The meeting was organised by Hellen Seku, the Commissioner of Patriotism-Office of the President, and led by Uganda Musicians Federation President Eddy Kenzo.
President Yoweri Museveni met with over 100 musicians, including notable names like Bebe Cool and Jose Chameleone, at State House, Entebbe, on Wednesday, August 21.
President Yoweri Museveni met with over 100 musicians, including notable names like Bebe Cool and Jose Chameleone, at State House, Entebbe, on Wednesday, August 21.
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During the gathering, President Museveni reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting the music industry.
He encouraged the musicians to use their art to convey the National Resistance Movement (NRM)’s wealth creation message, which he believes will aid in poverty alleviation and improve the livelihoods of Ugandans.
“Use your songs to spread the message of wealth creation to Ugandans,” Museveni advised, emphasising the importance of aligning their music with the country’s development goals.
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The President further urged the artists to exhibit patriotism and produce constructive songs that contribute positively to Uganda's growth. He instructed Commissioner Seku to organise patriotism and ideological training sessions for the musicians before the year ends.
Museveni also warned against the politics of identity, based on tribe and religion, which he said could hinder development and sow discord. Instead, he advocated for a focus on politics of interest to promote national prosperity.
Eddy Kenzo took the opportunity to highlight the lack of protection for artistic intellectual property in Uganda, requesting that President Museveni expedite the enactment of a copyright law.
The musicians expressed their gratitude to President Museveni for hosting them and committed to supporting government initiatives aimed at socio-economic transformation in the country.
The meeting also saw the attendance of Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development Betty Amongi and Minister of State for Gender and Culture Peace Mutuuzo, among other officials.
