As corruption rocks Uganda, popular ugandan musician Cindy Sanyu has called for an investigation into the distribution of Shs13 billion funds that government allocated to the creative industry.
This year, government disbursed Shs9billion out of 13billion to the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) led by Edrisa Musuuza alias Eddy Kenzo to improve the welfare of artists in Uganda.
However Cindy expressed frustration over the distribution of the funds, saying only established members of UNMF have benefited.
She said that while all musicians associations were to get the funds, Uganda Musicians’ Association (UMA) members have not received any share.
“If the President gave funding to the music industry all of us in the industry should benefit, including me. We in UMA have not received any money,” Cindy said.
The Full Package hit singer called for investigations into how the funds were shared and distributed.
“We need to know how many musicians there are in the industry and how the money should help. We need to know why the money ended up in Mutundwe. It means nothing. Anyone investigating, please help us, because we are still confused,” she said.
UMA’s Phina Mugerwa urged Eddy Kenzo value efforts of other artists in the industry out side UNMF.
Swangz Avenue singer Azawi also complained about the funds, saying only established artists had benefited from them.
“It’s shocking that the already “established” artists are the ones that got the fattest amounts and are not obliged to pay back. However, those who struggle are the ones who are borrowing with no duty to pay back,” Azawi said on X months ago.
According to reports, UNMF President Kenzo and his deputy Sheeba Karungi each received Shs200m, while other top members such as Ykee Benda, Hanison Baliruno, David Lutalo each got Shs100 million.
Last month, Mawokota North MP, Hillary Kiyaga alias Dr. Hilderman, who pushed for the funds allocation, reminded the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) to get ready to account for the funds in question.
“I am not in the federation but just an artist. It’s a responsibility for those that receive money to be use the funds for the intenteded purposes. As the Shadow Minister for Arts, it’s my responsibility to demand accountability. If they misused the money, I’m waiting for them because accountability is very important,” Hilderman said
