Uganda’s music industry is set for a major legal transformation as proposed amendments to the Copyright Law gain momentum. The initiative, led by the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) President, Eddy Kenzo, aims to protect artists’ intellectual property and ensure fair compensation for their work.
The Road to Copyright Reform.
The movement for stronger copyright protections began in August 2023, when a delegation of musicians led by Kenzo met President Yoweri Museveni at State House Entebbe. The artists highlighted the rampant piracy, exploitation, and lack of adequate legal safeguards that have long hindered Uganda’s creative industry.
In response, President Museveni challenged the artists to develop concrete solutions that would safeguard their creative rights under an amended Copyright Law. Rising to the occasion, UNMF worked closely with the State House Science team to explore digital and scientific mechanisms for enforcing copyright protections.
A High-Level Review and Government Backing.
After months of consultations, the team presented their findings to President Museveni in a high-level meeting attended by:
- Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Thomas Tayebwa
- State Minister for Culture, Hon. Peace Mutuuzo
- Head of State House Scientists, Eng. Sheeba
- Lilian Mbabazi, Board Member, Uganda National Cultural Centre (UNCC)
- Nassuuna Maureen, CEO, Uganda Performing Rights Society (UPRS)
Following the presentation, President Museveni expressed satisfaction with the proposed solutions and directed that the Copyright Amendment Draft Bill be sent back to Parliament for further review.
UNMF’s Role in Protecting Artists
The Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF), under Eddy Kenzo’s leadership, has been at the forefront of advocating for musicians’ rights. The federation was established to fight for fair payment, copyright enforcement, and the protection of artists’ intellectual property.
Kenzo, a Grammy-nominated artist, has consistently pushed for policies that will ensure Ugandan musicians earn from their craft and that their creative works are legally protected from piracy and unauthorized use.
If Parliament passes the amended Copyright Law, Uganda’s music industry could experience a historic shift, guaranteeing better compensation and respect for artists’ work.