Music streaming service Mdundo has disbursed more than Ksh.103 million (USD 800,000) in royalties for the last six months of 2024. This marks another milestone for the platform, which continues to provide a sustainable income source for musicians across the continent.
The payout process, which began in January 2025, covers the July-December 2024 period. With over 38.7 million active monthly users, Mdundo has positioned itself as a major player in Africa’s digital music landscape. Since its inception, the platform has paid royalties to more than 200,000 artists, with numbers steadily growing with each payout cycle.
Mdundo CEO Martin Nielsen reaffirmed the company’s dedication to the welfare of African musicians, stating, “Our mission has always been to offer African artists a sustainable platform to thrive. By delivering consistent and substantial earnings, we are contributing to the growth of individual artists while supporting the long-term development of the African music industry as a whole.”
The streaming giant continues to distinguish itself with its artist-focused model. Unlike traditional streaming services that often favor global mainstream artists, Mdundo emphasizes local and independent musicians, ensuring fair compensation and greater exposure. This approach aligns with its broader vision of strengthening Africa’s creative industry by providing legal and structured income channels for artists.
Phiona Nafuna, Head of Licensing at Mdundo, reiterated this commitment: “Mdundo remains focused on empowering African musicians by ensuring fair and timely compensation. This is central to our mission to support artists, enhance the structure of the music industry, and contribute to the growing legal and financial framework within the sector.”
Looking ahead, Mdundo aims to increase its royalty disbursements to between USD 1.5 million (Ksh.193 million) and USD 2 million (Ksh.258 million) by 2026. This growth strategy will prioritize hyperlocal artists, ensuring that lesser-known musicians receive the financial backing needed to expand their reach and sustain their careers.
As the African music industry continues to evolve in the digital era, platforms like Mdundo play a crucial role in bridging the gap between artists and financial sustainability. By ensuring timely payments and advocating for fair compensation structures, Mdundo is shaping a future where African artists can thrive both creatively and financially.
