Creatives call for protection

By Jimmy Chazama:

Artists from various disciplines including writers, filmmakers, musicians and poets Thursday took time out to call for protection of their works for them to profit from their toil.

Their call was made at Civo Stadium in Lilongwe when the country led by Copyright Society of Malawi (Cosoma) joined the rest of the world in celebrating the World Book and Copyright Day.

The creatives observed that with technology evolving, their works were under threat hence there was need to put up proper protection systems to curtail illegal use coupled with massive awareness programmes.

“Protecting creativity matters, you talk of books, films, music, poetry and other products. Creatives invest a lot and expect to benefit and yet there are others out there who are into piracy and usage of works without consent,” Film Association of Malawi (Fama) Secretary General Ignatius Scott Kaphinde.

The actor and playwright said that while the industry is growing, piracy remains a huge challenge.

“Cosoma has a lot of work to do but as artists we also need to take lead by registering our works to avoid some of these challenges,” he said.

Musician Sean Morgan said the commemoration reinforced the importance of legal rights for artists.

“This day has made me realise that we do have legal rights as far as copyright is concerned and how we can protect our work,” the maker of ‘Ndamva’ said.

Writer Sydney Namaumbo said the day was a reminder to protect intellectual property.

“It takes a lot to publish a book but with technology there is a lot of photocopying and sharing without consent, our works need to be safeguarded,” Namaumbo said.

He also called for support from publishers saying many writers were failing to publish because of high costs.

Cosoma Executive Director Dora Makwinja said they will not relent in their protection and promotion of creative works.

“We have made strides but we still need to do more as far as making people understand issues of copyright,” Makwinja said.

Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Alfred Gangata, who was the guest of honour said literacy and access to knowledge remain fundamental pillars for building a wealthy and self-reliant nation.

“Creative works such as books equip us with the skills and ideas needed to drive economic growth and social progress. The protection of copyright ensures that artists are rewarded for their efforts, which in turn encourages continued innovation,” Gangata said.

Held under the theme ‘Literacy and languages: Access to Books and Copyright Awareness for All’, the commemoration started with a road show before a combo of other activities at Civo Stadium.