A fresh legal battle has erupted in Uganda’s entertainment industry after renowned events company Swangz Avenue filed a lawsuit against television host and event emcee MC Kats, accusing him of unlawfully using the phrase “Roast and Rhyme” to promote an upcoming event scheduled to take place in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) later this month.
Swangz Avenue, the organizers and registered owners of the popular Roast and Rhyme brand, claim that MC Kats and his associates under Vibes Promotions used the name without authorization while advertising their own event initially titled “Roast and Rhyme – UAE Edition”, slated for November 29, 2025.
In documents filed through their legal representatives, Swangz Avenue is demanding UGX 1.09 billion in compensation—comprising UGX 1 billion in damages and UGX 90 million to cover legal and associated costs.
Event Rebranded After Legal Threats
Following intense public backlash and a formal notice of intention to sue, the event organizers have since bowed to pressure and rebranded their Dubai show to “BBQ and Chills.”
The new name, though different in wording, maintains a similar concept—combining live performances, outdoor fun, and a relaxed “meat roasting and music” theme.
Industry observers say the quick rebranding was an attempt to avoid a costly court battle and accusations of intellectual property theft. However, Swangz Avenue insists that the initial use of its protected brand name caused confusion among fans and sponsors, thereby diluting the company’s identity and value.
“‘Roast and Rhyme’ is not just a phrase—it’s a registered brand that we have built for years through investment, creativity, and consistency,” a Swangz Avenue spokesperson said. “Anyone using it commercially without our consent is infringing on our intellectual property rights.”
MC Kats Distances Himself from Organizers
MC Kats, real name Edwin Katamba, has publicly distanced himself from the controversy, stating that he was only contracted to perform at the Dubai event and had no involvement in naming or organizing it.
“I was simply booked to entertain my fans. I didn’t create the poster, I didn’t choose the name,” Kats said in a recent media interview. “I have great respect for Swangz Avenue and their brand. I’m not part of any infringement.”
His defense hinges on the claim that he is merely an artiste-for-hire and not part of the team responsible for branding or marketing the event. Legal analysts, however, note that his association with the event’s promotion could still make him a secondary party to the alleged infringement.
Legal Experts Weigh In
Legal practitioners familiar with Ugandan intellectual property law say the outcome will depend on whether Swangz Avenue’s ownership of the “Roast and Rhyme” trademark is formally registered and whether the defendants can be shown to have benefited from using it.
“If Swangz Avenue has a registered trademark and can prove likelihood of confusion or unfair competition, they stand a strong case,” said one Kampala-based lawyer who preferred anonymity. “However, damages of over a billion shillings would need strong evidence showing actual financial loss or reputational harm.”
Changing the event name to “BBQ and Chills” may reduce the scope of the claim, as it demonstrates that the organizers took corrective action once notified. Still, Swangz Avenue’s lawyers argue that the damage had already been done through earlier advertising and ticket sales.
What Happens Next
The High Court’s Commercial Division is expected to summon the parties for a preliminary hearing in the coming weeks. Should the matter proceed to trial, the court will determine whether MC Kats bears any legal or financial responsibility or whether the liability rests solely with the event promoters.
Observers suggest that both sides could opt for an out-of-court settlement, which is common in such disputes, especially within the entertainment sector where maintaining public image and industry relationships is key.
For now, the fate of the UGX 1.09 billion claim remains uncertain—but the case has already sparked renewed debate about intellectual property awareness and respect for creative ownership in Uganda’s entertainment industry.
