TAKEAWAYS

• Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja announced the disbursement of Shs7 billion to music promoters.
• The fund follows President Museveni’s intervention after promoters raised concerns about access to affordable financing.
• Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi and leading promoters have called for transparency and equitable distribution of the funds.

Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja officially handed over Shs7 billion to music promoters, marking a major step in the implementation of President Yoweri Museveni’s pledge to support Uganda’s events and entertainment industry.

The announcement came after a meeting between the Prime Minister and music promoters, who have long argued that limited access to affordable financing has hindered their ability to organize successful events.

According to Nabbanja, promoters previously appealed to President Museveni, explaining that many were struggling with expensive loans and limited capital to stage concerts and other entertainment events. The President subsequently directed that support be extended to the sector through a structured association.

“The President listened to the concerns of music promoters and agreed that they should be supported through their SACCO to strengthen their businesses and improve access to affordable financing,” Nabbanja said.

The Prime Minister revealed that while promoters had initially been promised Shs10 billion, Shs7 billion is now set for disbursement, with the funds expected to reach beneficiaries by the end of the week. This is after they had previously received 3 billion shillings.

She urged beneficiaries to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of the money, emphasizing that the fund is intended to benefit the wider industry rather than a select few individuals.

Prominent promoters including Bajjo Events and Nobat Events welcomed the government intervention, thanking President Museveni for recognizing the contribution of the entertainment sector to the economy.

“This support may not solve every challenge immediately, but it is a significant boost for promoters who have struggled to access affordable capital,” one promoter noted.

Meanwhile, Minister of Local Government Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, who is also an events promoter, applauded the initiative and cautioned beneficiaries against mismanaging the funds.