The senior presidential advisor for the creative sector and the president of the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) has finally demonstrated why he was appointed to these roles by his colleagues and the President. This comes after he made significant progress in the quest for copyright legislation.
For an extended period, artists in the country have lamented the absence of a cohesive copyright law, citing it as a major reason for their poverty. Attempts to amend and revise the existing copyright law were unsuccessful until Eddy Kenzo stepped in.
He collaborated with his spouse, Hon Phiona Nyamutoro, who presented the bill to Parliament. After several months of discussions, the Bill has now received approval following substantial backing from the Cabinet.
Sharing an update on his social media platforms, the BET Award winner revealed that the Bill is referred to as the Copyright and Neighboring Rights Amendment Bill 2024. The only step left is for the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs to publish the Bill in the Gazette. It will then be brought to Parliament for discussion and, ultimately, passed into law.
“Am glad to inform you that the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights(Ammendment) Bill 2024 was returned from the Parliamentary Counsel and has been approved and overwhelming supported by Cabinet today.
The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs after then will publish the Bill in the Gazette and introduce the Bill in Parliament for debate and Enactment.
The Ministry of Finance has also confirmed issuing the Certificate of Financial Implication to clear the Bill.
Our wish of having the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights (Amendment)Bill ,2024 as a Christmas gift I think has been fulfilled.”
Kenzo also expressed his gratitude to President Museveni for his support throughout this process. He thanked everyone for their encouragement, love, and prayers during this time. He urged his fellow artists to remain patient during the final stages so they can all celebrate this milestone together.
The artist has long been subject to criticism from some members of the entertainment community, particularly those supportive of Bobi Wine’s NUP. They argued that he would be unable to accomplish anything since others had attempted and failed. This achievement seems to serve as an effective response to his detractors.
https://twitter.com/eddykenzoficial/status/1868740076269977928
