Eddy Kenzo dismisses claims copyright law will only benefit top Ugandan artists

• Eddy Kenzo says claims that the copyright law will only benefit top artists are false.
• The system will use digital tracking technology to detect when songs are played and calculate royalties.
• Musicians are set to appear before Parliament to discuss the proposed law and clarify misconceptions.

The president of the Uganda National Musicians Federation, Eddy Kenzo, has dismissed claims that the proposed copyright amendment—commonly known as Clause 9—will only benefit already established artists.

Speaking during an interview with Sanuka TV host Brian Makona, Kenzo described the claims as misleading and driven by people who do not fully understand how the proposed system will work.

The debate around the law has intensified in recent weeks, with some critics arguing that media houses, bars and entertainment venues would be unfairly burdened if required to pay musicians whenever their songs are played. Others have claimed that the system would mainly favor already popular artists.

Kenzo, however, insisted that the law is designed to support all musicians, regardless of their level of fame.

“Those saying the law will only benefit big artists do not understand how it works. Every artist will be registered together with their songs,” Kenzo explained.

According to the “Sitya Loss” singer, the proposed system will rely on digital tracking technology capable of detecting when and where a song is played.

“When a song is played, machines will detect which song it is and how many times it has been played. That is how royalties will be calculated and paid,” he said.

Kenzo also questioned why bars and media houses would oppose the proposal, arguing that these businesses benefit directly from Ugandan music which attracts customers and audiences.

He noted that the system could even create opportunities for media platforms and venues to earn from the copyright structure, making it beneficial for multiple stakeholders.

The musician further revealed that artists are preparing to appear before Parliament to engage lawmakers on the proposed legislation and clarify misconceptions surrounding the copyright framework.

Kenzo expressed optimism that through dialogue with legislators, the law can be refined and eventually implemented in a way that creates a fair environment for Uganda’s entire music industry.