Ragga Dee
For years, musicians, filmmakers, and other creators in Uganda have rallied for reforms to ensure they receive proper financial recognition for their hard work. The existing Copyright Law has long been a source of frustration for many Ugandan artists, who have consistently voiced concerns about the lack of recognition and compensation for their creations.
In a significant announcement that has stirred excitement within the creative community, renowned Ugandan singer and Chairman of the National Cultural Forum (NCF), Ragga Dee, confirmed that the long-awaited amendment to Uganda’s Copyright Law will be finalized and signed before December 2024. This news was shared during the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) weekly jam session, where artistes gathered to showcase their talents and discuss pressing issues facing the industry.
During his address, Ragga Dee emphasized the importance of the revised law, stating that it would mark a turning point for the creative industry in Uganda, which has long struggled under outdated legislation. “This new law will address the concerns of our artists and ensure they benefit financially from their creativity,” he asserted, igniting hope among those in attendance.
The heads of major musical bodies, including celebrated artist Eddy Kenzo, along with representatives from various government entities, have hinted at the impending implementation of the law. Their involvement has raised expectations that meaningful changes are on the horizon, promising relief to a creative sector that has been advocating for years.
The forthcoming amendments are expected to enhance the protection of intellectual property rights and establish a more robust framework for enforcing the rights of creators across Uganda. For many artists, this development could lead to increased revenue opportunities and stronger safeguards for their intellectual property.
As the approval of the law approaches, Ugandan creatives are hopeful that their voices will finally be heard. “We have fought hard for this,” expressed one local filmmaker, encapsulating the sentiments of many who have felt overlooked. “With these changes, we can finally look forward to a future where our contributions are valued and protected.”
The excitement surrounding the proposed amendments highlights a pivotal moment for Uganda’s artistic community, as they stand on the brink of significant reform that could reshape the landscape of the creative industry for years to come.
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