Official advocacy outcomes, programme announcements, industry statements and selected stories from UMA's archive.
A recent symposium focused on the need for improved royalty management systems within Uganda. Participants discussed the importance of regional cooperation to strengthen the creative economy and protect intellectual property rights.
The Ugandan government plans to implement a digital monitoring system by December 2026 to track music usage in public spaces. This initiative aims to improve royalty collection and accountability, with industry stakeholders urging stronger enforcement of copyright laws to ensure artists receive fair compensation.
The Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) is emphasizing the importance of written agreements to ensure music producers and contributors are fairly compensated. This follows May 2026 amendments to the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights law, which introduced stricter penalties for infringement.
Musician Lydia Jazmine has publicly expressed concerns that the Ugandan music industry is losing its former vibrancy. Her comments reflect broader industry anxieties regarding the current state and momentum of the creative sector.
This report highlights the disparity between the popularity of Ugandan artists and their domestic royalty earnings. It notes that many artists rely more on international streaming and private deals than on local collective management society payouts.
The Criminal Investigations Directorate and the State House Anti-Corruption Unit are investigating the alleged mismanagement of a Shs1.5 billion fund intended for music industry growth. The funds were reportedly managed by members of the Uganda Music Promoters SACCO.
The Uganda Performing Rights Society (UPRS) defended its royalty distribution process following public criticism over low payouts. The society stated that payments are performance-based and adhere to established distribution policies.
The 2026/27 national budget allocated Shs33 billion to a revolving fund for creatives. The government also announced plans to acquire a dedicated facility for artists and strengthen intellectual property enforcement.
The passage of the Act reflects years of consultations and sustained advocacy for stronger creator protection.
Parliament adopted proposals addressing Caller Ring Back Tone rights through the 2026 copyright amendments.
A number of changes advanced by UMA were adopted through governance reforms at UPRS.
UMA partnered with Next Media, NBS and Sanyuka to create a national platform for industry dialogue.