ULS Launches Artist-in-Residence Programme as Creatives Push for Stronger Copyright Protection

What the report says

The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has launched a four-week Artist-in-Residence pilot programme aimed at bringing lawyers and creatives together to discuss intellectual property, copyright protection and the formalisation of creative businesses. Nile Post reported that the initiative was unveiled on Thursday at ULS House in Kololo as part of the Society’s ULS@70 celebrations, with musicians, designers and other industry players taking part.

According to the report, Court of Appeal Justice Oscar Kihika, who launched the programme, said Uganda’s creative sector has strong economic potential but still faces problems tied to copyright enforcement, contract awareness and the impact of new digital technologies. He urged artists to seek legal guidance before signing agreements and called for legal reforms to keep pace with changes such as AI and social media platforms. He also proposed deeper cooperation between ULS and institutions including the Uganda Registration Services Bureau, Uganda Performing Rights Society, the Uganda Communications Commission and the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development.

ULS Vice President Anthony Asiimwe said the profession has a role to play in helping artists protect their work and build sustainable businesses, noting that the pilot will host artists at ULS House for interaction and learning. Other speakers, including artist-lawyer Sylvia Kyagulanyi and performer Joanita Kawalya, welcomed the programme and stressed the need for better copyright administration and stronger legal support for creatives.

The launch also included Lifetime Achievement Awards for several people recognised for contributions to Uganda’s creative industry, including Julius Kyazze, Samson Senkaaba, Monica Katoko, Joanita Kawalya, Sylvia Kyagulanyi and Victor Kamenyo. Nile Post said the broader goal is to strengthen collaboration between the legal and creative sectors and support Uganda’s growing creative economy.