MultiChoice Namibia, together with the Business and Intellectual Property Authority (BIPA), the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB), Namibia Film Commission (NFC) and Co-Creation Hub launched Partners Against Piracy (PAP) – a pan-African initiative aimed at combating one of the most fundamental issues in the creative sector; content piracy.
At the event, Claudia Capelao, NIPDB Manager of MSME Ecosystem Optimization, shared key points regarding piracy, including the economic implications and efforts towards advocating for stronger laws and better enforcement to deter piracy.
“Piracy results in a massive financial drain on the creative economy, affecting not just the creators but the entire support ecosystem,” said Capelao. “It is a significant threat, but with collective effort and innovative solutions, it can be combated. Protecting entrepreneurs and the creative industry is crucial for preserving cultural heritage and ensuring future growth.”
The event included a panel discussion of experts such as Yolanda Kalenga, Chief Legal Officer at the Office of the Attorney-General and Admitted Legal Practitioner at the High Court of Namibia, Ainna Kaundu, BIPA Intellectual Property Executive, Wycliffe Kauuova, MultiChoice Namibia Field Services and Piracy Officer, Efraim Vilho, CC Hub Community Manager, and Hertha Katjivena, Namibia Film Commission Media Officer.
“The reason that we are able to watch free movies or distribute music on platforms such as WhatsApp is not necessarily because of technology, but because our moral compass does not tell us that something is wrong with this,” said Kaundu. “In a global setting, there is a gravitation towards seeing piracy as a serious crime. This is not just about an unauthorized usage or distribution of content – it takes away the incentive of one having to invest in creativity.”
The discussion also touched on the laws in place that prevent piracy, the need for more data regarding piracy in Namibia, and success stories on anti-piracy initiatives that MultiChoice Namibia have undertaken.
By ethically consuming content, it would help sustain the creative industry and support the dreams and jobs of many individuals.
“Every start-up thrives on innovation and creativity. That’s how they survive,” said Vilho. “Piracy poses a threat. Startups need to understand that the unauthorized sharing of products in the market affects your market competitiveness and leads to revenue loss. Protect your intellectual property.”
Closing off the session, MultiChoice Namibia Managing Director, Roger Gertze, thanked all partners for their insights and contributions on piracy.
“MultiChoice, as an industry leader, recognises the profound impact of such partnerships and their ability to connect diverse audiences on a global scale,” he said.
With the EURO 2024 kicking off on Friday, 14 June, Gertze mentioned that MultiChoice proudly stands as the official broadcast partner which will further celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship of such global events.
“Studies have shown that pirated streams and downloads disrupt every facet of the production value chain, directly threatening those who create and deliver content, and MultiChoice Namibia remains resolute in its determination to combat this threat.”
To play your part in combating piracy, the public is encouraged to go to the police, dial the Anti-Piracy Hotline at +27112892684 or email NamAntiPiracy@na.multichoice.com.
-Multichoice