Singer and Uganda Musicians Association Vice President Phina Mugerwa has called upon fellow creatives in Uganda’s arts sector to unite in pushing for the amendment of the 1959 Uganda National Cultural Centre (UNCC) Act, describing the existing one as outdated and a setback to the growth of the industry.

According to Masanyalaze, the amendment act enacted over six decades ago no longer aligns with the current realities of Uganda’s creative sector.

“The most important thing is advocating for the amendment of the 1959 UNCC Act because it is too old and stale. That is why the industry has no leadership and structures. The very tool we should be using to guide us is outdated,” Mugerwa said.

The Bampasude singer added that modernizing the act would open up opportunities for better governance and development in the creative industry, which continues to face numerous challenges despite its growing potential.

Also noting that refurbishing the National Theatre and expanding its infrastructure would create more space to accommodate the growing number of creatives.

“There is a need to renovate the National Theatre because that’s what we desire the most. We don’t want it to be demolished because it is part of our heritage. Maybe we can add a few more buildings, and the parking space also needs to be worked on. If modernized, it could generate funds to support the arts and creative sector.”