Members of the Uganda Performing Right Society (UPRS) have reaffirmed that the collective management organisation belongs to every member, not a select few, as they called for greater unity and accountability, as well as adoption of modern technology. This was during their 2026 Annual General Meeting held last Friday at the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) offices. In the wake of the newly passed Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Act, UPRS’ has renewed importance and relevance to artistes, including those who had shunned it before. UPRS has since 1985, been advancing copyright administration on behalf of performing artistes, although many did not fully understand what the society stood for. “Every member owns an equal stake in the future of UPRS. History will remember that UPRS is not owned by a few individuals; it is a company limited by guarantee, meaning it has no shareholders or share capital. It is about you, me, and all of us who are part of this community,” former UPRS chairperson James Wasula told artistes. Wasula urged members to avoid divisions that could undermine the society’s mandate. “UPRS is your organisation. Be consistent, take ownership, and stop sitting on the fence. The music business has changed, and we must change with it by embracing modern technology, strengthening continuity between generations, and cultivating a culture of open discussion and teamwork,” Wasula said. He noted that while royalty collection in the past relied heavily on sampling methods, advances in technology now provide more accurate systems for monitoring music usage and distributing royalties. He encouraged UPRS to continue modernising its operations while ensuring experienced members mentor the younger generation. Veteran musician Dan Kazibwe, popularly known as Ragga Dee urged his colleagues to focus on strengthening the institution rather than personal differences. “We have not fought for nothing. This framework gives members clarity on where to raise concerns and how to appeal, and that matters for the future of UPRS. In the creative sector, ego can divide us, but what should unite us is our creativity. We do not have to be friends to build a stronger society; we only need to support UPRS, speak openly about what is wrong, and work together to fix it,” Ragga Dee said. Ragga Dee also challenged artists to help build public confidence in the administering body by sharing positive testimonials from those who have benefited from royalty collections. Robert Mugabe, Commissioner for Intellectual Property at URSB, commended UPRS for its progress and urged the society to take full advantage of the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Act to strengthen its governance and operations. “UPRS now has an opportunity during the transition period under the new law to align its governance structures, operational procedures and compliance systems for a stronger future,” Mugabe said. “Every effort should be directed towards ensuring that creators receive fair, timely and equitable remuneration. The days when music is played and creators only celebrate airplay without economic benefit should be behind us.” UPRS Chairperson Martin Nkoyoyo, popularly known as Yoyo, reaffirmed the society’s commitment to serve with integrity and collaboration. “When copyright works, Uganda works. When it fails, Uganda fails. Our commitment remains unchanged; we will listen, accept challenges and lead alongside you, not above you. Let us build an industry where our children do not have to beg for respect as artistes the way many of us have throughout our careers. Let us protect the institution that has protected us all. This AGM reflects on 2025, while the recent royalty distribution reflects our progress. If we work together, we can all smile together next year,” Nkoyoyo said. atiluknathan@gmail.comThe post UPRS rallies artistes during annual meeting appeared first on The Observer Media Ltd.