Category: News

Music lovers are set for a vibrant cultural experience as top Ugandan performers prepare to take the stage at the Bridges & Beats Francophonie Concert later this month.

The event, scheduled for March 28 at Kingdom Kampala, is part of the global celebrations of International Francophonie Day, an annual cultural festival that promotes the French language and celebrates the diversity of Francophone cultures worldwide.

Organised by Alliance Française Kampala in partnership with Talent Africa Group, the concert will bring together music, art, food and cultural performances aimed at strengthening cultural ties between Uganda and the Francophone world.

Leading the lineup are trending Ugandan artists Elijah Kitaka and Tracy Melon, who will headline a diverse group of performers drawn from the country’s vibrant entertainment scene.

They will be joined by Aliddeki Brian, Ssewa Ssewa, Professor Joewi, Sandra Nansambu, Blackqueen, and Sheila Salta, while the music will be kept flowing by DJs DJ Valet and DJ Rocky.

The event will also feature cultural performances from Impudu Cultural Group from Rwanda, alongside Uganda’s iconic Royal Drums, adding a rich traditional touch to the celebration.

Beyond music, the festival will highlight Uganda’s cultural heritage through traditional dance performances, poetry and storytelling sessions presented in French and local languages. Visitors will also be able to explore exhibitions of Ugandan crafts and art.

Food lovers will not be left out, with stalls serving authentic Ugandan dishes and live cooking demonstrations offering guests a taste of local flavours.

Schools and universities are also expected to take part in performances, workshops and cultural exchanges designed to encourage young people to connect with the Francophone world.

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Ugandan dancehall singer Daxx Kartel has criticised what he calls misplaced praise within the music industry, arguing that talent is increasingly being overshadowed by image and hype.

Speaking during an interview on NBS TV, the outspoken singer said the industry has developed a tendency to celebrate performers who, in his view, have not yet earned the recognition they receive.

“This industry has a tendency of appreciating those who don’t deserve it,” Daxx Kartel said. “I don’t mince words because I am old enough. They praise someone for their body shape, yet they sing like success cards.”

According to the singer, part of the problem stems from the failure to clearly distinguish between two types of artists in the music industry: performing artists and recording artists.

“There is a performing artist and a recording artist, and it is time to differentiate the two,” he explained.

Daxx Kartel added that some musicians may not necessarily have strong stage presence or visual appeal in music videos but possess exceptional vocal ability that shines in studio recordings.

“There is an artist who doesn’t appear well in videos, but his delivery is good and he should only stop in audio to record an album,” he said.

His remarks add to the ongoing debate within Uganda’s entertainment industry about whether image and popularity are beginning to outweigh raw musical talent.

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Ugandan singer Spice Diana has expressed disappointment over the recent meeting between creatives and President Yoweri Museveni, saying the engagement failed to address the real challenges artists face in their daily work.

Speaking in a recent interview, the singer said she had expected the discussions to focus more on structural solutions that could help creatives earn sustainably rather than relying on short-term support.

According to Spice Diana, one of the biggest missed opportunities was addressing restrictions that require Ugandans to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to access Facebook, which she says has greatly affected artists’ online reach and income.

“The meeting between creatives and the president… I expected things like removing VPN from Facebook,” she said. “I remember a time when I used to get a million views on Facebook, but it’s not possible now because of VPN.”

For an industry that increasingly depends on digital platforms for promotion and monetization, the singer believes restoring normal access to platforms like Facebook would significantly boost opportunities for Ugandan artists.

“That alone is a structure that works for us all,” she explained. “It’s something we can earn from for a long time, not like the handouts people receive whether you have seen the president or not.”

Spice Diana also pointed to the need for better organization and infrastructure within the creative sector, saying many artists invest heavily in their craft without sufficient support systems.

“Being a creative you invest so much,” she said. “If the government is to help creatives, they should first organize where they work from.”

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Ugandan singer A Pass has raised concerns about Uganda’s ability to compete on the global music stage, arguing that the biggest challenge for many local artists is not talent but access to international networks.

Speaking during an appearance on The Beat on NTV Uganda, the outspoken artist said most Ugandan musicians lack the kind of international record label backing needed to push their music beyond regional markets.

