Sabastian Magacha Ordered to Pay US$200 Child Maintenance Despite Low Earnings
Sabastian Magacha Ordered to Pay US$200 Child Maintenance Despite Low Earnings
Gospel musician Sabastian Magacha has been ordered to pay US$200 per month in child maintenance—a decision that raised eyebrows after he revealed just how little he earns from his music.
During a hearing at the Harare Civil Court, Magacha told the court that he earns as little as 33 cents a day, or US$10 a month, from royalties collected by the Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (ZIMURA). Over the entire year, he received only US$120 from ZIMURA, despite his music being played across various platforms, including radio and digital streaming services.
Sabastian Magacha Ordered to Pay US$200 Child Maintenance
The maintenance case had originally drawn public attention because of the accusations from Magacha’s baby mama, who claimed he was neglecting their six-year-old child. But as the court proceedings progressed, the spotlight gradually shifted to the shocking reality of just how little the artist makes from his own music.
Under oath, Magacha shared details of his earnings, making it clear he was not hiding anything. In his affidavit, he explained that gospel music is his only job and that he earns around US$500 a month, though much of that income is unpredictable.
“I am not formally employed and I am a gospel artist. That is my source of income and I have no other source of income,” he stated in court.
He also submitted a statement from ZIMURA showing his net annual earnings of US$120 for the whole of 2024 — an amount many would consider unthinkable for a household name in Zimbabwean gospel music.
If Magacha Gets $120, What About Lesser-Known Artists?
The revelation has now triggered a broader conversation about how much local artists are actually earning from their work. If someone as established as Magacha is only getting US$120 a year from ZIMURA, what about those without his fame or following?
The figure has left many stunned, raising tough questions about whether artists are being properly compensated for the use of their music.
While the child support case is now settled — with Magacha expected to contribute US$200 monthly — the court testimony has opened a new and uncomfortable chapter in the ongoing debate about artists’ rights and earnings in Zimbabwe.
