Uganda's creative industry is poised for a significant transformation with the introduction of the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights (Amendment) Bill 2025. Introduced by the Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Norbert Mao, this proposed legislation aims to modernize the country's copyright framework, align it with international standards, and ensure creators receive fairer compensation for their intellectual work, particularly in the digital era.

Shadrack Kisame, Team Leader of UgaTunes, highlighted the bill's crucial role in ensuring fairness, specifically targeting entities like Howebiz, MP3Jaja, and DJ Erycom, which he claims have profited from Ugandan music for over two decades without paying royalties. Kisame emphasized that UgaTunes, in contrast, adheres to royalty payments. He views the bill as a victory for all stakeholders across the creative value chain, including managers and songwriters. Kisame also stressed the importance of organized ecosystems in the creative industry, citing global examples where successful artists thrive due to well-run organizations, advocating for a broader organizational approach beyond just artists.

The bill is described by Minister Mao as a