Uganda’s creative industry is on the verge of a transformative breakthrough, thanks to relentless advocacy from artists and industry leaders. On February 29, 2025, award-winning musician Eddy Kenzo, the President of the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) and Senior Presidential Advisor for Creatives, took to social media to share a monumental update on copyright protection for Ugandan artists.
The Journey Toward Copyright Protection
In August 2024, Kenzo and a team of creatives met President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni at State House, Entebbe, where they discussed the urgent need to protect intellectual property in Uganda’s entertainment sector. The President challenged them to develop solutions that would ensure artists' rights were safeguarded under the amended Copyright Law.
Taking up this challenge, the UNMF collaborated with the State House Science team to explore digital and scientific solutions aimed at protecting creatives' works from exploitation.
Key Meeting With the President and Leaders
On February 28, 2025, Kenzo, alongside a delegation of industry leaders and scientists, presented their findings to President Museveni. Also in attendance were:
Hon. Thomas Tayebwa – Deputy Speaker of Parliament
Hon. Peace Mutuuzo – State Minister for Culture
Eng. Sheeba – Head of the State House Scientists
Lillian Mbabazi – Board Member, Uganda National Cultural Centre (UNCC)
Nassuuna Maureen – Chief Executive, Uganda Performing Rights Society (UPRS)
Members of the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF)
The President expressed satisfaction with the proposed solutions, affirming his support for Uganda’s creative industry.
The Copyright Amendment Draft Bill Moves Forward
A major outcome of the meeting was the confirmation that the Copyright Amendment Draft Bill has been sent back to Parliament for further discussion and approval. This milestone brings renewed hope for Ugandan artists, who have long faced challenges in protecting their intellectual property from piracy and exploitation.
Kenzo acknowledged the unwavering support of Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, whose presence at the meeting demonstrated Parliament’s commitment to enacting stronger copyright laws.
A New Era for Ugandan Creatives
Eddy Kenzo reaffirmed his dedication to seeing the amendment passed into law, ensuring that artists and creatives reap the full benefits of their work. He extended his gratitude to President Museveni and Hon. Tayebwa for their leadership in supporting Uganda’s creative sector.
This development marks a historic step toward protecting Ugandan creatives, empowering them to thrive in a fair and regulated industry. As the Copyright Amendment Bill moves through Parliament, the creative community eagerly anticipates its enactment—ushering in a new era of respect and financial security for Ugandan artists.
Stay Updated with Acoli iTV