The Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), Uganda’s national intellectual property body, is leading the country’s efforts to strengthen copyright protection and unlock the economic potential of the creative industry as Kampala hosts the Symposium on Copyright and Related Rights Management from 19 to 21 October 2026 at Speke Resort Munyonyo.
The symposium, organised in partnership with the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO) and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), is being held under the theme “Empowering Creativity: Harnessing IP for Sustainable Development in Africa.”
The engagement brings together policymakers, intellectual property experts, creators, rights holders and industry stakeholders to explore practical approaches to strengthening copyright administration, improving royalty management and promoting the commercialisation of creative works.
The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Hon. Norbert Mao, emphasised the importance of effective legal frameworks in protecting creators and supporting the growth of the creative economy.
“Copyright protection must translate into tangible benefits for creators. Our legal and institutional frameworks should enable artists, writers, filmmakers and other innovators to protect their work,earn from their talent and contribute meaningfully to national development,” the Minister said.
ARIPO Director General, Mr. Bemanya Twebaze, highlighted the importance of regional cooperation in strengthening intellectual property systems.
“By strengthening cooperation among intellectual property offices and other stakeholders, Africa can build more effective copyright systems that protect creative works, promote commercialisation and expand opportunities for creators across the continent,” he said.
URSB Board Chairman, Rt. Hon. Ambassador Francis K. Butagira, noted that intellectual property is an important driver of economic transformation.
“Protecting and commercialising creative works can support enterprise growth, attract investment, create employment and ensure that Africa’s rich cultural and creative resources contribute to sustainable development,” he said.
URSB Registrar General, Mustapher Ntale, said the symposium reflects the Bureau’s commitment to helping Ugandans understand, protect and derive value from their intellectual assets.
“Creativity must be supported by systems that respect ownership, facilitate fair remuneration and enable creators to build sustainable livelihoods. Through awareness, effective administration and stakeholder collaboration, we can help unlock the value of Uganda’s creative potential,” he said.
The symposium will also examine piracy, licensing, digital content exploitation and the Kampala Protocol on Voluntary Registration of Copyright and Related Rights, adopted in August 2021 under the ARIPO framework.
As Uganda’s national intellectual property body, URSB continues to promote respect for
intellectual property rights and support an environment where creativity drives innovation,entrepreneurship, employment and sustainable development.
