Renowned Ugandan singer Juliana Kanyomozi has expressed her displeasure with certain jokes made by Ugandan comedians, including Patrick Salvado, that she feels cross the line into offensive territory by over-emphasizing tribal differences.
In a recent interview on the 8th episode of her series “The Sit Down with Juliana,” Juliana openly discussed her concerns about tribalistic humor.
“I have seen people who are offended by those (tribalistic) jokes, and frankly even I have been offended sometimes when they make fun of Batooro,” she remarked.
As a Mutooro woman and cousin to the reigning Tooro monarch Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru IV, Juliana finds the frequent mockery of her tribe by comedians particularly troubling. She emphasized that such jokes often go too far, affecting not just her but also others who share her heritage.
In response, comedian Salvado defended the use of tribal-based humor, suggesting it is a common practice worldwide. “In the US, they talk about black and white and racism because that is what they have. If you think we have tribalism, go to Nigeria,” he stated. Salvado acknowledged that while some comedians may overstep boundaries, these jokes are often rooted in cultural distinctions.
He explained, “The truth of the matter is that Batooro, you are so calm and slow to anger. If I, for instance, compare you to an Acholi woman, that is where the comedy comes from.”
Despite Salvado’s defense, Juliana insisted that comedians should strive to avoid crossing certain lines in their performances.
Who is Juliana Kanyomozi?
Born on November 27, 1980, in Kampala to Prince Gerald Manyindo and Catherine Manyindo, Juliana Kanyomozi grew up in Kampala and attended Bugema Adventist S.S. before joining Namasagali College. Her musical talent is a family trait, as her father loved music and drummed in his spare time.
Juliana’s musical journey began in earnest at Namasagali College, where she was encouraged by Father Damian Grimes, the headteacher, to join a dance class after he heard her sing a Mariah Carey song at a school event.
She started performing karaoke at 16, thanks to her brother Eddie Kim, a DJ at Sabrina’s Pub, which was owned by producer Hope Mukasa.
During her S.6 vacation, Juliana performed regularly at Sabrina’s Pub, where she met Steve Jean, who produced her first song and the album she created with Iryn Namubiru as part of the duo I-Jay.
Her first big break came with the song “Tata W’abaana” with Bobi Wine, followed by another hit, “Mama Mbire.”
Juliana also ventured into radio, working as a host at Capital FM for about six years during her S.6 vacation. Additionally, she showcased her acting talent in the movie “Kiwani,” created by Henry Ssali, a former Daily Monitor Entertainment writer who now owns a PR firm.
Juliana Kanyomozi continues to be a significant figure in Ugandan music and media, advocating for respectful and thoughtful humor in the country’s comedy scene.
