TAKEAWAYS

• Dr. Jose Chameleone ditched Uganda for Burundi to launch his own radio station due to massive entry costs.
• The Valu Valu singer says buying a frequency in Uganda now costs up to Shs1 billion because of saturated markets.
• After visiting Burundi on a presidential invite, the icon spotted a huge opening in their small six-station industry.

Leone Island boss and Ugandan music legend Dr. