Examination of the Copyright Law and the Efforts to Combat Piracy in the Music Industry in Uganda

Abstract

Uganda’s music industry plays a fundamental role in the social and economic lives of Ugandans and effectively contributes to the economic growth. The music industry has not benefitted artists as their rights have been infringed upon and suffocated by some inadequacies in the legal regime, and the lack of effective enforcement mechanisms. This has led to an increase in piracy and infringement of copyright works. Thus the need to enlighten musicians who are ignorant about the legal regime pertaining to the industry and to also highlight the importance of the law and provide musicians with legal and effective means in which to have their musical works protected. Ugandan music is as diverse as the ethnicity of its people. The music industry contributes significantly to the GDP in most industrialized economies. It also offers considerable growth and employment opportunities in developing countries particularly Uganda. In Uganda today there is a severe strain placed upon musicians to find profitability and sustainability in making music. The growth and influence of the music industry is where most of the artists earn a source of living. Most musicians are unable to appreciate copyright as a tool to have their works protected and face challenges in regard to the administration and enforcement of copyright. This has led to the unprecedented levels of unauthorized commercial use of music also known as music piracy. The study obtained information from seventy respondents who were asked a couple of questions to assess their knowledge on issues relating to copyright. It was recommended in relation to the findings that there is need for an effective regulatory infrastructure and strong institutional support for the music industry and the sensitization of the public such that people may be brought up to speed with copyright issues especially the repercussions of piracy and how best to curb it.