Apex Media CEO Isaac Ssegawa: Copyright Is Crucial, But Uganda Isn’t Ready Yet

By Peter Luzinda

Isaac Ssegawa, the newly appointed CEO of Apex Media Services, has shared his views on the state of copyright in Uganda, emphasizing that while copyright is essential in principle, the country’s creative industry is not yet structured in a way that allows artists to fully benefit from it.

Speaking during a recent media appearance, Ssegawa noted that most Ugandan musicians continue to earn more from live performances and public exposure than from copyright royalties.

“Copyright is a good and necessary concept, but Uganda is not yet at the level where it generates significant earnings for artists,” he said. “Many musicians have become successful by allowing their music to be played freely on radio and television. This exposure helps them gain popularity, bookings, and brand opportunities.”

Ssegawa credited media platforms particularly radio and TV as the main drivers of artist recognition in the country. He pointed out that artists who insist on copyright payments before allowing their music to be promoted often struggle to break through.

“Media houses are the ones that introduce artists to the public. Those who demand payment before promotion are still struggling to be known,” he added.