By BigEyeUg Team
In a significant development for Uganda’s music industry, the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) has received financial backing from the government, as confirmed by President Eddy Kenzo.
The support comes in the form of a grant aimed at bolstering the federation’s SACCO (Savings and Credit Cooperative Organization), a vital financial resource for musicians.
President Eddy Kenzo disclosed the news during an interview on a local TV station, stating, “We received a grant from the government to support our SACCO. It was half of what we had requested for. However, I cannot disclose the exact amount of money we received as it is confidential information for our organization.“
This announcement follows a report in February indicating that over UGX 8 Billion was allocated to UNMF by the government office under the leadership of Minister of State for Finance, Planning, and Economic Development (Microfinance), Hon. Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo.
This allocation was part of a larger UGX 13 Billion stimulus package intended to support various activities and welfare initiatives within the music industry.
Furthermore, Minister Kasolo affirmed that the remaining UGX 5 Billion would soon be allocated to Eddy Kenzo and his team, highlighting the government’s commitment to supporting musicians’ endeavors.
However, the disbursement of this funding has evoked mixed reactions within the art sector.
While some view it as a significant step towards uplifting musicians’ livelihoods and promoting the industry’s growth, others express concerns regarding the equitable distribution of funds and transparency in the process.
The support provided by the government underscores its recognition of the vital role played by the music industry in Uganda’s cultural and economic landscape.
As stakeholders navigate the complexities of resource allocation and implementation, the hope is that these efforts will contribute to a more sustainable and prosperous future for musicians across the country.
We will keep you posted
