BY NED GAGAHE
Ministry of Culture and Tourism (MCT) is set to launch the country’s first-ever Collective Management Organization (CMO) on Wednesday, 21st May, marking a major milestone for the Solomon Islands’ creative sector.
The Solomon Islands Performing Rights Organization (SIPRO) is the first CMO to be established in the country.
Key highlights will include the official unveiling of the SIPRO logo and banner as well as the signing of the founding certificate.
A Collective Management Organization, also known as a collecting society, is responsible for licensing copyright and related rights on behalf of creators such as musicians, composers, writers, visual artists, and producers.
Director of Culture, Dennis Marita, said SIPRO represents a significant step in strengthening the country’s music sector.
“This initiative represents a long-awaited advancement in ensuring that our talented musicians and music producers receive the recognition and financial benefits they deserve for their creative works,” Marita said.
“Aligned with the provisions of the Copyright Act and intellectual property laws, SIPRO will also contribute to generating vital revenue for the country’s economy. Given the richness of artistic talent in our music sector, SIPRO aims to safeguard the economic interests of creators and producers, fostering sustainable growth and development in our cultural industries.”
Earlier this year, from 3rd to 10th February, the MCT and the UNESCO Office in Apia, Samoa, co-hosted a six-day workshop focused on copyright in music.
The idea to establish SIPRO emerged from discussions during the workshop, highlighting the need for a structured system to protect artists’ rights and enable them to earn a sustainable income from their creative work.
Marita said that following that workshop, MCT and Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs have been collaborating working on the establishment of the CMO until its successful establishment.
“Our two ministries have been collaboratively working on the establishment of a Collective Management Organization (CMO) for the Solomon Islands, aimed at managing the rights and royalties of our local musicians both locally and internationally.
“With the support of international partners such as UNESCO and the Fiji Performing Rights Association (FPRA), we are set to officially launch SIPRO on Wednesday next week at the National Art Gallery.” Mr Marita said.
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