Uganda Passes Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Amendment Bill

Uganda advances copyright reform with stronger protections for creators and rights holders

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UGANDA PASSES COPYRIGHT AND NEIGHBOURING RIGHTS AMENDMENT BILL

Uganda’s Parliament has passed the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights (Amendment) Bill, 2025, modernising the country’s copyright framework to address digital developments and strengthen protection for creators and neighbouring rights holders. Approved in March 2026, the Bill updates the 2006 Act in line with international best practices.

Key amendments include stronger enforcement measures, increased penalties for infringement and piracy, enhanced protection for works in the digital environment, and improved regulation of royalty collection and distribution. The Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) is expected to play a central role in implementing the new regime and supporting rights holders once the law comes into force. Adams & Adams can support rights holders, publishers and platforms in assessing compliance risks, enforcement readiness and the practical implications of Uganda’s amended copyright regime. Please direct enquiries to uganda@adams.africa.

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