Takeaways

• Cindy Sanyu praised Eddy Kenzo for championing the amended copyright bill.
• UMA and UNMF reconciled after past disagreements to work together.
• The new law is expected to help musicians earn fairly from their work.

Ugandan singer Cindy Sanyu has publicly applauded Eddy Kenzo, the president of the Uganda National Musicians Federation, for the effort he has invested in pushing forward the recently amended copyright bill passed by Parliament.

Speaking during a dinner hosted by the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Norbert Mao, Cindy reflected on the journey that musicians’ leaders have taken to reach this milestone. She explained that a few years ago, the association she leads — the Uganda Musicians Association — and the Uganda National Musicians Federation did not always see eye to eye.

However, after dialogue and reconciliation, the two bodies agreed to work together for the benefit of artists across the country.

“A few years ago, UMA and UNMF had misunderstandings and did not agree on several matters, but after sitting down together, we decided to work for the common good.”

“This is a very big hope for the music industry, and once the law is fully enacted and implemented, creatives will finally earn what rightfully belongs to them.”

Cindy noted that the progress achieved so far is a major step forward, even though more work still lies ahead before musicians fully benefit from the new legal framework.

She also recognized individuals and institutions that had long been advocating for stronger copyright protection, including Ragga Dee through the National Cultural Forum, as well as the Uganda National Cultural Centre and other stakeholders in the creative industry.

According to Cindy, the unity now seen among music industry leaders is a significant achievement in itself. Years ago, UMA and UNMF were often viewed as rivals, with each side fearing the other’s influence. Their decision to collaborate, she said, has played a key role in pushing forward reforms that musicians have long desired.

If fully implemented, the amended copyright law is expected to improve revenue collection, protect intellectual property, and ensure that artists and creatives are fairly compensated for their work.