Kampala, Uganda — Martin Nkoyoyo, the Chairperson of the Uganda Performing Right Society (UPRS), has encouraged artists to participate actively in the Annual General Meetings (AGMs) rather than solely utilizing social media for expressing their grievances.
The AGM is recognized as the ultimate decision — making body within the UPRS, providing a platform for members to influence decisions and demand accountability from the organization. This appeal comes against the backdrop of ongoing discussions within Uganda’s entertainment sector regarding copyright administration and royalty distribution. Artists have raised concerns about the transparency and fairness of the royalty payout process, with the UPRS, which collects and distributes royalties on behalf of its members, facing criticism for not providing sufficient information on royalty allocation.
Radio, as indicated by a survey by East Africa Radio Advertising Services (EARS), remains the most widely accessed medium in Uganda, reaching 82 percent of the population. This underscores the significant role radio plays in the entertainment industry and the necessity of ensuring artists receive their rightful compensation.
The UPRS leadership emphasizes that artists must leverage the AGM to drive change, as meaningful reforms necessitate members’involvement beyond public criticism. Encouraging artists to engage more actively with the UPRS leadership through AGM participation is seen as a more effective approach to addressing concerns and seeking solutions.
The challenges within the Ugandan entertainment industry, particularly concerning copyright administration and royalty distribution, have highlighted the need for robust systems to protect creators.
The UPRS’s management of royalties is under intense public scrutiny, and while online platforms offer a means for artists to voice their opinions, the AGM remains the primary venue for members to influence decisions and hold the organization accountable.
The UPRS’s call for artists to participate in the AGM is a significant move towards fostering a more transparent and accountable organization that prioritizes the interests of its members.
As the entertainment industry evolves, it is vital that organizations like the UPRS adapt and ensure fair compensation for artists’work.
The AGM serves as a critical platform for artists to engage with the UPRS and advocate for their rights, reflecting the UPRS’s commitment to addressing artists’concerns and working towards a more inclusive and transparent organization.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Panafricanvisions
Source: Pan African Visions
