By Rinelda Mouton
Through the UNESCO-supported Planning, Research, Training and Information Centre (PRTIC), the Namibian Society of Composers and Authors of Music (Nascam) is developing a nationwide copyright awareness initiative aimed at making copyright information more accessible to Namibians, particularly musicians and other creators.
Leake Ileka, the project manager at NASCAM said the project will simplify key copyright concepts and develop educational materials that explain copyright in clear, practical language.
He said materials will be translated into selected Namibian languages to improve understanding and access to copyright information.
“The project intends to prioritise several of Namibia’s most widely spoken languages such as Afrikaans, Otjiherero, Damara/ Nama, Oshiwambo and Silozi,” he said.
Ileka said by making copyright information available in clear language NASCAM hopes to improve copyright literacy, encourage informed decision-making, strengthen respect for intellectual property rights and empower creators to better manage and protect their works throughout their careers.
Ileka said the objective is to make copyright information easier to understand by presenting it in languages that many creators use in their daily lives.
He explained that while the translations will not replace legal advice or the legislation itself, they will provide practical guidance on copyright fundamentals and help reduce language barriers that often limit access to legal information.
“A successful music career depends not only on talent but also on understanding the business and legal aspects of the creative industry. Many creators have limited access to copyright education, and legal information is often perceived as complex or inaccessible,” Ileka said.
