Kalifah Aganaga Demands Shs500m from KFC Uganda for Copyright Infringement

• Kalifah Aganaga's lawyers have issued a demand notice to KFC Uganda over alleged copyright infringement.
• The company is accused of using Kalifah Aganaga's song 'Nassanga Remix' without permission in a promotional video.
• The demand notice seeks Shs500 million in compensation and aggravated damages, as well as Shs50 million in legal costs.
• KFC Uganda has been given seven days to comply with the demands or face court action.

Kalifah Aganaga's lawyers have issued a stern warning to KFC Uganda, alleging that the company has used his song 'Nassanga Remix' without permission in a promotional video. The allegations are contained in a demand notice sent to KFC Uganda on August 7, 2026, and addressed to the managing director of the company. According to the notice, Kalifah Aganaga is the rightful owner of the copyright and neighbouring rights in the musical work and sound recording. This means that any use of his music without consent would be considered a direct infringement under Uganda's Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Act, Cap 222, as amended by the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights (Amendment) Act, 2026.

The lawyers claim that KFC Uganda used the song as background audio in a promotional video published on their official TikTok account without obtaining the necessary licenses or permissions. This alleged copyright infringement has not only resulted in financial loss for Kalifah Aganaga but also damaged his brand and reputation. The demand notice states that the company must remove the infringing video from social media platforms and refrain from using Sadati's music catalogue in future advertisements.

The case has significant implications for Uganda's advertising industry, as it sets a precedent for artists and creators seeking compensation for copyright infringement. If the allegations are true, KFC Uganda could be held liable for damages and costs. The lawyers have given the company seven days to comply with the demands, warning that failure to do so would result in court action seeking an injunction, damages, and costs.

The demand notice also highlights the importance of obtaining necessary licenses and permissions when using copyrighted materials. It serves as a reminder that copyright infringement can have serious consequences for businesses and individuals alike. The case is being closely watched by industry stakeholders, who are eager to see how it will unfold.

The demand notice sent to KFC Uganda has sparked a wider conversation about accountability in the advertising industry. Kalifah Aganaga's lawyers have called on the company to take responsibility for their actions and acknowledge the harm caused by their alleged copyright infringement.

The case raises important questions about the role of businesses in respecting intellectual property rights and protecting creative labor. It also highlights the need for greater awareness and education about copyright laws and regulations in Uganda. As the industry continues to evolve, it is essential that companies prioritize transparency and accountability in their dealings with artists and creators.

Lawyers for Kalifah Aganaga have issued a demand notice to KFC Uganda, alleging unauthorised use of his song 'Nassanga Remix' in a promotional video. If the allegations are true, this could set a precedent for artists and creators seeking compensation for copyright infringement in Uganda's advertising industry.

Source: Original reporting via AllAfrica Uganda