New copyright rules to force bars, telecoms to pay artists for music use

The government plans to roll out new copyright regulations in December to strengthen the protection of artists’ works and ensure musicians and other creatives are paid for the use of their intellectual property.
Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Norbert Mao disclosed that the regulations would be published in November, paving the way for their implementation the following month.

Speaking on Monday at a symposium on copyright and related rights management organised by the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), Mr Mao said the government was finalising preparations to operationalise the new legal framework. He added that the State House Engineering Department was expected to brief him on the progress of the process next week before the regulations are published.
"We have been building the copyright and neighbouring rights law and have amended the law. Now we are remaining with publishing it and rolling it out for implementation so that the creative industry can use it for resolving disputes," Mr Mao said.

The planned rollout follows President Museveni’s assent to the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights (Amendment) Act, 2026, on April 29, after Parliament passed the legislation in March. The new framework is expected to strengthen copyright management and address concerns over the unauthorised use of creative works, including music played in entertainment venues and used by telecommunications companies.

Mr Mao explained that the government intends to introduce copyright management systems in bars and discotheques to ensure that artists receive remuneration whenever their music is played. He warned that entertainment establishments that fail to comply with the requirements could face stiff penalties, including the denial of operating licences.
The minister added that telecommunications companies using artists’ music will similarly be required to ensure creators are appropriately compensated.

The proposed measures come amid longstanding concerns among musicians and other creatives over the commercial exploitation of their work without adequate payment. Mr Mao emphasized that copyright protection must translate into tangible economic benefits for artists, writers, filmmakers, and other innovators, noting that Uganda’s legal and institutional frameworks should enable creatives to protect their work, earn from their talent, and contribute meaningfully to national development.
He further highlighted the urgent need to address emerging challenges associated with artificial intelligence and the use of technology in producing and distributing creative content, reiterating that the copyright management framework would help ensure artists receive appropriate remuneration.

Also speaking at the event, African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO) Director General Bemanya Twebaze called for stronger regional cooperation to improve intellectual property protection across the continent.
"By strengthening cooperation among intellectual property offices and other stakeholders, Africa can build more effective copyright systems that protect creative works, promote commercialisation and expand opportunities for creators across the continent," Mr Twebaze said.
On his part, URSB Board Chairman Francis Butagira noted that intellectual property could play a significant role in driving economic transformation if creative works were properly protected and commercialised.

"Protecting and commercialising creatives’ works can support enterprise growth, create employment and ensure that Africa’s rich cultural and creative resources contribute to sustainable development," Mr Butagira said.
The December rollout is expected to provide a clear framework for enforcing the amended law, though stakeholders note that its practical impact will ultimately depend on the final regulations, enforcement mechanisms, and compliance by businesses that use copyrighted works.