The Eswatini Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Society (ESWACOS) has taken part in a Knowledge Exchange Programme hosted by the South African Music Performance Rights Association (SAMPRA), alongside sister organisations NASCAM of Namibia and LESCOSAA of Lesotho.
Held from 13 to 16 April 2026, the programme brought together collective management organisations from across Southern Africa for discussions and practical learning sessions focused on strengthening the administration of neighbouring rights in the region.
ESWACOS was represented by its Executive Director and Licensing Officer, who engaged with regional counterparts on a range of issues including improving licensing systems, enhancing royalty distribution processes, strengthening governance and compliance frameworks, and advancing collaboration in mechanical and neighbouring rights management. The programme also covered innovative approaches to artist welfare, including social and development support programmes for performers.
For ESWACOS, the engagement is seen as a key step forward in strengthening partnerships with organisations such as SAMPRA and CAPASSO, while also improving internal systems for more efficient licensing, greater transparency and better service to rights holders in Eswatini.
The society said what stood out most during the programme was the shared regional commitment to building fairer systems that protect creators and ensure they are properly recognised and remunerated for their work.
ESWACOS used the opportunity to encourage all users of copyrighted works in Eswatini to take up a licence with the society as part of efforts to support and sustain the local creative industry.
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