By BigEyeUg Team
Ugandan music star and Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) president Eddy Kenzo has announced plans to resign from his leadership role, citing deep frustrations with the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development over the handling of artists’ funds and failure to align with the Federation’s vision.
In an audio message, Kenzo informed UNMF members through their WhatsApp group that the Ministry of Gender had blocked the release of the remaining UGX 5 billion meant for the artists’ SACCO, despite approval from Gen. Salim Saleh, the Chief Coordinator of Operation Wealth Creation (OWC).
“I approached Gen. Saleh, and he understood our concerns. He ordered the release of the money, but ever since the Ministry was informed, they began creating barriers — saying we haven’t done enough as a Federation and should rebuild our structures,” Kenzo stated.
Kenzo revealed that the Ministry’s current plan is to send the funds directly to individual associations rather than through the Federation — a decision he believes is a direct attempt to cripple UNMF’s authority.
“We had agreed that every association gets UGX 100 million through the Federation, but if the Ministry sends the money directly, then the Federation becomes useless. Some of those associations have leadership we already changed due to mismanagement. It’s not true that we can’t distribute the funds,” he explained.
Kenzo warned that this move could divide and weaken Uganda’s music industry, undoing the unity and progress achieved during his two-year tenure.
Amid growing tension between his leadership and the Ministry, Kenzo said he has chosen to bow out respectfully rather than continue leading amid confusion and political interference.
“Out of respect, I can’t continue in such disorganization. When I return from Acholi, I’ll put in my resignation. I hope you find someone else to carry on because I can’t manage anymore,” he concluded.