JOHANNESBURG, 19 September 2025: The Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) today announced that its Chairperson, Nicholas Maweni, will be stepping down from his position on 01 October 2025, concluding a nearly seven-year tenure.

Under his leadership, SAMRO achieved historic financial milestones. In 2024, the organisation reported a 15.4% increase in total licence revenue and distributed a recordbreaking R429.2 million in royalties to its members. At the same time, his focus on operational efficiency reduced SAMRO’s cost-to-income ratio to its lowest level in a decade, falling from 40% seven years ago to 22.8%.

“Mr Maweni’s leadership has been nothing short of transformative,” said Sisa Mayekiso, Vice Chairperson and Lead Independent Director of SAMRO.

“He took on the challenge of leading this organisation during a difficult period and, through his unwavering commitment to good governance and his strategic vision, delivered remarkable results. Board meetings and AGMs were often robust, yet always effective and efficient. His legacy is one of strength, integrity, and a deep commitment to the creators of music. We are privileged to have benefited from his service and wish him the very best”.

Looking ahead, the organisation is focused on ensuring that it remains well-governed, transparent, and responsive to its members, while building on the successes achieved in recent years. The Board will also initiate the process of filling vacant positions to ensure that the organisation is fully equipped to drive its next chapter of growth.

Mr Maweni will continue to lead the Board until 1 October 2025 to ensure a smooth and orderly transition.

ISSUED BY SAMRO

For media enquiries, please email media@samro.org.za