President Yoweri Museveni on Saturday launched the “Yoweri” music album by the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF), led by Eddy Kenzo, at Munyonyo. The event, attended by the First Lady Janet Museveni, marked a milestone for Uganda’s music industry as artists showcased indigenous rhythms in languages such as Runyankore, Gisu, Lusoga, and Acholi.
Museveni praised the musicians for their unity and creativity, saying their work has the potential to reach global audiences.
“Maama Janet and I are happy to see the music the team has produced, especially the incorporation of indigenous rhythms. These styles have the potential to become big hits internationally, much like how African Americans popularised live jazz music,” he said.
The President pledged financial support to artists through zonal SACCOs, noting: “We can support you with 10 billion, 20 billion for your zonal SACCOs especially if it’s annual.”
He added that peace was key to nurturing creative industries. “You cannot have sports, music when there is no peace. Others were saying that we had neglected the musicians, but we had to first deal with the basics first,” Museveni explained.
Eddy Kenzo, who also serves as Presidential Advisor on Creatives, presented regional offices for the UNMF, a development he said was achieved with support from President Museveni.
“I want to congratulate Kenzo, Nyamutoro, and all the musicians for finally getting organised,” Museveni remarked, reaffirming his commitment to supporting Uganda’s creative sector.
The launch concluded with live performances, led by Kenzo, celebrating both the new album and the growing recognition of Ugandan music.
