Story by Online Reporter
THE Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (ZIMURA), which has in recent weeks been embroiled in disputes with sections of its membership over royalty distributions, governance and transparency, has announced the immediate resignation of its long-serving Executive Director, Mrs Polisile Ncube Chimhini.
In a statement issued this Tuesday, the ZIMURA Board said Mrs Chimhini had “concluded her tenure as Executive Director of the Association, effective immediately,” following what it described as a period of engagement and reflection.
“This follows a period of engagement and reflection, during which Mrs Chimhini indicated her intention to pursue other professional avenues after many years of dedicated service to the Association and the broader intellectual property sector,” the Board said.
Mrs Chimhini’s departure brings to an end a 30-year career at ZIMURA, during which she played a central role in shaping the organisation and advancing music copyright administration in Zimbabwe. The Board credited her with strengthening the Association’s regional and international standing.
“Over this period, she played a pivotal role in shaping the Association and advancing music copyright administration in Zimbabwe and beyond,” the statement said. “She represented the country with distinction on regional and international platforms.”
Mrs Chimhini also served as Chairperson of the CISAC African Chapter, a role that, according to the Board, “cemented her standing as a respected leader and authority in intellectual property matters”.
The Board acknowledged her “immense contribution, institutional knowledge, and technical expertise”, saying these had been “instrumental in the growth and visibility of ZIMURA over the years”.
Her exit comes at a sensitive time for the Association, which has faced sustained criticism from musicians and rights holders demanding greater accountability in royalty collections and distributions, as well as reforms in governance structures.
Seeking to reassure stakeholders, the Board said the transition would not disrupt operations.
“The transition is being managed in a structured and professional manner,” the statement said, adding that “the Association’s operations will continue under the oversight of the Board and the existing management team”.
It said further announcements on leadership arrangements would be made “in due course”.
The Board concluded by extending “its sincere gratitude to Mrs Chimhini for her long and distinguished service” and wishing her “every success as she embarks on the next chapter of her professional journey”.
