Take a copyright dispute to the Copyright Tribunal
Judiciary Tribunals · sources read 3 Oct 2026
For a dispute over copyright registration, fair pay for music used in a broadcast, or a collecting society (CMO) refusing a licence or setting unfair terms, send a written application to the Copyright Tribunal explaining the dispute and what you want. Email: copyright@court.go.ke.
- Fee
- We couldn't confirm a fee from the official page. Check it there before you pay.
- Where
- Copyright Tribunal, Kenya Re Towers, Upper Hill, Nairobi. Email copyright@court.go.ke. Filing is on the Judiciary e-filing portal (efiling.court.go.ke).
What you need
- A written application explaining the dispute and the remedy you want
Steps
- Write an application to the Copyright Tribunal setting out what the dispute is about and what you want the Tribunal to order.
- File it on the Judiciary e-filing portal (efiling.court.go.ke), which all tribunals use.
- Can't file online? The tribunal registry will help you file. You can also email copyright@court.go.ke.
Watch out
- There is a filing fee, but the Tribunal's FAQ doesn't give the amount. Ask the registry before you file.
- Worried the other side will hide or destroy evidence of infringement? The Tribunal can issue an Anton Piller order to preserve it.
- Unhappy with the decision? You can appeal to the High Court within the time set by the Copyright Act.
Who can apply
- Anyone affected by a decision or action under the Copyright Act, including authors, creators, publishers, producers and collecting societies (CMOs).
- Disputes about copyright registration, fair compensation for a work used in a broadcast, and licensing.
- Appeals against the Kenya Copyright Board (KECOBO), for example a CMO refused a registration certificate, or a CMO unreasonably refusing a licence or setting unreasonable terms.
Official sources (4)
- Tribunals Frequently Asked Questions tribunals.judiciary.go.ke · read 3 Oct 2026
- Know Your Tribunals tribunals.judiciary.go.ke · read 3 Oct 2026
- Tribunals website (contacts) tribunals.judiciary.go.ke · read 3 Oct 2026
- Tribunals Registry Operations Manual (2023) tribunals.judiciary.go.ke · read 3 Oct 2026