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Uganda National Musicians Federation
### UNMF Hails Historic Signing of Copyright Law by H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni
A New Dawn for Uganda’s Creative Industry
Kampala, Uganda – April 29, 2026 – The Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) celebrates a landmark moment for the creative sector following the signing of the amended Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Act by H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
This historic assent marks the culmination of years of advocacy, consultation, and unity across the creative industry. The new law strengthens protection for musicians, producers, authors, filmmakers, and all creators, ensuring that intellectual property rights are respected and that creatives can finally earn fairly from their work.
Appreciation to Our Champions
The UNMF extends its deepest gratitude to:
- H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his visionary leadership and commitment to empowering the creative economy. Your signature has unlocked a future where Ugandan talent is protected and profitable.
- Parliament of Uganda, especially the Committee on ICT and National Guidance, for the diligent scrutiny and swift passage of the Bill.
- Ministry of Justice & Constitutional Affairs and Ministry of Gender, Labour & Social Development for their technical guidance and unwavering support.
- Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) for its continued role in IP administration and stakeholder engagement.
- Fellow creatives, associations, and collective management organizations across music, film, literature, and visual arts. Your voices, petitions, and unity made this possible.
- Media, civil society, and development partners who amplified the call for reform.
The Next Journey: Implementation and Enforcement
While today we celebrate, tomorrow we begin the real work. A law on paper must translate into royalties in pockets. The UNMF commits to working hand-in-hand with URSB, Uganda Police, broadcasters, digital platforms, and venue owners to ensure full implementation and enforcement.
Key priorities moving forward:
1. Nationwide sensitization of artists, users, and law enforcement on the new provisions.
2. Operationalizing effective collective management to ensure transparent and timely royalty distribution.
3. Strong anti-piracy mechanisms both online and offline to protect creative works.
4. Capacity building- creators on contracts, licensing, and digital monetization.
To every Ugandan musician, producer, and creative: this victory is yours. The era of creating hits while living in poverty must end. With this law, we now have the tools to build a thriving creative economy that contributes meaningfully to national development.
The Uganda National Musicians Federation reaffirms its commitment to champion the rights of all musicians and will remain at the forefront of the implementation journey.
Aluta continua — the struggle for a sustainable creative industry continues.
Signed,
Eddy Kenzo
President, Uganda National Musicians Federation
