Uganda’s creative industry is set for a major boost after the government unveiled a series of interventions aimed at protecting artists, expanding access to financing, and creating new opportunities for talent development across the country.
In what many creatives are calling a long-awaited breakthrough, the government has strengthened protection for artistic works through the newly enacted Copyright and Neighbouring Rights (Amendment) Act, 2025. The law is expected to give musicians, filmmakers, comedians, dancers, and content creators stronger legal tools to protect their intellectual property and earn fairly from their work.
For years, artists have complained about piracy, unauthorized use of their content, and lost revenue. With the new legislation now in force, many hope the industry will finally enjoy better protection and improved income opportunities.
Government has also injected billions of shillings into the sector through the Uganda Creatives Revolving Fund, an initiative designed to provide affordable financing to SACCOs operating in entertainment, music, film, fashion, content creation, and other creative ventures.
According to the FY2026/27 Budget Speech, by December 2025, approximately Shs18.99 billion had already been disbursed to 50 SACCOs, directly benefiting 3,047 creatives. Notably, 62 percent of the beneficiaries are youth, while 43 percent are women.
The funding is expected to help creatives grow businesses in music production, filmmaking, fashion, events management, talent development, digital content creation, and other income-generating activities that continue to shape Uganda’s vibrant entertainment landscape.
Adding to the excitement, government has confirmed that it is in the final stages of acquiring a dedicated home for creative artists. The facility is expected to serve as a common-user center where emerging talents can access training, mentorship, production resources, and collaborative workspaces.
If successfully implemented, the center could become a game changer for thousands of young creatives who often struggle to access professional studios, equipment, and affordable industry support services.
At a time when Ugandan music, comedy, fashion, and digital content are reaching audiences far beyond the country’s borders, the latest budget signals a significant shift in government thinking. The arts are no longer being viewed solely as entertainment but as a powerful economic sector capable of creating jobs, generating wealth, and driving national development.
For Uganda’s creatives, the message from the new budget is loud and clear: the industry is finally getting the recognition and investment it has long demanded
