By Aggrey Baba
President Yoweri Museveni has approved a new Copyright Management System aimed at ensuring Ugandan musicians earn from their work. The system, developed by State House scientists under Eng. Sheba Kyobutungi, will track music usage in bars, radio, and TV stations, making sure artists receive payment whenever their songs are played.
Speaking during a meeting in Rwakitura with top officials and musicians, including singer, and President of the Uganda Musicians Federation (UMF), Eddy Kenzo, President M7 emphasized the importance of technology in protecting artists’ rights. He noted that with the new system, it will be possible to track who has played a song and where.
This move is expected to bring financial relief to many musicians who have long struggled to earn from their creative work.
The Copyright Management System will register musicians’ works, track where and how often songs are played, and ensure that artists receive fair payments based on play counts. It will also help combat music piracy, which has been a major challenge for the industry.
Bars, radio, and TV stations will be required to install a licensed device that monitors song plays. For instance, if a bar pays UGX 1 million for a music license, the revenue will be distributed to artists based on how often their songs are played. A song that gets 60% of total plays will receive 60% of the collected fees.
To ensure compliance, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) will oversee the system, while Uganda Police will enforce the regulations. Businesses that fail to install the required tracking devices risk closure.
This initiative comes at a time when many Ugandan musicians struggle financially after their peak years, with limited means of earning from their past work. By guaranteeing continuous revenue from their music, the system is expected to provide financial security for artists and their families.
With agencies like UCC, the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), and Uganda Police working together, the creative industry is set for a new era of professionalism and financial stability.
This initiative marks a significant step forward in copyright protection and artist empowerment in Uganda. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
