The president of Uganda has finally had the cry of Ugandan musicians after approving copyright management system for them.
They have fought for these copyright laws for a very long period of time and unfortunately they have never been implemented.
Other musicians from different countries can actually get richer by their works because they have the copyright that protects their work and allows them to earn from whatever they are doing.
Here is a full statement;
Big win for Ugandaโs creatives! President Museveni has given the green light to a Copyright Management System to protect musicians and ensure they earn from their work.
โNow technology should be able to tell us who has played my song and where,โ said President Museveni during a meeting in Rwakitura with top officials & musicians, including @eddykenzoficial .
The Copyright Management System will:
โ Register musicians’ works
โ Track usage in bars, TVs & radios
โ Ensure artists get paid for plays
โ End music piracy
How it works: Businesses like bars, radio & TV stations will need a licensed device to play Ugandan music. The system will monitor and ensure musicians earn a fair share.
Example: If a bar pays Shs. 1M for a music license, artists will get paid based on play counts. A song played 60 times earns 60% of the fee
Enforcement:
Bars must install a device to track plays
UCC will monitor compliance
Uganda Police will enforce the law
Non-compliant businesses risk closure
Why it matters: Many musicians struggle financially after their peak years. This system ensures lifetime earnings from their songs, benefiting both artists & their families.
The project was developed by State House scientists under Eng. Sheba Kyobutungi. Agencies like @UCC_Official , @URAuganda , and Uganda Police will work together to enforce compliance.
With this system, Ugandaโs creative industry is set for a new era of professionalism & financial stability. Huge step forward for copyright protection & artist empowerment.