As confusion continues to engulf Uganda’s music industry, at least of 13 musician associations have denounced the newly formed Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) led by Edrisah Musuuza, known by his stage name as Eddy Kenzo.
Sources said the associations wrote to the arts apex body, National Cultural Forum indicating that they were not consulted before the new federation was formed.
The associations also sent copies of their complaint to the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development and Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), asking them to halt the registration of the newly formed UMF that is yet to acquire legal status.
The 13 associations also plan to form a federation whose leaders will reportedly be selected from the delegates at the official AGM in the coming weeks.
The move is reportedly fully backed by the Uganda Musicians Association (UMA), National Cultural Forum and the Ministry of Gender.
The National Cultural Forum Chairman, Dan Kazibwe alias Ragga Dee confirmed to this reporter that the associations were not consulted during the formation of the current federation but further developments will be communicated to the media.
The Uganda National Musicians Federation was created to unite musicians and promote their interests in Uganda by bringing together all associations in the industry under one umbrella.
Its inaugural leadership team was announced on May 5, 2023 at a meeting held in Kampala which also saw Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja as Chief Guest.
