Broadcasters to start paying Musicians effective 1st July 2021

The members of The National Association of Broadcasters have committed to payment of royalties for the use of musical works of members of UPRS with effect from July 1, 2021.

This is contained in a communique signed by key stakeholders on Wednesday 16^th June, 2021 at a mecting convened by Operation Wealth Creation (OWC) at Gulu City BETWEEN the Ministry of Gender Labour & Social Development (MGLSD), Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), Uganda Communication Commission (UCC), Uganda Performing Right Society (UPRS), Uganda National Culture Centre (UNCC), National Culture Forum (NCF) AND National Association of Broadcasters (NAI3).

The meeting also resolved that UPRS shall apply the concessional rates as negotiated with NAB in 2016 and also consider group-rates for holding media companies that shall be communicated to NAB.

“Whereas NAB proposed that all outstanding arrears be waived by UPRS, UPRS shall revert upon further consultations with all stakeholders. However, this shall not negate the implementation of the foregoing resolutions” the meeting resolved.

Also, URSB shall formally communicate to UCC and NAB regarding the reorganization and regulation of UPRS.

In respect to monitoring and usage of UPRS members’ works, UCC and UPRS shall determine a realistic and fair mechanism. UCC shall issue a circular to all broadcasters in respect to these resolutions.