The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has directed all broadcasters and media content providers to ensure that audiovisual content aired on television and digital platforms is fully licensed, warning that failure to comply will attract legal and regulatory action.
In a notice issued on Tuesday, UCC reminded broadcasters of their obligations under the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Act, Cap. 222, which grants creators exclusive rights to control the use of their works.
The Commission stressed that no content should be used for commercial purposes without authorization from copyright holders or their representatives.
Broadcasters have been instructed to obtain licenses directly from copyright owners, their duly appointed agents, or through collective management organizations such as the Uganda Federation of Movie Industry (UFMI).
UFMI is authorized to license audiovisual works owned by its Ugandan members and foreign societies with which it has reciprocal agreements.
The Commission also cautioned broadcasters to verify the legitimacy of licensing claims and ensure that permissions cover works within the mandate of licensing bodies.
For international content, broadcasters must secure authorization from foreign rights holders or their agents.
UCC warned that non-compliance will lead to sanctions as provided for under the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Act and the Uganda Communications Act, Cap. 103.
According to the regulator, the directive is intended to promote lawful broadcasting, safeguard intellectual property rights, and foster the growth of Uganda’s creative industry.
