President Museveni has approved a Copyright Management System to protect musicians and ensure they earn from their work.
This new technology was approved following a meeting with top officials and musicians, including Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) President Eddy Kenzo and Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, among others.
The President, along with UNMF leadership and other stakeholders, believes the new management system will benefit artists.
"The new technology should be able to tell us who has played my song and where," President Museveni said, according to a statement released to the public.
The new system, developed by State House scientists under Eng. Sheba Kyobutungi, will register musicians' works, track music usage in bars and on media, specifically on TVs and radios, and ensure that artists get paid for plays, effectively ending music piracy.
"Businesses like bars, radio and TV stations will need a licensed device to play Ugandan music. The system will monitor usage and ensure musicians earn a fair share. For example, if a bar pays Shs 1 million for a music license, artists will be paid based on play counts. A song played 60 times earns 60% of the fee," part of the statement reads.
The system will be implemented by the Uganda Communications Commission and enforced by the Uganda Police Force.
"Bars must install a device to track plays. The UCC will monitor compliance. The Uganda Police Force will enforce the law. Non-compliant businesses risk closure," it adds.
The government believes this system will enable artists to earn a lifetime income, benefiting themselves and their families.
