executive Director, Corporate Services

Sharon Chahale Wata

Deputy Executive Director, Training and Research

Cyrus Kinyungu

Head of Communications

George Njoroge

Head of ICT

Ketty Arucy

Head of HR

Mutegi Rinkanya

Head of Enforcement

John Karuri

Head of Procurement

Elijah Mwangi

Head of Internal Audit

Board of Governors

Joshua Kutuny

Chairman

Christopher Maina

Director

Functions

  • Enforcing Copyright Laws: KECOBO is responsible for ensuring that the provisions of the Copyright Act of Kenya (2001) are adhered to, providing a legal framework for the protection of creative works and intellectual property rights.
  • Registration of Copyrighted Works: KECOBO facilitates the registration of various creative works, including music, books, films, software, and visual art, allowing creators to assert their ownership.
  • Issuing Licenses for Public Performances: The Board grants licenses to entities wishing to perform or use copyrighted works, such as broadcasters and event organizers, ensuring that copyright holders are compensated.
  • Royalty Collection and Distribution: KECOBO plays a key role in collecting and distributing royalties on behalf of rights holders, ensuring fair compensation for the use of their works.
  • Public Awareness and Education: KECOBO conducts educational campaigns aimed at informing the public and creators about copyright laws, intellectual property rights, and the importance of protecting creative works.
  • Dispute Resolution: The Board resolves conflicts related to copyright infringement, helping to mediate between rights holders, infringers, and consumers of copyrighted content.
  • Monitoring Compliance: KECOBO ensures that businesses, institutions, and individuals comply with copyright regulations, undertaking regular monitoring and enforcement actions against infringement.
  • International Cooperation: The Board collaborates with global copyright bodies, like the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), to protect Kenyan creators’ works internationally and to harmonize local laws with international standards.
  • Protecting Moral and Economic Rights: KECOBO safeguards the moral and economic rights of authors and creators, preventing unauthorized use, alteration, or reproduction of their works.
  • Advocacy for the Creative Industry: The Board advocates for the development of policies and regulations that support the growth of the creative industries in Kenya, enhancing their role in the national economy.

Important Links

Address & Contacts

  • 5th Floor NHIF Building – Community Ragati Road/Ngong Road
  • 34670 – 00100 Nairobi – Kenya
  • info@copyright.go.ke
  • Corruption Email: corruption@copyright.go.ke
  • (+254) 20 2533869/59
  • Corruption Hotline: (+254) 0703885033