Popular Zimbabwean gospel artist Sabastian Magacha has stunned many with his revelation that he earned a mere US$120 in royalties for the entire year of 2024, equivalent to just 33 cents a day. Magacha made this disclosure during a child maintenance hearing at the Harare Civil Court, where he was ordered to pay US$200 per month in support for his six-year-old child. Despite his limited income, the court ruled that Magacha must prioritize his child’s welfare.
The low royalty payout from the Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (ZIMURA) has raised uncomfortable questions about the music industry’s compensation structures. Magacha, who relies solely on his music for income, told the court that his monthly earnings are around US$500. The paltry US$120 payout for 2024 has sparked debate, with many questioning how a recognizable artist like Magacha can earn so little from his craft.
The case highlights a broader issue affecting Zimbabwe’s music industry. If a well-known artist like Magacha receives such a meager payout, it’s likely that lesser-known artists are receiving even less or nothing at all. The ruling has sparked a conversation about the need for fair compensation for artists and the role of organizations like ZIMURA in protecting their rights.
Dandaro Online, Zimbabwe Latest Entertainment News
