Musicians Applaud Parliament After Copyright Amendment Bill Passes
For years, Ugandan musicians have pushed for stronger copyright protection.
On March 17, 2026, that campaign reached an important milestone when Parliament passed the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights (Amendment) Bill 2025.
Musicians led by Eddy Kenzo, president of the Uganda National Musicians Federation, attended the session at Parliament. Among those present were Sheebah Karungi, Pallaso, King Saha and Gravity Omutujju.
The amendments introduce payments for performers when their music plays on radio, television, digital platforms or at public events.
The law also increases penalties for piracy and improves oversight of royalty collection bodies.
Norbert Mao, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, told Parliament the reforms will strengthen intellectual property protection for creatives.
Musicians present welcomed the development, saying it could finally improve how artistes earn from their work.
The bill now awaits presidential assent before it takes effect.
