The Performing and Audio-Visual Rights Society of Kenya (PAVRISK) has kicked off a fresh nationwide enforcement campaign against businesses that use music or audiovisual content without a valid Unified Copyright License (UCL).
In a public notice dated July 17, PAVRISK confirmed it has begun issuing invoices to businesses across Kenya that publicly play music or screen audiovisual materials.
The agency explained that this licensing drive follows the Copyright Act, Cap 130, and falls under the regulation of the Kenya Copyright Board (KECOBO).
“This initiative forms part of our routine licensing process. It ensures legal compliance and the equitable compensation of artists, producers, and creators,” PAVRISK stated.
The notice pointed out that any business using copyrighted music or audiovisual works, either for atmosphere, customer engagement, or entertainment, needs to obtain a UCL in order to operate its business within the law.
PAVRISK listed a wide range of businesses that must obtain the Unified Copyright License (UCL), including hotels, bars, gyms, salons, shopping malls, clubs, restaurants, hospitals, cinemas, broadcasters, telecom companies, showrooms, and event organizers.
PAVRISK Issues 30-Day Notice
The society said all targeted businesses must settle their invoices within 30 calendar days of issuance.
“Upon expiry of this period, we are obligated to issue a formal Demand Notice, and where necessary, initiate enforcement proceedings as provided for under Kenyan copyright law,” the statement warned.
PAVRISK also warned businesses not to hand over cash to licensing officers under any circumstances.
“Our Copyright Licensing Officers are strictly prohibited from collecting cash payments,” the management noted. “They carry official PAVRISK identification and should be engaged with professionalism and courtesy.”
To obtain a license, businesses can *dial 553# on their phone or visit the PAVRISK online portal at: https://license.pavrisk.or.ke.
PAVRISK called on business owners and managers who need help to approach them directly for advice.
The society reiterated its resolve to implement copyright law as well as promote Kenya’s creative economy.
“This license supports the sustainability of Kenya’s creative economy while protecting users from legal liability,” the agency stated.
PAVRISK defended its nationwide enforcement campaign as a necessary move toward a freer and fairer licensing atmosphere.
“We remain committed to fairness, transparency, and revitalizing royalty collection to benefit Kenya’s entire creative industry,” the statement emphasized.
