In the latest episode of Tusker Malt Conversessions, singer, songwriter, and content creator Elijah Kitaka gives fans an intimate glimpse into his personal story.
The fourth episode of season three, which premiered on YouTube at 6pm yesterday, delves into Kitaka's complex journey, revealing the challenges he faced growing up and his rise as a key figure in Uganda's music and digital space.
Elijah Kitaka spoke candidly about his break from the church, a place he once sought spiritual grounding. He shared how being judged and alienated by church members led him to distance himself.
“I remember trying to live like a proper church person, but the church people would gossip or judge. If you didn’t behave their way, they distanced themselves from you. So, I became the kind of person who just stayed away. I was spiritually lost,” he admitted.
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He didn't shy away from talking about his difficult upbringing, including poverty and being separated from his family. Music, he shared, became more than a career, it was his emotional support.
“Music became my parent. It fed me emotionally when nothing else could,” Kitaka revealed.
Despite these struggles, he stressed the importance of hard work, learning, and having a strong support network, mentioning figures like Kas Kasozi and Maurice Kirya as key players in his growth.
Another touching moment in the episode was his reflection on his love life and fatherhood. “In the past, I was drawn to music, to the attention it brought, to having fun. But I didn’t always do the right thing... I admit, I didn’t marry the mothers of my kids. That was wrong... I wasn’t mature enough back then, even though I thought I was wise,” Kitaka confessed.
Kitaka’s openness about his past mistakes and growth serves as a reminder that self-improvement is a continuous journey. His message of grace and healing resonates deeply.
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He also discussed the struggles of being a creative in Uganda, where emotional and financial uncertainties are ever-present. “I don’t feel fully in control of my life. I just flow with it,” he shared, a sentiment many creatives can relate to.
Elijah Kitaka further explored his fusion of African and Western fashion, proudly challenging societal norms. He encouraged open-mindedness and education on how Ugandans, especially those living abroad, express their individuality.
Kitaka also urged for better emotional support for creatives within families and relationships. As he continues his journey, he emphasizes the need for divine guidance and strength.
Since its debut in 2022, Tusker Malt Conversessions has provided a powerful platform for Ugandan talent to share their truths beyond the music.
Mercy Atwongyeire, Project Manager at UBL, believes that the authenticity of the show makes it unique. “Tusker Malt Conversessions was created to give artistes a platform where they’re not just seen but deeply heard. Elijah’s episode reminds us that vulnerability is a form of strength,” she said.
Catch the full episode with Elijah Kitaka on YouTube @tuskermaltug. Whether it’s for the music, the stories, or the inspiration, Tusker Malt Conversessions keeps evolving with every episode.