The Performing and Audio-Visual Rights Society of Kenya (PAVRISK) has launched a fresh enforcement campaign targeting businesses that play music or display audiovisual content without a Unified Copyright License (UCL).
In a public notice dated July 17, PAVRISK announced it had started issuing invoices to establishments across Kenya that publicly use music and audiovisual material.
The agency said this licensing initiative is in accordance with the Copyright Act, Cap 130, and is regulated by 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,” said the management of PAVRISK in a statement.
According to the notice, businesses that use copyrighted content, whether for ambiance, promotion, or entertainment, must obtain a UCL.
These include, but are not limited to, hotels, bars, gyms, salons, shopping malls, clubs, restaurants, medical facilities, cinemas, broadcasters, telecom firms, showrooms, and event organizers.
“PAVRISK reminds businesses that the issued invoices must be paid within 30 calendar days from the date of issuance,” the statement reads.
“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.”
PAVRISK also cautioned against giving cash to field officers.
“Our Copyright Licensing Officers are not permitted to collect cash payments under any circumstances,” the management emphasized.
“They carry official PAVRISK identification and should be engaged with professionalism and courtesy.”
To acquire a copyright license, businesses are advised to dial *USSD 553# or visit the online portal: https://license.pavrisk.or.ke.
