A Framework for Integrating Blockchain Technology into Copyright Theft Prevention Systems: A Case Study of the Uganda National Musicians Federation

Abstract

Uganda's vibrant creative economy, particularly its music industry, faces significant challenges from widespread copyright infringement and substantial revenue loss. This is primarily due to unauthorized digital distribution and the limitations of traditional enforcement methods in the digital age. Artists often find their work used without proper compensation, which stifles innovation and threatens the economic viability of creative professionals. This study aims to address these issues by conceptualizing and developing a blockchain-based framework to prevent copyright theft and enhance revenue tracking for artists under the Uganda National Musicians Federation. The framework is designed to revolutionize ownership verification and automate royalty distribution with unprecedented transparency, thereby restoring financial control to creators. To achieve this, a qualitative case study was conducted at the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF). The methodology involved in-depth interviews with musicians, producers, and federation staff to understand their lived experiences of copyright abuse and the challenges in licensing. This empirical data was supported by a comprehensive literature review on copyright enforcement and blockchain integration in the creative industries. To demonstrate feasibility, a simulation model was built using Hyperledger Fabric, which was tested in realistic content distribution scenarios to show how smart contracts could seamlessly register content, automate agreements, and ensure timely royalty payments directly to creators. The findings confirm that blockchain technology can effectively secure content ownership with cryptographic certainty, track usage in real-time, and reduce dependency on intermediaries. Based on these insights, the study proposes a comprehensive Blockchain Copyright Compliance Framework (BCCF) customized for Uganda. This framework outlines processes for decentralized content registration, smart contract-based licensing, and inter-agency collaboration. The study concludes that while blockchain offers immense potential for copyright governance and revenue protection, its successful implementation will require a multi-faceted approach involving legal reform, stakeholder buy-in, and technical capacity-building initiatives