TAKEAWAYS

• Ziza Bafana advises Sheebah to stop “wanting to be a man”
• Claims women should embrace humility and traditional roles
• Comments spark public debate over gender norms in Uganda

Ugandan singer Ziza Bafana has stirred fresh controversy after offering unsolicited advice to fellow artist Sheebah Karungi, urging her to “stop wanting to be a man” and instead embrace what he described as traditional female roles.

Bafana, who has recently been vocal in his criticism of industry leadership, particularly within the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF), shifted his focus to Sheebah, questioning her stance and public persona. While acknowledging her talent and success, he argued that she should recognize what he termed as “natural limits.”

He emphasized that men and women were created differently and should operate within those differences, adding that women thrive through humility and discipline rather than dominance.

“As much as she is talented, Sheebah must understand her place as a woman. Nature already defined these roles,” Bafana said.

The “Gyayo Ntekeyo” singer went further, making sweeping claims about societal structures, arguing that most systems and innovations are male-driven. According to him, women are naturally softer and more emotional, making them less suited for certain hardships.

“Women are meant to be protected and provided for. When they try to rule over men, it only brings problems,” he added.

Bafana concluded by advising Sheebah to accept being under a man, insisting that doing so would bring her peace despite her achievements in the music industry.

His remarks have since ignited mixed reactions among fans and observers, with many criticizing his views as outdated, while others see them as a reflection of deeply rooted cultural beliefs.