Parliament’s ICT Committee has described as unreasonable the demands by artistes to have 90 percent of their content to command airspace in Uganda.
According to the MPs talent globally is dictated by quality.
“The request that 90% songs should be Ugandan is both unreasonable and impractical, as talent globally is dictated by quality. Ugandan music therefore has to match the quality of the music from elsewhere to receive adequate air play. Media is governed by consumer interests, as the market is liberalized. The Ugandan music should thus appeal to the consumers who control and dictate the market and airplay. The proposed 90% music airplay will be challenged by the consumers for being unfair and an intrusion of their freedom and right to exercise their choice of content or entertainment,” said Tony Ayoo, Vice Chairperson ICT Committee.
Ayoo made the remarks as he presented a report on the petition by artistes, including the Uganda National Musicians Federation.
The committee was compelled to table the report following requests by the Leader of Opposition in Parliament, Joel Ssenyonyi.
The committee conclusively recommends that a comprehensive approach be adopted to address the challenges facing the Uganda music industry in the digital era which will ensure that the country harnesses the opportunities in the industry by improving the livelihood of people in the music industry value chain and also widen revenue base to government.
Modernising the Copyright law will enhance enforcement mechanisms, promote local content and create a fair and transparent ecosystem in the music industry.
“Uganda can therefore foster a thriving and sustainable music industry by addressing the concerns raised which will not only safeguard the rights and interests of artists but also contribute to cultural and economic development,” said Youth MP Phiona Nyamutoro.
