Copyright in Africa

Adams & Adams has a dedicated team of attorneys specialising in all aspects of copyright, across the continent.

Our copyright law services include identifying rights of copyright, advising on copyright ownership as well as advising on and handling of transactions involving rights of copyright. These transactions include licensing and transfer of ownership or assignment agreements, as well as enforcement work such as issuing infringement notices and prosecuting formal proceedings in Court.

By way of example, we were proud to represent Sam Nzima who took the famous photograph of Hector Pietersen being carried by a fellow student after he was shot. In Mr. Nzima’s words:

“I saw a child fall down. Under a shower of bullets I rushed forward and went for the picture. It had been a peaceful march, the children were told to disperse, they started singing Nkosi Sikelele. The police were ordered to shoot.”

In our capacity as Africa’s largest intellectual property law firm, we were involved in facilitating the return of copyright of this famous photograph to Mr. Nzima. Adams & Adams also assisted with the placement of that copyright in a trust, ensuring that Mr. Nzima’s family will benefit from it in years to come.

This case really cuts to the heart of how important a copyright can be: capturing powerful moments and ensuring that those who created them and their families get the benefit they deserve.