By KT Reporter
Local artistes in Kagadi District have raised concerns over the continued dominance of Kampala-based musicians during presidential events hosted in the Bunyoro sub-region.
The artistes claim that event organizers often allocate performance opportunities and facilitation funds exclusively to musicians from Kampala, leaving local talent neglected and marginalized in their own communities despite their potential to entertain and promote regional culture.
The concerns were voiced on Thursday during a meeting held at Rock Country Inn in Kagadi Town Council Kagadi district, where artistes gathered to discuss challenges affecting the local entertainment industry.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is expected to launch his presidential campaigns in Western Uganda on November 24, 2025, an event that has reignited debate among local entertainers seeking inclusion.
Asiimwe Raise, a producer and musician, appealed to the organizers of the upcoming presidential campaigns in Bunyoro to offer local artistes a platform to perform, decrying the continuous preference for Kampala-based musicians.
Asiimwe added that local artists have repeatedly felt sidelined in favor of big-name performers from the capital, even during functions held within their home region. He called for reforms and inclusivity in selecting performers for national and presidential events.
Meanwhile, Abigaba Elia, popularly known as MC Simple and chairperson of the Kagadi Musicians Team No Stress Movement SACCO, urged top government officials — including Prime Minister Robinah Nabanja, Finance Minister Matia Kasaija, and State Minister Fred Byamukama — to support local talent and connect them with the Office of the President for recognition and empowerment.
Several musicians speaking during a meeting also lamented that performance fees and campaign facilitation funds are often directed to a small circle of Kampala artists, leaving Bunyoro’s own entertainers without opportunities.
They also highlighted the lack of capital to develop their music careers and appealed for direct support from the President to strengthen the local entertainment industry.
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