Cindy reaches out to Museveni over Shs. 18billion

The artists in a petition to the president dated November 22, called for a reconsideration of the allocation of the money, to ensure that it does not benefit just a few.

The letter, signed by representatives from a consortium of music associations across the nation, highlights concerns over what they deem a biased and divisive distribution plan set forth by the Prime Minister's Office and the Ministry of Gender Labour and Social Development.

Their contention is that the intended allocation of the Shs. 18billion largely earmarked for the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) neglects the wider creative industry and the diverse needs of over 10,000 artists spanning various artistic domains.

“We, the members of the Uganda Musicians Association (UMA), along with our colleagues from 12 other music associations, are alarmed by the continuation of this political approach which only meets short term personal needs of the artists as opposed to building a stronger foundation for the music industry,” the petition reads in part.

Their letter to the president centers on the imperative need for a comprehensive and fair allocation strategy.

They advocate for a distribution across all music associations, highlighting the multifaceted requirements of the industry.

These as such proposed strategy encompassing infrastructure development, educational programs, promotional endeavors, digital platform investments, research and development initiatives, and bolstering copyright enforcement.

“The music industry in Uganda has the potential to be a significant economic contributor. By adopting a holistic and inclusive approach, we can collectively ensure the sustainable growth and global competitiveness of this vibrant sector,” the artist added.

“We trust in your wisdom and leadership to guide this critical decision towards a more inclusive and beneficial outcome for the entire Ugandan music industry.”

The associations in the petition are:

1.Uganda Musicians Association

2. Instrument Player's Association

3. Grill Live Band Performers Association

4. Kadongokamu Theatre Association

5. Musicians Legends Association

6. Banansi Music Association

7. Talented Musicians Network Association

8. Kaswida Nashid and Matali Association

9. United Deejays Fraternity

10. Uganda Music Publishers Association

11. Association for Performing Artists Managers