President Museveni Approves Eight New Laws Including Copyright and Employment Reforms

President Yoweri Museveni has given assent to eight important laws, with the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights (Amendment) Act, 2026, standing out for updating protections from the 2006 framework to address digital challenges.

This legislation introduces harsher penalties for piracy, including fines up to Shs50 million or up to 10 years in prison. It empowers copyright registrars and owners to demand swift removal of infringing content from online platforms. Registration with the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) is now required for certain remedies like takedown notices, while copyright assignments are capped at 20 years to safeguard creators.

The Employment (Amendment) Act, 2025, bolsters rights for domestic, casual, and migrant workers by classifying them as employees after four months, granting access to standard benefits. Employers must now offer lactation facilities, 30-minute breastfeeding breaks every two hours post-maternity, and extend paid sick leave to six months. Sexual harassment policies become mandatory for all firms, severance pay is standardized at one month’s salary per year served, and overseas contracts need repatriation terms.

Other approved acts include the National Drug and Health Products Authority Act, 2026, broadening oversight of medicines, vaccines, devices, and cosmetics; the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act, 2026, enforcing energy audits and standards; and the Non-Performing Assets Recovery Trust (Repeal) Act, 2024, shifting its duties to the Finance Ministry.

Rounding out the list are the Forensic and Scientific Analytical Services Act, 2026, for better evidence management; the Public Enterprises Reform and Divestiture (Amendment) Act, 2024; and the Magistrates Courts (Amendment) Act, 2026.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)