Zimbabwe: Zimura Fights in Fungisai Mashavave's Corner Amid Copyright Dispute With Intotal Band

What the report says

Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (ZIMURA) has publicly backed gospel singer Fungisai Mashavave in an ongoing dispute with Intotal Band over the use of songs from her catalogue, according to a report distributed by AllAfrica from New Zimbabwe. The issue centers on allegations that the cover band has commercially performed music linked to Mashavave without the appropriate permissions or licensing, while the band says its Legends Night appearances are intended to celebrate music icons.

In its statement, ZIMURA said Mashavave, as a member, is entitled to protection of her intellectual property rights and that it cannot support the commercial use of a member’s copyrighted works when the rights holder has objected and licensing requirements have not been resolved. The association also said its support for Mashavave should not be read as a judgment on any future court case.

The dispute comes as Intotal Band faces scrutiny over performances linked to the Ecobank Legends Night initiative, which has also featured or planned appearances by several well-known regional artists. The report says the band has performed at multiple events and is preparing for another Legends Night. The matter highlights broader copyright concerns in Zimbabwe’s music sector, especially around cover performances, event branding and the use of artists’ work in commercial settings.