Ex V.P Bukenya blasts extravagant artists: ‘Your kids will be beggars’

“The reason you see great artists such as the late (Prince Job Paul) Kafeeero leaving nothing behind for their children, is because in Uganda, artists lack basic training in business,” said Bukenya.

“When they get money, they buy Hummers, they buy Rolls Royces; they think they have everything. But they have no idea that their children might end up on the streets.”

The 74 year old former politician and wealthy businessman was weighing in on the ongoing debate about the welfare of Ugandan artists.

In the interview with ME Media, Bukenya drew contrast between the Ugandan artists and their counterparts in Nigeria and other western countries. 

“Look at this lady Tina Turner who recently passed away, and see the wealth she has left behind. She left countless houses in Switzerland, in Los Angeles and elsewhere, because she knew how to use her money,” he said.

“But the artists here don't know that. That’s why they eventually collapse. Once you get money, first make some investments and use the little money for partying. But when you buy a Rolls Royce, you are donating that money to the white man and the Rolls Royce will break down.”

Even those who rush to build massive homes or rent out plush apartments, Bukenya says, are in the wrong. 

“Our artists are showy. They lack business managers; even these so-called promoters don't have any business element that they can impart in the artist; to teach them that if you make Shs 1million, save some 800,000. Don't sleep in a Shs 3 million apartment because by the time you are 45, there won't be any more music left in you.”

Bukenya, a trained medical doctor, served as Vice President of Uganda between 2003 and 2011. He’s a successful businessman with big investments in real estate, and rice farming.