Entertainment News 27 March 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda's Private Copy Levy: Boost for Artists or Extra Cost for Buyers?
Uganda's Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Amendment Bill, recently passed by Parliament and awaiting presidential approval, introduces a private copy levy on devices like smartphones and USBs to compensate creators for personal copies. While artists celebrate potential earnings, critics fear it burdens consumers and may sideline local music. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/lifestyle/entertainment/private-copy-levy-explained-lifeline-for-artists-or-burden-on-consumers--5405776
Ugandan artists have flooded social media with excitement after Parliament passed the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Amendment Bill, now pending presidential assent. Singers like Pallaso claim it could bring massive wealth, even funding luxuries like private jets from past airplay royalties.
The bill’s private copy levy adds fees to blank media and gadgets such as CDs, flash drives, phones, and tablets. Manufacturers or importers pay it, with funds going to artists via collection agencies to offset private copying losses. This allows personal copies legally while compensating creators.
Pioneered by figures like Anthony Mwandha of the Uganda Performers’ Rights Society, the levy updates outdated laws ignoring digital piracy via modern devices. Back then, albums took weeks to reach Kampala; now, global releases hit Uganda instantly, legally or not.
Globally, countries like Germany, France, and Switzerland use similar levies, but the UK rejected it over consumer costs. Critics highlight irrelevance in streaming eras, ‘double payment’ for subscribers, and distribution fairness issues, as seen in Kenya’s 2023 backlash over mismanagement fears.
Confusion persists from mixed messages, like claims of retroactive rights reversion or odd definitions of ‘neighbouring rights.’ Fears grow that radio and bars might drop Ugandan tracks to dodge fees, favoring foreign music.
Proponents see it as vital for creators in a tech-driven world; opponents worry about fairness and transparency. Success hinges on clear education and honest fund management.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)