On Friday 12th September 2025, Uganda joined the rest of the continent in commemorating Africa Copyright and Collective Management Day, under the theme “Empowering Creative Industries Stakeholders – Building a Sustainable Future for Copyright and Related Rights.”
The celebration, held at Onomo Hotel Kampala, was graced by Robert Kasande, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, who served as Guest of Honour.
The event was organized by the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO), in partnership with the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) and the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC).
Africa Copyright and Collective Management Day was established in June 2017 by ARIPO member states and CISAC, designating September 14th as a day to promote copyright protection across the continent.
Since 2018, it has been observed annually, providing a platform to raise awareness on copyright and related rights, highlight the role of Collective Management Organizations (CMOs), and foster dialogue among governments, creators, and industry players.
Speaking at the Kampala event, Kasande said the government is strengthening legislation to protect the rights of creators while unlocking the commercial value of their works.
“A sustainable future for our creatives depends on accountability, transparency, and innovation of CMOs. By valuing copyright and leveraging technology, we can ensure that every creator receives the recognition and reward they rightfully deserve,” he said.
URSB Registrar General, Mercy K. Kainobwisho, underscored government’s responsibility in safeguarding creativity.
“Creativity flourishes where it is protected. Like a plant that must be watered to grow, creativity must be nurtured and safeguarded to thrive,” she said.
She emphasized the dual nature of copyright, noting its moral and economic dimensions, and urged creators to join CMOs in order to fully benefit from their work.
“Let us promote creativity and strengthen our creative sector,” she added, calling for collaboration in fostering artistic innovation.
The event brought together major stakeholders including the Uganda Reproduction Rights Organization, the Uganda Federation of Movie Industry, and the Uganda Performing Rights Society.
Their participation reflected a united front in shaping Africa’s copyright landscape and advancing the continent’s creative economy.
