THE COMMUNICATIONS BLOG

UCC committed to upholding standards for stage plays and performances

KAMPALA, January 20, 2025 – In a decisive move to address widespread public concerns about inappropriate content in public entertainment, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) last week convened a meeting with key stakeholders to discuss new measures aimed at restoring decency and compliance in the entertainment industry.

Uganda’s entertainment landscape has come under scrutiny due to growing public outrage over vulgar and offensive material in music, videos, and live performances. Clips of provocative acts by both local and international performers have alarmed parents and stakeholders, pushing UCC to take action.

“This trend cannot be tolerated or ignored any longer,” said UCC’s Executive Director, Hon. Nyombi Thembo, during the meeting at UCC offices in Bugolobi.

The Minister of State for Gender, Labour, and Social Development, in charge of Children and Youth Affairs, Balaam Barugahara, attended the meeting alongside various key figures who included Edrisa Musuuza, also known as Eddie Kenzo – the presidential advisor on creative arts. Others were representatives of various interest groups, including the Rural Association of Broadcasters (RUBA), National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), Inter-Religious Council of Uganda, Uganda National Cultural Centre (UNCC), as well as several artists’ associations, promoters, and law enforcement agencies.

Participants discussed strategies to ensure that performers and event organizers comply with the law while promoting a culture of responsible entertainment.

Entertainment permits: A legal necessity

Under the Stage Plays and Public Entertainment Act, all organisers of public entertainment, including stage plays, must obtain an entertainment permit issued by UCC. These permits ensure performances meet standards of public morality and do not contravene existing laws.

“No person shall stage or advertise public entertainment without prior authorisation from the Commission,” the Executive Director emphasised. Advertisers, broadcasters, and event promoters must also ensure compliance, as unauthorised advertisements or performances will lead to penalties.

In addition to requiring permits for performances, UCC has tightened regulations around advertising stage plays and events. Broadcasters must verify the permits of events they advertise and submit monthly reports on such advertisements to the Commission. This approach seeks to increase accountability and prevent unauthorised shows from slipping through the cracks.

Collaborative enforcement

To ensure these regulations are effectively implemented, UCC has partnered with various actors, including the Uganda Police, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), and local governments. These will play a pivotal role in verifying permits before granting security clearances. UCC has also introduced a QR code system, allowing authorities to authenticate permits easily.

Recognising the need for adequate enforcement personnel, UCC plans to appoint inspectors, including police officers and UCC staff, to monitor compliance across the country.

Appreciating the importance of efficiency, UCC has digitised the permit application process through its e-Services platform. Event organisers can now apply for and receive their permits online, simplifying compliance while maintaining transparency.

“Our team is ready to guide anyone through the application process,” the Executive Director assured stakeholders during the meeting.

Moving Forward

UCC’s renewed commitment to enforcing these regulations marks a turning point for Uganda’s entertainment industry. By fostering collaboration among stakeholders and leveraging technology, the Commission aims to balance creative freedom with public morality and legal compliance.

As Uganda’s cultural scene continues to grow, UCC’s measures signal a clear message: entertainment must reflect the values and aspirations of society while upholding the law. This proactive approach ensures a safer, more responsible environment for artists and audiences alike.

For event organisers and stakeholders, the message is clear: get compliant or face the consequences.