The Copyright Society of Malawi (Cosoma) has distributed a record K1.8 billion in blank media levy royalties to local musicians and actors, according to Nyasa Times. The payout covers artistic works used between April 2025 and March 2026 and represents a K800 million increase over the previous year's distribution, the publication notes. The funds were handed out during a formal presentation ceremony in Lilongwe.
Top earners in the music category for this cycle include Phyzix, Onesimus, Zeze Kingston, Driemo, Kelly Kay, Saint, and the late Lucius Banda, whose estate received a posthumous payout, Nyasa Times reports. In the film sector, actress Joyce Chavula was named among the highest earners. Chavula stated that the financial compensation validates the hard work required in local filmmaking, according to the outlet. During the event, Cosoma Executive Director Dora Makwinja addressed circulating rumors about the levy and urged artists to rely on credible sources for information regarding their royalty payments, Nyasa Times reports.