The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has announced new regulations aimed at controlling the content of public entertainment and addressing concerns over vulgar music in the local industry.
The announcement, made by UCC Executive Director George William Nyombi Thembo, came during a press conference focused on the increasing issues surrounding explicit music and its impact on Ugandan audiences.
In his statement, Thembo emphasized that concert organizers are now required to obtain proper permits from UCC in line with the Stage Plays and Public Entertainment Act.
This regulation aims to ensure that all public events meet the country’s standards for entertainment. He further clarified that these steps are part of UCC’s ongoing effort to uphold decency and protect the public from harmful or inappropriate content.
“The Stage Plays and Public Entertainment Act and its regulations require that all concert organizers obtain permits from UCC,” Thembo said during an interview with a local television station.
“This is to ensure that events and performances adhere to standards that are in line with our cultural and legal frameworks.”
As part of its actions, UCC also announced the suspension of controversial songs by artists Lil Pazo and Gravity Omutujju. The two musicians have faced backlash due to explicit lyrics in some of their songs. Notably, tracks like “Enkudi,” “Dooze,” and “Okwepiicha,” all containing vulgar content, have been banned from public airwaves and performances.
Thembo further reassured stakeholders that the UCC is not against local talent but is focused on curbing the spread of songs that may negatively influence audiences, especially the youth.
He explained that the suspension applies only to songs with explicit content, which UCC believes do not reflect Uganda’s cultural values and standards.
These measures come at a time when concerns over the rising trend of vulgar music have reached a peak, with many calling for stricter regulations in the industry.