By Nova Play Team
Today’s session in Uganda’s Parliament marked a significant moment as the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights (Amendment) Bill 2025 was introduced for its first reading.
Hon. Nobert Mao, who holds the title of Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, presented this important bill as the third agenda item, eliciting a sense of pride among many stakeholders in the creative community.
The esteemed Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anitah Among, took the opportunity during the session to reflect on the lengthy yet worthwhile journey of the bill, acknowledging its developmental history.
Highlighting its origins, she credited Hon. Hillary Kiyaga, widely recognized as the talented musician Hilderman, who initially championed this cause before it garnered support from the government.
This legislation is designed to bolster protections for intellectual property, particularly for artists within the music industry, ensuring they receive fair compensation for their work.
Earlier this year, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni revealed plans for a new Copyright Management System, aimed at safeguarding musicians’ rights and refining the procedures for collecting and distributing royalties.
The discussions today signified a pivotal advancement in the government’s commitment to nurturing and protecting Uganda’s vibrant creative landscape.
Stay tuned for further updates!