Culture Ministry fast-tracks Copyright Bill to safeguard creative economy

2026-03-06 - 13:47

The Ministry of Culture, Museums and National Heritage has announced plans to fast-track the long-awaited South Sudan Copyright Bill to strengthen protection for creators’ rights in the country. This week, the ministry held a consultative meeting to review progress on the proposed legislation. The session was chaired by Undersecretary Amer Madol Majak and brought together director generals, ministry staff, civil society representatives, and academics. During the meeting, the ministry’s legal advisor presented an update on the current status of the bill and key provisions under review. Participants discussed the need to modernize the draft law, reactivate the stakeholders’ committee to broaden consultations, and consider conducting another round of reviews. The proposed copyright legislation was first developed during the COVID-19 period with contributions from regional experts and national stakeholders. According to the ministry, the bill will strengthen the legal framework to safeguard creators, promote cultural development, and support the growth of the creative economy. It is also expected to benefit artists and innovators in Juba, who stand to gain from stronger copyright protections once the bill is enacted. In November 2025, the Concerned Artists of South Sudan appealed for the urgent enactment and enforcement of a comprehensive copyright law to protect creative works from piracy and misuse.