According to A Pass, only a few artists currently have the connections required to break into major global markets.

“One thing people don’t realize is that we don’t have artists on international record labels that can push their songs,” he said.

He pointed to rising Ugandan singer Joshua Baraka as one of the few artists making progress internationally, partly because of his connections abroad.

“The ones who are trying are maybe people like Joshua Baraka, and that is because he has people in the UK. That makes it easier for him to capture a market like that,” A Pass explained.

The Wuuyo hitmaker said having people operating within key global music hubs can make a significant difference in how far an artist’s music travels.

“That is why it becomes easier for them to penetrate those markets,” he said. “They have people in those pockets.”

However, A Pass also suggested that the type of music that dominates the Ugandan market may not always align with global trends.

“I even feel that the taste of music that the majority like here is not internationally viable,” he noted. “A lot of it doesn’t work there because what is on the world standard is a different kind of music.”

His comments add to the ongoing conversation about how Ugandan artists can expand their reach and compete more effectively on the international music scene.

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Determination, Courage and Patriotism Driving NRM’s Golden Son Bulegeya to Serve President Museveni’s Government
By Brian Mugenyi

MASAKA – In the often turbulent political terrain of Greater Masaka, one name has increasingly become synonymous with resilience, mobilisation and loyalty to the ruling party: Rogers Bulegeya.

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Masaka City chairman and former Youth League leader has steadily built a reputation as one of the ruling party’s most energetic mobilisers in a region historically considered an opposition stronghold.

For Bulegeya, politics is not merely about holding office—it is about service, determination and patriotism.

Supporters say these traits have helped him rally youth and grassroots supporters behind President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, whose leadership they credit for restoring peace and driving economic development in Uganda since 1986.

Inspired by Museveni

Bulegeya often credits his political inspiration to President Museveni, whom he describes as a mentor and guiding force.

According to him, the President’s teachings on leadership, patriotism and discipline have shaped his approach to politics and public service.

As Uganda headed toward the decisive stages of the 2026 general elections—where Museveni secured a seventh term with 71 percent of the vote—Bulegeya intensified mobilisation efforts in Masaka City and the wider region.

Observers say his influence has helped the NRM regain visibility in areas that previously leaned heavily toward the opposition.

Today, it is not unusual to see NRM supporters openly wearing party T-shirts, blowing vuvuzelas and carrying portraits of Museveni through Masaka’s streets—scenes that were rare only a few years ago.

A Unifying Figure

Bulegeya’s supporters say one of his biggest strengths is his ability to work across political divides.

Despite being a staunch NRM leader, he has built relationships with people from different political backgrounds, encouraging dialogue and cooperation rather than confrontation.

That approach, insiders say, has helped draw several former opposition supporters toward the NRM.

Guided by senior figures within the party—including NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong’s office and local party leaders such as Hajjat Sarah Kiyimba of Brovad Hotel and businessman Benon Mugarura—Bulegeya has emerged as a rising figure within the party’s grassroots structures.

Museveni’s Vote of Confidence

On March 11, 2026, during a stopover at State Lodge Kizungu in Masaka City, President Museveni publicly acknowledged Bulegeya’s leadership.

Addressing party supporters, Museveni encouraged them to channel their concerns through Bulegeya.

“Calm down. For all your problems, address them to me through your leader Mr Bulegeya,” the President told supporters during the interaction.

The statement was widely interpreted by local NRM supporters as a sign of trust and recognition of Bulegeya’s mobilization role in the region.

Youth Mobilisation at the Centre

For more than two decades, Bulegeya has focused on youth mobilisation and empowerment.

Through SACCO initiatives and community development programmes, he has encouraged young people to form savings groups and start businesses rather than relying solely on political patronage.

“We have been rallying youths to work together, form SACCOs and start their own businesses,” Bulegeya said in a recent interview.

Under the Masaka Youths SACCO umbrella, members have reportedly saved close to Shs50 million, with plans to raise up to Shs400 million to finance larger youth-led projects.

A Legacy of Service

Born to the late Emmanuel Bulegeya and Rebecca Nabunja of Masaka City, Rogers Bulegeya says his leadership values were heavily influenced by his father.

