Artists urge copyright reform in Juba
A coalition of singers, producers and poets gathered in Juba this weekend, pleading for a copyright bill that has lingered in draft form for over a decade. Without it, they argue, South Sudan’s creative economy remains exposed to unchecked piracy and commercial misuse.
Hip-hop artist Meen Mabior Meen, known as Manimen, told reporters: “For more than ten years our work has been vulnerable to theft.” He says a robust, enforceable law is essential to restore dignity, confidence and motivation among emerging talents across the country.
Piracy drains artistic income
Industry advocates warn that the legal vacuum discourages investment, limits royalties and pushes young performers into informal markets. Several studio owners report seeing their recordings trafficked on flash drives within days of release, with no mechanism to claim revenue.
Peace caravan amplifies unity message
Alongside the legislative appeal, the group introduced the 64 Artists Peace Caravan, an initiative that will tour all ten states and three administrative areas, using music, dance and spoken-word to popularise the 2018 Revitalised Peace Agreement and reinforce national cohesion.
Vision for Kiir Mayardit Art Centre
Artists also sketched plans for a Kiir Mayardit Art Centre, envisaged as a hub offering training, equipment and rehabilitation programmes for at-risk youth. “A dedicated space could transform lives and give the next generation a meaningful path,” Manimen insisted.
Officials hint at timeline for bill
While parliament has not announced a date for debate, Culture Ministry officials told local radio that consultations with stakeholders are nearing completion. Observers believe the new bill could reach the National Assembly in the coming session if momentum is sustained.