By BANO NEWS
Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (ZIMURA) spokesperson Alexio Gwenzi, popularly known as Goodchild, has issued a strong rebuttal to online criticism surrounding the US$500 incapacitation allowance granted to Sungura legend Nicholas "Madzibaba" Zakaria.
In a detailed Facebook post, Goodchild condemned what he described as “so-called online journalists-bloggers” for lacking ethics and professionalism in their coverage of the issue. He criticized them for spreading misinformation and failing to present both sides of the story.
“The same journalists were at the forefront of spreading lies about ZIMURA during the cover bands' $150 issue. It’s truly pathetic!” Goodchild stated.
Goodchild explained that the USD $500 allowance is an incapacitation benefit provided to any ZIMURA member who, due to illness or injury, can no longer perform and support their family. He emphasized that this allowance was approved democratically at ZIMURA’s Annual General Meeting by the membership.
He further clarified that the incapacitation allowance is just one of several social benefits ZIMURA offers to its over 5,000 members. Other benefits include gratuities for members reaching retirement age after 20 continuous years of membership and funeral assistance.
“ZIMURA spends a significant amount each year on these benefits, which are outside our core mandate and reduce the royalties available to members,” Goodchild noted.
The spokesperson encouraged musicians to form strong unions that can provide additional support during vulnerable times.
Goodchild concluded by restating ZIMURA’s primary role as a Collective Management Organisation: to collect revenues from music users and distribute royalties to its members.
“I hope this puts the matter to rest,” he said.
This response comes amid growing public debate over musician welfare and transparency within rights organizations, highlighting the need for better communication and understanding of industry processes.