His father, a respected human rights activist in the region, was recognised by the Kabaka of Buganda, Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, for his community service.

Bulegeya, a born-again Christian affiliated with Liberty Church in Masaka, says faith and discipline have remained central to his leadership philosophy.

Inside his office hang portraits of both President Museveni and the Kabaka of Buganda—symbols, he says, of the dual inspiration that guides his public service.

Beyond Politics

Away from political mobilisation, Bulegeya is also involved in business and social initiatives.

He runs R&R Services Limited, a company dealing in manufacturing and supplies, and is associated with ER Harvard Associates, an advocacy consultancy that handles land and social affairs.

He is also the founder of Women for Better Life, an initiative aimed at empowering women through skills development, water and sanitation projects and sports programmes in the Masaka region.

Bulegeya hopes the initiative can eventually work closely with First Lady and Education Minister Janet Museveni.

Looking Ahead

Despite the challenges that come with grassroots politics—including funding constraints and internal party rivalries—Bulegeya remains optimistic about the future.

He believes youth empowerment and economic initiatives will play a key role in strengthening the NRM’s support base.

“Politics is tough,” he says. “It requires commitment, perseverance and sacrifice. But when you serve people genuinely, they see the difference.”

For many within the NRM ranks in Greater Masaka, Rogers Bulegeya represents a new generation of party leaders—determined, energetic and deeply loyal to President Museveni’s political vision.

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MASAKA – The National Resistance Movement (NRM) lead mobiliser in Greater Masaka, Mr. Oscar Mutebi, has called on the government to suspend taxes on medical equipment donated by investors, warning that current levies are undermining efforts to improve healthcare and education in rural Masaka.

Mutebi, who serves as Personal Assistant to Vice President Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi emeritus, toured Rural Masaka District on Friday, March 13, 2026, delivering social services in collaboration with Bulamu Access Foundation, a Netherlands-based NGO focused on healthcare and education. The initiative included the donation of two mobile ultrasound machines to Kyanamukaka Health Centre III.

“I request the government, through His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and the Ministry of Health, to stop taxing medical equipment brought in by investors for charity,” Mutebi said. “These levies discourage investors from supporting critical services in our rural health centres.”

During the visit, Mutebi also addressed challenges at St. Mugaga Secondary School in Kyanamukaka Town Council, a government-aided vocational school with over 1,000 students, 60 percent of whom are girls. Students face overcrowded classrooms, poorly constructed bathing facilities, inadequate dormitories, and limited access to electricity and clean water.

Mutebi applauded Bulamu Access Foundation for supporting the school with sanitary pads and other welfare materials, while calling on the government, particularly the Ministry of Education led by First Lady Janet Museveni, to provide additional resources, including constructed bathing rooms and improved sanitation facilities.

School Headteacher Peace Magoba Bukenya said the school has 20 computers for all students and limited internet access, hindering innovation and learning. She also highlighted ongoing health challenges among students, including malaria and STIs, and called for increased support for school health programmes.

Kyanamukaka Town Council Mayor Zaina Nakidde praised the initiative, noting that the donations of ultrasound machines and sanitary supplies would significantly improve community health services.

Mutebi emphasized that the partnership between government, investors, and NGOs is critical for the development of rural Masaka, but urged urgent government intervention to remove taxes on donated medical equipment so that essential services can reach those in need without financial barriers.

“Our focus is to improve health and education welfare in Masaka. But without government support to ease these taxation hurdles, our efforts will be limited,” he said.

The call by Mutebi highlights a growing concern among local leaders and development partners that high levies on donated medical equipment discourage private and foreign investment in essential social services, leaving rural communities at a disadvantage.

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Musician Dax Vibez has revealed that Bobi Wine keeping a distance from the family has helped improve their safety.

Dax Vibez, who is the youngest member of the Sentamu family, said he grew up under the mentorship of Bobi Wine and several of his siblings.

However, speaking in an interview with a local television station, the singer explained that the political journey of the opposition leader has made family members potential targets for his enemies.

According to Dax Vibez, Bobi Wine staying away from the family reduces the risks they face.

