Legislative Milestone Within Reach
A long-overdue boost for Uganda’s creative sector could be on the horizon as the Copyright Amendment Bill inches closer to becoming law. Eddy Kenzo, president of the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF), has expressed optimism that the bill will be passed before Parliament breaks for recess.
Kenzo confirmed that the bill has already been officially gazetted and will soon be reviewed by the appropriate parliamentary committee. Once it clears the committee stage, it is expected to move to the floor for debate and voting. If approved, the bill will be sent to President Yoweri Museveni for assent.
“I am confident this will be done before Parliament takes recess. Hon. Mao is already engaging the committee—it’s in motion,” Kenzo said.
A Boost for Creatives and Copyright Holders
The proposed amendments are designed to strengthen copyright protections and ensure that artists and content creators receive fair compensation for the use of their work. The law is especially significant for Uganda’s music industry, which has faced persistent challenges around piracy, unauthorized use of content, and weak enforcement mechanisms.
Copyright Management System on the Horizon
Adding to the positive developments, Kenzo revealed that a national Copyright Management System is also in the pipeline. The system will help track the usage of creative works and manage royalty distribution—a vital step toward creating transparency and accountability in the industry.
Recent Legal Victories Underscore Urgency
This legislative push comes amid growing concerns over intellectual property rights in Uganda. Recently, the High Court ordered Black Market Records to pay artist Bruno K UGX 130 million for copyright infringement—a ruling that highlights the need for stronger legal protections and enforcement.
Industry Support and Expectations
The Copyright and Neighbouring Rights (Amendment) Bill 2024, which received Cabinet approval in December last year, has garnered widespread backing from stakeholders in the creative sector. Many view its passage as a turning point for local talent and a critical step in formalizing Uganda’s cultural economy.
Looking Ahead
If passed, the law will not only safeguard artists’ rights but also foster an environment that promotes innovation, investment, and long-term sustainability in Uganda’s entertainment industry.
Stay connected to Kampala Edge Times for the latest updates on Uganda’s copyright reform and more developments in the creative sector.
