Senior media consultant Prof. Dr. Joel Isabirye has commended President Yoweri Museveni, Gen. Salim Saleh and key stakeholders in Uganda’s creative industry for the successful passage of the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights (Amendment) Act, 2026.
The law was assented to by the President on Wednesday, April 29, 2026.
Speaking to industry professionals and academics in Kampala on Friday, Dr. Isabirye said such legislation requires both political will and coordinated effort.
He noted that President Museveni and Gen. Saleh have, over the past decade, remained committed to transforming the creative sector.
However, he added that legislative gaps have long slowed progress.
He credited their support as instrumental in ensuring the law’s passage.
Dr. Isabirye also recognized the contributions of the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Parliament, and members of the creative sector.
He described the achievement as a result of collective effort.
Dr. Isabirye said the enactment of the law is a major milestone, but only the beginning of strengthening copyright compliance in Uganda.
He stressed the need for public sensitization and the establishment of effective enforcement systems.
“Laws and policies are like plans or aspirations—the real impact is felt during implementation,” he said.
He added that the next phase will involve the formulation of regulations by the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs in consultation with stakeholders.
Dr. Isabirye expressed confidence that Uganda is ready to implement the law.
The President also assented to several other laws, including the National Drug and Health Products Authority Act, 2026, the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act, 2026, and the Employment (Amendment) Act, 2025.
Others are the Forensic and Scientific Analytical Services Act, 2026, the Public Enterprises Reform and Divestiture (Amendment) Act, 2024, the Magistrates Courts (Amendment) Act, 2026, and the Non-Performing Assets Recovery Trust (Repeal) Act, 2024.