The management of copyright and neighboring rights in Cameroon faces significant challenges, prompting stakeholders to propose solutions. According to journalist and author Justin Blaise Akono, difficulties in collecting royalties have been persistent. He recommends that daily management be entrusted to competent general directors under the supervision of council of administration presidents. This, he believes, will help improve the collection and distribution of royalties.
André Bang, president of the Civil Society of Literary and Dramatic Arts Rights (Sociladra), advocates for capacity building for responsible parties. He suggests that training in copyright, accounting, financial management, and governance, with support from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), would enhance control over activities and distributions. Additionally, agents of the ministerial control commission and collection agents should receive better training to effectively carry out their duties.
Artist and musician Antoine Aimé Ngon Tchoy emphasizes the need for transparency in the collection and distribution of royalties. He proposes that collectors be issued professional cards, public tariffs be established, and electronic receipts be provided. Regular publication of accounts and independent audits would also help verify the sums collected and redistributed. This, he believes, will foster trust among stakeholders and improve the overall management of copyright.
Technology is also seen as a potential solution to the challenges facing copyright management in Cameroon. The use of fingerprinting, which recognizes audio content, could help identify broadcast works and facilitate the collection of royalties. This approach could reduce the incidence of piracy and improve the accuracy of royalty collection.
The professionalization of leadership and staff is critical to improving copyright management in Cameroon. Better-trained leaders and staff would be more effective in collecting and distributing royalties. Moreover, the use of digital tools would enhance the efficiency and transparency of the process. Stakeholders believe that these measures would help to build trust and confidence in the management of copyright.
The WIPO has been approached to provide support for capacity building and the implementation of digital tools. The organization has a track record of providing technical assistance to countries in the region. Its involvement could help to accelerate the implementation of solutions and improve the overall management of copyright in Cameroon.
The implementation of these solutions will require a collaborative effort from stakeholders, including government agencies, artists, and collectors. Effective communication and coordination will be essential to ensure that the proposed solutions are implemented successfully. With a concerted effort, Cameroon can improve the management of copyright and neighboring rights, ultimately benefiting artists and creators.
Key points
- - Professionalization of leadership and staff is critical to improving copyright management - Technology, such as fingerprinting, can enhance the efficiency and transparency of royalty collection - Capacity building and support from WIPO can help implement solutions