“When he keeps away from us, we are a bit safe. Being close to us has brought insecurity. We live in fear and we are now safe because he is away,” he said.

Despite the concerns about security, Dax Vibez said the family remains proud of Bobi Wine for his political journey and his continued fight for the country’s leadership.

Bobi Wine, the president of the National Unity Platform, recently announced that he had left the country and sought refuge in Europe.

The politician had reportedly been in hiding for more than two months following the 2026 Ugandan General Elections.

 

Ugandan artists are rallying for royalty payments in Copyright Bill Debate in Parliament.

Clause 9 of the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights (Amendment) Bill, 2025, would require broadcasters and venues to pay producers and performers for commercial plays of their music. Justice Minister Norbert Mao highlighted artists’ frustrations with exploitation without earnings, while Speaker Anita Among argued airplay already promotes them.

Supporters like Bugweri District Woman MP Rachel Magoola stressed it’s a global standard, but the debate was this week halted on the floor of Parliament due to lack of quorum and resumes March 17. Artists including Sheebah Karungi and Ykee Benda urge backing the clause to protect the industry.

According to Sheebah, Ugandan musicians invest millions producing music and shooting videos, yet they still have to pay radio stations, TV stations and bloggers to promote their work.

“Clause 9 of the Copyright Amendment simply guarantees that when our music is played, artists are paid. If Clause 9 is removed, then this amendment defeats its purpose and the creative industry will continue bleeding,” she said before calling upon all musicians to speak up and defend their rights.

“To government, we ask for fairness. It’s time to do the right thing,” she added.

 

THE AMENDMENT;

Going by definition alone , Copyright is a law that grants creatives exclusive legal rights to their original copy , amending it without enforcing clause 9 which is what really enforces the definition of the law would be atrocious , The times are changing and a…

— YKEE BENDA (@YkeeBenda) March 14, 2026

 

 

Copyright law. Clause 9 . Copyright law. Clause 9.
Our art matters – our voice matters
Don’t use us for temporary gain and later change your word
We aren’t beggars – We don’t need cash payouts.
We need our rights reserved and our works respected.

— Pia (@pia_pounds) March 14, 2026

 

 

Big facts! The creative industry can’t keep bleeding while everyone else profits from our work. Clause 9 stays or the whole amendment is meaningless. Fellow artists, let’s unite and make our voices louder. Government, listen to the people who make culture alive.

— Claire Doris Mutsangya ?? (@clairemutsangya) March 14, 2026

Ugandan musicians are rallying behind Clause 9 of the Copyright Amendment Bill Uganda as the proposed law returns to the Parliament of Uganda for debate this Tuesday.

Clause 9 is one of the most controversial sections of the bill because it would require radio and television stations to pay musicians whenever their music is played.

However, during discussions in Parliament last week, some legislators reportedly suggested removing Clause 9 from the bill — a move that has angered many artists across the music industry.

Several musicians have openly criticized the proposal, insisting the clause is essential for protecting the livelihoods of artists.

Members of the popular music group B2C expressed frustration with lawmakers, accusing them of being disconnected from the realities of the creative industry.

“What happened in Parliament recently is a clear indication of leaders detached from society,” the group said in a statement.

They further argued that many lawmakers do not fully understand the value of intellectual property and are protecting their own interests.

“These selfish individuals refuse to understand the advantages of copyright because they own radios and TV stations. Imagine the argument that ‘we can’t pay royalties because the radio is helping you.’ Absurd. Art is intellectual property, not just entertainment.”

Ugandan singer Sheebah Karungi also voiced strong support for keeping Clause 9 in the bill.

According to Sheebah, removing the clause would defeat the entire purpose of the amendment and continue to disadvantage musicians.

“Ugandan musicians invest millions producing music and shooting videos, yet we still have to pay radio stations, TV stations and bloggers just to promote our own work,” she said.

She added that Clause 9 is meant to ensure artists finally receive compensation when their work is used by broadcasters.

“If Clause 9 is removed, then this amendment defeats its purpose and the creative industry will continue bleeding.”

Sheebah called on fellow musicians to speak out and defend their rights as the debate continues in Parliament.