Parliament is set to resume plenary sittings this afternoon at 2:00pm, with legislators expected to deliberate and potentially pass several critical bills that have been under consideration for months.
High on the Order Paper are the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights (Amendment) Bill, 2025, the National Drug and Health Products Authority Bill, 2025, and the Marriage Bill, 2024.
The sitting is anticipated to draw significant attention from stakeholders across the creative, health, and legal sectors, given the far-reaching implications of the proposed laws.
At the centre of the debate is the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which has generated both anticipation and concern within Uganda’s creative industry.
The bill seeks to strengthen protections for artists, musicians, filmmakers, and other content creators by addressing gaps in copyright enforcement, particularly in the digital space where unauthorized distribution remains widespread.
A key focus for many artists is Clause 9 of the bill, which is expected to provide mechanisms for creators to earn royalties when their work is played on platforms such as radio, television, bars, and online streaming services.
Ugandan musicians have increasingly pushed for stronger enforcement frameworks to ensure they are fairly compensated for the commercial use of their work.
However, concerns have emerged about how the law could be implemented in practice.
Experiences from Kenya, where a similar law was introduced, have raised caution among some stakeholders.
Reports from the Kenyan market indicate that some bars and broadcasters reduced the amount of local music they play to avoid the cost and administrative burden of paying royalties.
Within Uganda, some artists have publicly rallied in support of the bill. Musician Sheebah Karungi urged creatives to actively engage in the process, describing the parliamentary debate as a defining moment for the industry.
“Today is not just another day—it’s a defining moment for every artist. We are standing up for our rights, our work, our future. Clause 9 must stand,” she said ahead of the sitting, calling on fellow creatives to show up and make their voices heard.
Also scheduled for consideration is the National Drug and Health Products Authority Bill, 2025, which seeks to streamline the regulation of pharmaceuticals and health-related products in the country.
The proposed law aims to strengthen oversight, improve safety standards, and enhance coordination in the management of medicines and health products.
Meanwhile, the Marriage Bill, 2024 seeks to reform and consolidate laws governing marriage in Uganda.
The legislation addresses issues such as legal requirements for marriage, rights and responsibilities of spouses, and recognition of different types of unions.
It also aims to modernize existing frameworks to reflect evolving societal dynamics while safeguarding individual rights.
Proceedings are expected to commence at 2:00pm, as indicated on the Order Paper, with the House prioritizing the listed business for final consideration.
