More than 350 copyright works have now been formally registered under the Eswatini Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Society (ESWACOS), marking a major milestone in the country’s efforts to build a functioning creative economy and prepare for royalty distributions to local creators.
This was revealed by ESWACOS Executive Director, Mmeli Hlanze, during the commemoration of World Book and Copyright Day 2026 held at the George Hotel in Manzini under the theme “Promoting SiSwati Stories in the Digital Age.”
Hlanze said ESWACOS has so far registered 122 rights holders and received over 300 applications from creators across the country as the organisation intensifies efforts to formalise copyright ownership and monetisation systems.
“We have moved from foundation-building into implementation. We have moved from awareness into action. We have moved from explaining why copyright matters, to building the systems that make copyright work,” said Hlanze.
He described copyright as “economic infrastructure” that connects creativity with income and investment.
“The numbers are more than administrative statistics. They represent creators who are beginning to formalise their creative assets,” he said.
To improve access to registration services, Hlanze said ESWACOS launched an online registration platform called Bhalisa in October last year, allowing creators to register their works remotely.
He said the platform was designed to ensure that creators from all four regions are able to participate in the copyright system without needing to physically visit ESWACOS offices.
“An artist in Lavumisa, a writer in Siteki, a producer in Piggs Peak, or a performer in Nhlangano can begin the process of registration without being excluded by distance,” he said.
Hlanze revealed that ESWACOS aims to increase the number of registered rights holders to at least 500 by the end of the year.
He also announced that the organisation has officially commenced licensing activities following the approval of music tariffs by the Copyright Office in late 2025.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade, the Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade, Dr Tambo Gina said government sees the creative sector as an important contributor to economic growth, youth empowerment and cultural preservation. He noted that the digital age presents significant opportunities for emaSwati creators to share authentic local stories with global audiences while generating economic value from their creativity.
“Creativity can only thrive where creators are respected, protected and fairly rewarded,” he said.
He also commended ESWACOS and the Copyright Office for strengthening copyright administration, licensing and royalty systems in the country.
“These efforts are essential in ensuring that artists and creators are able to benefit economically from their talent and hard work,” he said.