Copyright Law
Uganda Performing Right Society derives its mandate from the Copyright and Neighboring Rights Act of 2006 and is regulated by the Uganda Registration Services Bureau.
The Act defines how copyright is obtained, what works are protected, how they may be used, and penalties for infringement.
Download the official documents below:
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Music Rights Managed by UPRS
Copyright (Author’s Rights)
- Protects original creators such as songwriters and composers.
- Moral Rights – Recognition and protection of reputation.
- Economic Rights – Ability to earn from commercial use.
- Duration: 50 years after the author’s death.
Performing Rights
- Covers public performance of music.
- Live performances and recorded music use (radio, TV, venues).
- Duration: Lifetime of author + 50 years.
Mechanical Rights
- Allows reproduction of music (CDs, vinyl, downloads, streaming).
- Includes physical and digital formats.
- Duration: Typically 50 years from creation or release.
Synchronization Rights
- Covers use of music with visuals (films, ads, games).
- Requires licensing before use.
- Duration: Based on contract terms.
Reproduction Rights
- Covers copying for commercial purposes (sampling, covers).
- Duration: 50 years after first release.
Broadcasting Rights
- Covers TV, radio, and online broadcasts.
- Licenses usually annual.
- Duration: Copyright lasts 50 years after author’s death.
Neighboring Rights
- Protect performers and producers.
- Performer’s Rights – Musicians and vocalists.
- Producer’s Rights – Record labels or funders.
- Duration: 50 years after recording publication.
Digital Rights
- Covers streaming and downloads (YouTube, Spotify, Boomplay).
- Includes streaming and download royalties.
- Duration: Contract-based, with copyright lasting 50 years after death.
Public Performance Rights
- Covers use in commercial spaces (bars, gyms, hotels, malls).
- Licenses renewed annually.
- Duration: Copyright lasts 50 years after author’s death.
How UPRS Enforces These Rights
- Licensing of music users and platforms.
- Collection of royalties from licensed entities.
- Distribution of royalties to rights holders.
- Monitoring usage and taking legal action against infringement.
Report copyright infringement or unauthorized use of music.
Other Creators’ Societies
URRO
Uganda Reproduction Rights Organization protects and manages literary and visual works, collecting and distributing royalties for authors and publishers.
UFMI
Uganda Federation of Movie Industry represents audiovisual creators and manages reproduction and public performance rights in Uganda.