Local broadcasters in Uganda are undermining the film industry by airing pirated content, which deprives filmmakers of earnings and deters potential investors. The UCC has flagged numerous stations for this practice, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations to address the escalating piracy issue. Without decisive action, the local film sector risks stagnation and failure to reach its potential. Efforts to combat piracy must involve penalties and collaboration among filmmakers, broadcasters, and stakeholders to safeguard Uganda’s creative economy.
One afternoon, while browsing local Free-to-Air channels, I was alarmed to encounter a recent Hollywood film being aired on a local TV station. This occurrence was not tied to a licensed service but was an act of piracy openly defying regulations. I realized then that this issue poses a serious threat to Uganda’s creative economy, as piracy has permeated mainstream television broadcasts.
Piracy affects not only Uganda but is a worldwide concern, with the Motion Picture Association (MPA) estimating that it inflicts over $40 billion in losses on the film industry annually. Meanwhile, piracy-tracking firm MUSO reports an astonishing number of over 230 billion visits to illegal streaming sites each year. Uganda, too, grapples with this significant challenge.
The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has identified numerous local channels broadcasting unlicensed content, which deprives Ugandan filmmakers of their rightful earnings and complicates an already struggling industry. Local filmmakers have consistently highlighted the difficulties posed by piracy and the lack of enforcement regarding offenders.
The impact of piracy is profound, as it discourages local talent and potential investors. Ugandan filmmakers grapple with challenges in financing and distribution; the airing of pirated works further diminishes their revenues, forcing many to abandon their art. Only a few well-supported productions endure, leading to stagnation in the industry.
In addition to harming local talent, piracy communicates a discouraging message to international investors regarding Uganda’s viability as a filming destination. Continuous broadcasts of pirated works undermine the confidence of studios and streaming services to invest in the region, hampering the industry’s ability to thrive and compete globally.
Legal cinemas and streaming services are also adversely affected as they rely on paid audiences. The availability of pirated films on television diminishes the allure of purchasing tickets or subscribing to streaming services, thereby crippling the local cinema market and dissuading international platforms from entering Uganda.
To address this critical issue, it is imperative that immediate action is taken. Stricter regulations should be instituted, with potential penalties imposed by the UCC for stations airing pirated content. Strong deterrents such as substantial fines, revocation of licenses, and legal proceedings must be considered to hold violators accountable.
In conclusion, the rampant piracy perpetrated by local broadcasters poses a severe threat to the future of Uganda’s film industry. It disrupts the livelihoods of local filmmakers, deters potential investors, and ultimately undermines the growth of the creative sector. Urgent measures, including stricter enforcement against piracy and collaborative efforts among stakeholders, are essential to protect this vital economic and cultural asset.
Original Source: www.independent.co.ug
