By Musa Mbogo
The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has issued a directive banning the advertisement of unpermitted concerts across all media platforms. Under the new guidelines, no media house will be allowed to air promotional content for any event that has not been cleared and issued a special permit by the commission
The meeting, led by the UCC Executive Director, Nyombi Thembo, brought together key stakeholders, including musicians leaders, promoters, religious leaders, Bouncers and government officials, to tackle issues ranging from morality in performances to compliance with regulatory requirements.
Citing growing public outcry over vulgar and offensive performances, the ED called for a collective effort to address the issue.
“As the body mandated to regulate stage plays and public entertainment, we cannot turn a blind eye to content that embarrasses us in front of our children or undermines social values,” the ED said.
The meeting also reinforced the necessity of acquiring permits for performances and advertisements under the Stage Plays and Public Entertainment Act.
“No event should proceed without the required entertainment permit, and we urge all stakeholders to comply,” Thembo stressed.
However, stakeholders raised significant concerns about practical challenges. Eddy Kenzo and Phina Mugerwa(Masanyalaze), who represented musicians, highlighted the heavy taxation burden they face when organizing concerts. [It’s like we are fighting an uphill battle], Kenzo remarked. “For every event, we pay URA, NEMA, the police, and even the counter-terrorism unit. How can we thrive when we’re taxed from every corner?”
Phina Mugerwa added, “We appeal to the government to assign one body to handle entertainment-related taxes. This will bring fairness and efficiency to our work.”
Minister Balaam Barugahara, a veteran music promoter, raised concerns about the moral and behavioral standards of artists. (Freedom of expression must be exercised with responsibility). “Artists influence the youth, and we need to ensure they are setting the right example. Some content today crosses the line, and that must be addressed.”
The UCC Executive Director reiterated the Commission’s commitment to enforce regulations while facilitating a fair environment for performers.
“We have streamlined the permit application process through an online platform,” Thembo shared. “Our goal is not to stifle creativity but to ensure everyone operates within the framework of the law.”
The permit, which costs UGX 100,000, must be applied for online. The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) emphasized that non-compliance will result in severe penalties, including imprisonment.
Furthermore, UCC has taken a strict stance against broadcasters promoting vulgar content stating that moving forward, no media house will be permitted to air advertisements for any concert that has not been approved and issued a special permit. Additionally, media houses will be required to submit a monthly report detailing the concerts they have advertised.
The UCC Executive Director announced plans to introduce a QR code system for media houses to verify permits, ensuring they are not deceived by concert organizers.
Participants emphasized the importance of ongoing dialogue to strike a balance between regulation and creative freedom. However, they urged the government to establish a unified revenue collection system, citing the burden of multiple taxes that hinder their work. Despite these challenges, they committed to partnering with UCC in the effort to uphold moral standards. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
