
In a move aimed at protecting intellectual property rights, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has banned the broadcast of pirated movies, soaps, and dramas on local TV stations.
This decision is expected to have far-reaching consequences for the television industry in Uganda.
This is because many TV stations in Uganda had made it a practice to broadcast popular pirated content to attract and retain viewership. However, the UCC has now put its foot down, citing violations of copyright law.
In a statement issued on February 13, 2025, the UCC warned that continued broadcast of pirated content without permission from copyright owners would result in regulatory sanctions.
“The Commission has noted with concern that various television Media houses, online applications and websites are broadcasting pirated films or movies and other copyrighted works that require the permission an or license from the copyright owners of the subject works…,” UCC said in a statement issued February 13, 2025, says in part.
The Commission goes on to warn all the violators stating thus; “The Commission hereby warns all licensed television broadcasters, operators of online applications and websites that the continued broadcast and exhibition of films, movies or content without the necessary permission or licenses from the copyright owners, will result in regulatory sanctions as provided for under the Uganda Communications Act.”
Impact On TV Business
The directive is however likely to affect the revenues of several TV stations, which rely heavily on pirated content to attract advertisers. With this new regulation in place, TV stations will need to find alternative programming to stay afloat.
Important to note is that this move by the UCC is not unprecedented. In the past, the commission has issued directives prohibiting the broadcast of vulgar, obscene, and other prohibited content on televisions, radios, and online platforms. The UCC has also warned media operators to respect its directives, including a recent warning to stop airing unauthorized entertainment adverts.
According to a report by the UCC there are currently over 10 million TV viewers in Uganda. The report also notes that TV viewership in Uganda is highest among the 15-24 age group, accounting for over 40% of total viewers.
In terms of TV ownership, a survey by the Uganda Bureau of Statistics found that over 70% of households in urban areas own a TV set, compared to just over 30% in rural areas.
As the TV industry in Uganda navigates this new regulatory landscape therefore, one thing is clear: the days of pirated content on local TV stations are numbered.