Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) has called for stronger protection of innovators and entrepreneurs, saying the proposed Counterfeit Bill, 2023 could play a key role in safeguarding ideas, brands, and businesses from imitation and intellectual property theft.Speaking during a stakeholder engagement on the Bill, URSB Senior Compliance Officer Immaculate Nakato Mukuye said young innovators stand to benefit greatly if the legislation is approved, as it would help shield them from financial losses caused by counterfeiters who copy successful products and brands.Mukuye explained that while many people want to associate themselves with popular brands, emerging entrepreneurs often lack adequate protection against individuals who reproduce their inventions and products without permission, denying them the rewards of their creativity and investment.
The Counterfeit Bill, introduced by Bugiri Municipality Member of Parliament Asuman Basalirwa, seeks to address the growing challenge of fake and substandard products that continue to affect businesses, consumers, and the economy.The proposed law comes amid concerns over the rising circulation of counterfeit goods in Uganda, with reports indicating that substandard products have increased significantly, creating risks for consumers while affecting genuine manufacturers and innovators.Among its key proposals, the Bill aims to prohibit the trade of counterfeit goods that violate protected intellectual property rights, establish offences related to counterfeit businesses, and strengthen enforcement measures against those involved in the production and distribution of fake products.
Basalirwa said existing intellectual property laws mainly provide legal remedies through courts after infringement occurs, but do not offer sufficient administrative solutions that can be accessed through national intellectual property institutions.He added that counterfeit and pirated goods undermine legitimate businesses, cause major financial losses to rights holders, and can fuel organised criminal activities, making it necessary for Uganda to establish stronger systems that protect creativity, innovation, and fair trade.
