About Uganda Performing Right Society (UPRS)

Founded in 1985, the Uganda Performing Right Society (UPRS) is a non-profit organization formed by musicians and other authors to manage music copyright in Uganda. Registered as a company limited by guarantee (with no share capital), UPRS is owned by its members and recognized by the Government of Uganda as the national music collecting society. It is also a member of CISAC—the global network of authors’ societies.

Who Can Join?
Membership is open to all creators of original music or music videos. Proof of authorship—usually a recording—is required. Members sign an agreement that allows UPRS to manage their rights and royalties, freeing them to focus on creativity.

What UPRS Does:

  1. Licensing & Royalty Collection
    UPRS licenses music users (e.g., broadcasters, venues, online platforms) and collects royalties for the public use of music. These royalties are then distributed to members and affiliated international societies.

  2. One-Stop-Shop for Music Users
    Through reciprocal agreements with international societies, UPRS simplifies the licensing process by offering centralized access to a global music repertoire via blanket licenses.

  3. Efficient Rights Management
    UPRS handles rights on behalf of creators, negotiating collectively with users to ensure fair compensation and stronger bargaining power than individual artists could achieve alone.

  4. Reducing Copyright Infringement
    By legally authorizing music use, UPRS helps reduce piracy and works with government bodies and global organizations (WIPO, CISAC, ARIPO) to influence copyright policy.

  5. Fair & Transparent Distribution
    Royalties are paid based on actual music usage—”money in, money out”—ensuring that rights holders are equitably compensated for every play or performance.

  6. Music Usage Monitoring
    UPRS tracks where, when, and how long music is used to ensure compliance with licenses and accurate royalty payments.

  7. Member Education
    The Society offers career guidance through regular workshops and outreach programs, helping members grow professionally and understand their rights.

  8. Access to Creative Works
    By licensing large repertoires, UPRS ensures consumers can legally and easily access diverse musical content across platforms and locations.

  9. Democratic Governance
    Members participate in the General Meeting where they vote on policies, elect leadership, and shape the organization. UPRS truly belongs to its members.

Legacy & Succession Rights
Copyright lasts for life plus 50 years. When a member passes away, their beneficiaries can apply to collect royalties for up to 50 years, ensuring their legacy continues.

Note: All revenues—after operational costs—are returned to members, reflecting UPRS’s non-profit nature.