The Kenyan government has approved new Consolidated Music and Audio-Visual Works Tariffs for 2026–2028.
They include licensing fees for businesses and organizations that use copyrighted content, including music and Videos.
These tariffs are gazetted under the Copyright Act and aim to streamline royalty payments and ensure fair compensation for creators, performers, and producers.
The new schedule replaces the 2023 tariffs and will remain in effect from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2028. The new tariffs will replace the 2023 tariffs and will be effective from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2028.
Government Approves New Copyright Tariffs for 2026–2028
According to the Performing and Audio-Visual Rights Society of Kenya (PAVRISK), the new tariffs were approved by the Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, Salim Mvurya, under section46A of the Copyright Act (Cap. 130).
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They apply to all entities that publicly perform, broadcast, distribute, or commercially use music and audio-visual works.
Under the new framework, licensing is consolidated into a single system covering:
- Music creators and publishers
- Performers and producers
- Audio-visual producers, scriptwriters, and actors
- Digital and broadcast platforms
The revised tariffs are administered through licensed Collective Management Organizations, including PAVRISK, which operates as a one-stop multi-rights agency.
Key Tariff Categories and Charges
The new tariffs introduce standardized fees for various industries and business sectors.
Business and Entertainment Tariffs
| Category | Classification | Tariff |
| Amusement Parks | CMT 2 | KSh 40,000 (Cities), KSh 25,000 (Other Areas) |
| Private Clubs | CMT 5 | KSh 100,000 (Cities), KSh 75,000 (Other Areas) |
| Nightclubs & Casinos | CMT 6 | 60% of Single Business Permit |
| Mobile DJs | CMT 10 | KSh 30,000 (Annual), KSh 1,000 (Per Event) |
| Live Bands | CMT 12 | KSh 50,000 (Cities), KSh 20,000 (Other Areas) |
| Concerts | CMT 13 | KSh 50,000 (Local), KSh 100,000 (International) |
Hospitality and Retail Tariffs
| Category | Classification | Tariff |
| Bars & Restaurants | CMT 8 | 60% of Single Business Permit |
| Hotels & Lodges | CMT 9 | 60% of Single Business Permit |
| Salons & Barber Shops | CMT 17 | KSh 5,000 (Cities), KSh 3,000 (Other Areas) |
| Supermarkets (Above 5000 sq.ft) | CMT 18 | KSh 200,000 (Cities), KSh 150,000 (Other Areas) |
| Banking Halls & Gyms | CMT 16 | KSh 25,000 (Cities), KSh 15,000 (Other Areas) |
Broadcasting and Digital Media Tariffs
| Category | Classification | Tariff |
| National Radio | CMT 19 | 4% of Net Revenue (Min. KSh 500,000) |
| National TV | CMT 19 | 4% of Net Revenue (Min. KSh 400,000) |
| Community Radio | CMT 19 | 4% of Net Revenue (Min. KSh 160,000) |
| Pay TV | CMT 19 | KSh 750,000 |
| Digital/OTT Platforms | CMT 19 | KSh 250,000 |
| New Media Services | CMT 24 | 9% of Gross Revenue (Min. KSh 300,000) |
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Compliance Rules, Penalties, and Industry Impact
The tariffs include clear guidelines on payment and enforcement.
All invoices must be settled within 30 days, except for daily events such as roadshows and promotional activities, which require immediate payment.
Failure to pay on time attracts a 5% monthly compounded penalty, and each license is valid for one year from the date of issue.
The regulations also define broadcasters by reach:
- National broadcasters: Beyond five counties
- Regional broadcasters: Within five counties
- Community broadcasters: Registered community stations
Payment Modes
PAVRISK also stated on payment of the Unified Copyright License (UCL), which includes:
M-Pesa:
- Paybill number: 4136329
- Account number: Invoice number
Bank Transfer (EFT/RTGS/PESALINK):
- Account name: PAVRISK – Collection Account
- Bank name: KCB
- Bank branch: KCB Hurlingham
- Account number: 1327020157
- Swift code: KCBLKENX
- Bank code: 01
Cheque:
- All cheques are payable to: PAVRISK
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