By Nathan Eyagu 

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni met with over 100 musicians on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at State House, Entebbe in a meeting organized by the Commissioner of Patriotism in the Office of the President, Ms. Hellen Seku, brought together artists from various sub-regions, led by the President of the Uganda Musicians Federation, Eddy Kenzo.

During the meeting, President Museveni reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting the music industry. He encouraged the musicians to use their songs as a platform to deliver the National Resistance Movement (NRM)’s wealth creation message to Ugandans.

According to the President, this approach will strengthen the government’s efforts to alleviate poverty and improve the livelihoods of citizens.

Museveni also urged the musicians to be patriotic and to create songs that contribute positively to the country’s development. He directed Commissioner Seku to organize patriotism and ideological training for musicians before the end of the year.

Additionally, President Museveni cautioned against identity politics based on tribe and religion, warning that such divisions could hinder development and sow hatred among the people. He encouraged the musicians to promote politics of interest, which he described as crucial for the nation’s prosperity.

Eddy Kenzo, speaking on behalf of the musicians, expressed concern over the lack of protection for their artistic intellectual property and requested the President to expedite the process of passing the copyright law.

The musicians thanked President Museveni for hosting them and pledged their support for government programs aimed at achieving socio-economic transformation in Uganda.

The meeting was also attended by the Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Hon. Betty Amongi, and the Minister of State for Gender and Culture, Hon. Peace Mutuuzo, among others.

Singer BenzzahMan (Sky Echoes), the Eastern Uganda Coordinator of the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) and Chairman of the Greater Teso Musicians Association, noted that the meeting was fruitful.

He appreciated the opportunity to discuss issues affecting artists with the President and expressed gratitude to Eddy Kenzo, the newly appointed Senior Presidential Advisor on Creatives, for his leadership.