Kampala, Uganda: The Uganda Registration Services Bureau has said the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights (Amendment) Bill, 2025, will significantly strengthen legal protection for Ugandan creators and support the growth of the country’s creative economy.
Officials from URSB, led by Registrar General Mercy Kainobwisho, on Thursday attended proceedings at the Parliament of Uganda to witness the reading of the proposed legislation.
The Bill was presented before Parliament by Norbert Mao, with support from Attorney General Kiryowa Kiwanuka and the chairperson of the Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee, Hon Stephen Mugabi Baka.
According to URSB, the proposed amendments are aimed at strengthening Uganda’s copyright framework, particularly by enhancing the legal protection available to artists, musicians, filmmakers, writers and other creative professionals.
The reforms are expected to improve enforcement mechanisms against copyright infringement, an issue that continues to affect the earnings and livelihoods of many creatives.
Authorities say the amendments will also help address gaps in the current law, especially in response to emerging digital platforms where copyrighted content is increasingly distributed.
Supporting Uganda’s creative economy
URSB officials also revealed that the new legal framework will contribute to the growth of Uganda’s creative sector by ensuring that creators are properly protected and rewarded for their work.
The creative industry has increasingly been recognised as an important contributor to employment, cultural expression and economic development.
By strengthening intellectual property protection, the government hopes to create a more supportive environment for innovation and artistic production in the country.
The Copyright and Neighbouring Rights (Amendment) Bill, 2025, will now undergo parliamentary scrutiny and debate before lawmakers decide on its adoption.
URSB says it remains committed to supporting reforms that promote effective intellectual property protection and sustainable growth of Uganda’s creative industries.
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