It’s all systems go for the Directorate of Copyright and Neighbouring Rights
It’s now official. The Directorate of Copyright and Neighbouring Rights has been inaugurated as URSB’s latest Directorate. The inauguration, which took place on Thursday, 13th March 2025, was presided over by the Acting Deputy Registrar General, Mr. Arthur Kwesiga, who also represented the Registrar General.
While giving his remarks, Mr. Kwesiga appealed to the newly recruited staff of the Directorate to ensure they understand the complexities of the copyright and neighbouring rights sector because the Directorate was a key actor. He reminded them that creatives always focused on results and they needed to embrace a results-oriented approach if they are to make meaningful impact.
Mr. Kwesiga further encouraged staff to prioritise upskilling by undertaking trainings in copyrights and neighbouring rights noting that there were several free courses available online via platforms such as the WIPO Academy.
Mr. Geofrey Byamukama, the Director Human Resource Management, congratulated the staff on the transition to the new Directorate and encouraged them to exhibit professionalism in all their responsibilities while serving diligently. He reiterated Management’s full support for the Directorate and conveyed best wishes.
On his part, Mr. Gilbert Agaba, the Director Intellectual Property, provided an overview of URSB’s endeavours in regulating copyright and neighbouring rights, detailing key interventions and initiatives undertaken to fulfil this mandate.
He particularly highlighted facilitating the registration of works, supervising collective management organisations (CMOs), enforcing copyright laws, conducting awareness campaigns, and spearheading legal reforms notably the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Act. He also mentioned key challenges such as funding constraints, piracy, and limited awareness among players.
Ms. Miriam Nabatanzi, Manager Compliance and Enforcement and Coordinator of the Directorate of Copyright and Neighbouring Rights, expressed optimism that staff would deliver on their assignment and ensure all stakeholders are effectively engaged.
She encouraged staff to have open minds and be willing to continuously learn because the sector is ever evolving. She appealed for total commitment from staff adding that Management had provided all necessary support for the effective implementation of the Directorate.
