The recent public advisory issued by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) against extortion and economic sabotage by broadcasters, online publishers, bloggers, and other online media service providers represents a significant step towards restoring lawful order and addressing unethical conduct within Uganda’s media fraternity. The measures taken to curb defamation and extortion are commendable and highlight a proactive approach by the UCC in tackling these detrimental activities.
However, it is crucial to recognize that the UCC must do more to protect vulnerable groups, particularly artists. For years, artists have demanded that the UCC take action against broadcasters who use music and film content without appropriate licenses from collective management organizations, resulting in a denial of royalties to the artists. Reports show that only 10% of broadcasters comply with copyright law, indicating a severe breakdown in the lawful exploitation of music, films, and other creative products. This exploitation amounts to intellectual property theft and significantly impacts the livelihoods of creators.
Furthermore, aggregators and telecommunications companies have been profiting substantially from caller tunes, while the artists who create the content continue to face financial hardship. This situation underscores a systemic issue where creators are not adequately compensated for their work.
Additionally, some broadcasters are showing films that have not been classified by the Media Council of Uganda. Local film producers are placed under strict obligations to comply, making Ugandan film products uncompetitive in terms of pricing for local broadcasters. This discriminatory application of the law should end to protect the local film industry.
Moreover, film distributors are operating without UCC regulation, with some dealing in pirated music and film content without facing consequences.
The recent actions by the UCC should be extended to address these concerns. There is a need for strict enforcement of licensing requirements for broadcasters by ensuring their compliance with copyright law; enforcing the classification of foreign film content that is broadcast on our local televisions and exhibited in various distribution outlets; and enforcing local content quotas to protect local music and film industries from undue competition from foreign content. By doing so, the UCC can foster a more equitable cultural industry where artists receive due recognition and financial rewards for their contributions.
In conclusion, while the advisory against extortion and economic sabotage is a positive development, further measures are necessary to protect artists and ensure their rights and livelihoods are safeguarded. The UCC has the opportunity to transform the creative industry into a thriving sector by addressing these critical issues. We await further advisories in this same vein but this time emphasizing the economic sabotage against artists.
By harles Batambuze NCF Vice Chairman www.ncfuganda.org.ug
