It was meant to be a celebratory press briefing at the MTN Uganda Headquarters—a moment to unveil legendary songstress Halima Namakula’s upcoming concert set for July 26, 2025 at Serena Hotel. But what unfolded was a raw, unfiltered, and emotional conversation about the systemic neglect of Uganda’s creative industry.
With MTN Uganda and MoMo as lead sponsors of Halima’s 50-Year Legacy Concert (marking five decades in music and 25 years of philanthropy), the event attracted key stakeholders—artists, media, sponsors, and cultural icons. But it was a provocative question I asked Halima Namakula that opened the floodgates to a deeper truth.
The Interview
Emuk Benjamen:
Mama Halima, apart from the usual enabling environment and copyright protections, has the government given you any concrete support for this landmark concert—financially or institutionally? You’ve put Uganda on the map musically and in philanthropy. Surely this deserves direct national recognition?
She paused. Measured her words. Then gave what felt like a carefully cautious reply.
Halima Namakula:
Well, the government has been trying to promote copyright and…
Emuk (pressing further):
With due respect, Mama—copyright and peace are constitutional duties, not gifts. What has the government done for you? Tangibly?
Before she could respond, the ever-forthright Dr. Sam Bbosa, veteran actor and voice for arts professionals, stepped in:
“We must say it as it is. The government has done very little. While we appreciate copyright reform, that’s not support. Uganda urgently needs a dedicated Ministry for Creatives—run by technocrats, not artists. Only then can creatives thrive without constant begging or being used for politics.”
That was the trigger. Halima’s tone changed. The diplomacy dropped.
Halima (passionately):
Benjamen, to be honest—I have not received even a coin from the government. Nothing. I’ve served this nation through music and community work for decades, but the government only remembers us when they need campaign songs or mobilization. Then we’re forgotten.
Let me instead thank MTN Uganda—they’ve walked this journey with us. Their support is real, consistent, and generous. We wish more entities followed that example.
A Show of Support: Artists Speak Up
Despite her heartbreak, Halima was uplifted by the presence of fellow artists—each offering heartfelt tributes.
Rachael K (daughter, singer & head of organizing committee):
My mother is a woman of God and grace. I’m proud to organize this concert for her. She prays with me, encourages me, and continues to inspire through her humility and strength.
Irene Ntale:
Mama Halima’s music shaped my childhood. I wanted to be a doctor, but her voice changed my path. Today I earn from the microphone because her songs inspired me to dream differently.
Naava Grey:
Few artists today can rival Mama Halima’s legacy. 50 years is no small feat—and her music still feels fresh. She is timeless, and we celebrate her now—not posthumously.
Halima also reserved special appreciation for Steve Jean and Fenon Records, who are producing the concert.
Steve produced my hit “Ekibemwo”—a track that made waves and earned me the nickname Mrs. Ekibemwo. To have him on board again is nostalgic and powerful.
Corporate Commitment: MTN Steps Up
John Bosco Okwi, Manager of Events and Sponsorships at MTN Uganda, laid out the telco giant’s role:
“We’re supporting this concert in three ways: a direct cash sponsorship of over Shs 30 million, MoMo ticketing integration, and interactive caller tunes that offer fans the chance to win exciting prizes.”
“We’re proud to be part of a growing culture of celebrating legends while they are still alive.”
Uganda’s Music Industry: Growth Amidst Gaps
Uganda’s music scene has exploded in creativity and global appeal. The 1990s and early 2000s saw the rise of dynamic trailblazers like Chameleone, Juliana, Bobi Wine, and Bebe Cool. Today, stars like Azawi, Joshua Baraka, Spice Diana, and Liam Voice are pushing boundaries on the digital frontier.
But behind the glitter is a lack of institutional grounding:
What’s Working
- Growing digital adoption: Artists are monetizing music via YouTube, Boomplay, and Spotify.
- Corporate partnerships: Brands like MTN, Coca-Cola, and Guinness are investing in music.
- Regional crossover: Ugandan music is reaching East Africa, diaspora markets, and beyond.
What’s Broken
- No dedicated Ministry for Creatives
- Scattered and ineffective copyright management
- No national arts fund or grants
- No healthcare or pension support for artists
- Lack of professional arts academies and incubation spaces
What Government Must Do—Now
Create a Ministry of Creative Industries & Cultural Affairs
A centralized, technocrat-run body to oversee music, film, dance, fashion, and publishing.
Establish a National Creative Fund
Provide grants and low-interest loans to artists, event organizers, and studios.
Reform Royalties & Intellectual Property Enforcement
Digitize and strengthen royalty collection so musicians earn from airplay and streaming.
Support Talent Development at Community Level
Build arts schools and creative hubs across regions, not just in Kampala.
Offer Tax Incentives to Creative SMEs
Make it easier for music labels, production houses, and studios to thrive financially.
Final Thought
Halima Namakula’s legacy is not just in her music—it’s in the fight she represents. A fight for dignity, for visibility, and for institutional support that matches her decades of national service through the arts.
As Dr. Bbosa aptly concluded:
“Benjie, the government needs to stop pretending it supports creatives. We don’t need statements. We need systems. That’s how you build a nation with a soul.”
And Uganda, indeed, has a rich soul—it just needs to honor its artists before history does
