SAMRO Chairman Nicholas Maweni
By Mpho Moloi
Nicholas Maweni, the long-serving chairman of the Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO), has announced his resignation effective 1 October 2025, bowing to intense pressure from shareholders demanding his removal. The decision, confirmed in a statement on Wednesday, 24 September 2025, at 4:01 PM SAST, comes despite SAMRO’s impressive financial performance under his leadership, including a record R429.2 million in royalty distributions to members in 2024. Maweni, who led the organisation for nearly seven years, cited personal reasons and the toll of recent controversies, but the move follows months of scrutiny over governance issues and allegations of corruption. As South Africa celebrates Heritage Day, this shake-up in the music industry reflects the ongoing struggle to balance financial success with accountability, a theme resonant with the nation’s journey toward fairness and unity.
The resignation caps a turbulent period for SAMRO, marked by shareholder unrest and forensic investigations into millions looted, spotlighting the need for transparent leadership in cultural institutions.
Shareholder Pressure and Resignation Details
Maweni’s exit was prompted by growing calls from SAMRO members, including artists and composers, who demanded his ouster during an extraordinary general meeting (EGM) in August 2025.
The pressure intensified after a Fundudzi Forensic Services report revealed R60 million in irregular royalty claims, with R3.4 million flagged as fraudulent between 2020-2022. Shareholders accused Maweni of failing to address these issues transparently, despite his efforts to commission the investigation.
In his resignation letter, Maweni expressed pride in SAMRO’s achievements: “I am incredibly proud that we built a Samro that is both commercially and sustainably sound… Samro stands ready to achieve the magical milestone of R1-billion in revenue.” However, he acknowledged the personal strain, noting the “pain” of recent controversies. His departure follows that of board members Dr Sibongile Vilakazi and Veronica Motloutsi, who resigned earlier this month.
Financial Success Amid Governance Scandals
Under Maweni’s tenure, SAMRO hit significant milestones, distributing R429.2 million in royalties in 2024—a 15.4% increase in licence revenue—and reducing the cost-to-income ratio to 22.8% from 40%. He highlighted innovations like high-tech royalty tracking and the first woman-led executive team in 2023.
Yet, these gains were overshadowed by scandals. The Fundudzi report pointed to R60 million looted, with some board members implicated, leading to resignations and calls for Maweni’s head.
Musicians stormed a September 2025 press briefing, demanding unpaid royalties, adding to the unrest.
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