By Desire Tshuma
HARARE — The Zimbabwe Council of Copyrights (ZICCO) last Thursday celebrated the birthday of its Chief Executive Officer, Dr T. Masembura, honouring a leader whose stewardship has become synonymous with the protection of creators’ rights and the growth of Zimbabwe’s creative economy.
The occasion, marked on Thursday, October 8, 2026, drew tributes from the ZICCO Board, management, staff and members of the creative community, who described Dr Masembura as a transformational figure whose dedication continues to shape the country’s intellectual property landscape.
Since taking the helm at ZICCO, Dr Masembura has championed a culture where creativity is respected, intellectual property is protected and artists, innovators and creators can earn sustainable livelihoods from their work. His leadership has been credited with strengthening the institution’s mandate to defend creators, while pushing for greater recognition of Zimbabwean talent at home and abroad.
Colleagues say his vision and unwavering commitment to creators have left a lasting impact on the sector, particularly at a time when copyright protection and fair remuneration have become central to the survival of artists in a fast-changing digital economy.
Founded in February 2023, ZICCO is a Collective Management Organisation mandated to collect, manage and distribute royalties on behalf of copyright holders, while protecting their works against infringement, counterfeiting and piracy. It represents artistes, composers, producers and arts associations across the country, and has grown to over 2,200 registered members nationwide.
Beyond royalties, the organisation offers educational workshops, legal support and licensing services, works with law enforcement to combat piracy, and is rolling out income-generating projects such as poultry and agriculture to help creators build sustainable livelihoods beyond live performances.
In its birthday message, ZICCO said Dr Masembura’s journey reflects purposeful leadership and a deep belief in the power of Zimbabwean creativity. The organisation wished him renewed strength, wisdom, good health and greater achievements in the year ahead.
“May your vision continue to inspire those around you and may your journey ahead be marked by even greater milestones,” the organisation said in its tribute.
Dr Masembura’s tenure has also been associated with a renewed push to empower creators through awareness, education and advocacy, ensuring that musicians, writers, filmmakers and other creatives understand and benefit from their intellectual property rights.
As he celebrated another year, the creative community he serves says it remains grateful for a leader who continues to stand for creators and to build an industry where Zimbabwean creativity can thrive.