On October 24, 2024, stakeholders from Uganda’s arts, fashion, music, and media sectors convened at the Hilton Hotel in Kampala to discuss the draft National Cultural Policy and advocate for stronger government support of the creative economy. The meeting, organized by the Uganda Parliamentary Forum on Creative Industries (UGAPAFOCI), focused on the need for a dedicated Ministry for Culture and Creatives to provide oversight, funding, and infrastructure for Uganda’s thriving cultural sector.
Call for a Dedicated Ministry for Culture and Creatives
Present at the meeting were renowned creatives Eleanor Nabwiso and Cleopatra Koheirwe, policy implementer Julianne R. Mweheire, Director of Economic Regulation, Content & Consumer Affairs at the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), and Hon. Rachel Magola, Chairperson of UGAPAFOCI. Together, they examined the structural challenges faced by Uganda’s creative industry and the solutions a dedicated ministry could provide.
The establishment of a Ministry for Culture and Creatives was a central point of discussion. Stakeholders argued that a fragmented approach to managing Uganda’s creative industries is holding back their growth and potential. A unified ministry, they said, would streamline funding, centralize cultural initiatives, and provide a platform for both local and international collaborations, enhancing the global presence of Ugandan arts and culture.
“Having a dedicated ministry would allow us to support our creatives effectively, which is critical for increasing our visibility and competitiveness on an international level,” one stakeholder commented.
Reduction of Taxes on Creative Industry Inputs
Participants identified high taxes on essential creative materials and equipment as another major hurdle. Stakeholders argued that reducing these taxes would make creative production more affordable and accessible, opening doors for young Ugandans to enter the industry and boosting the market for Ugandan creative goods.
Strengthening Copyright Laws
Another pressing issue was copyright protection. Many Ugandan creatives rely on royalties, yet they often face copyright infringement and unauthorized use of their work. Stakeholders called for stronger copyright laws and enforcement mechanisms to protect creatives’ rights and ensure fair compensation.
Additional Recommendations
Beyond the main points, stakeholders suggested:
– Capacity-Building Initiatives: Workshops on intellectual property, digital marketing, and financial management to help creatives build sustainable careers.
– Increased Government Funding: Expanding grants to support projects showcasing Ugandan culture internationally.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
The meeting highlighted the need for government intervention to ensure a sustainable future for Uganda’s creative industries. Participants expressed hope that the proposed Ministry for Culture and Creatives would help strengthen Uganda’s creative economy, foster youth engagement, and preserve cultural heritage.
Organized with the support of the Investment Climate Reform (ICR) Facility and co-funded by the European Union, OACPS, BMZ, and British Council, UGAPAFOCI’s strategic review aims to provide actionable recommendations for the national cultural policy. Both creatives and policymakers are optimistic that these discussions will lead to policy changes that will unlock the potential of Uganda’s creative economy.
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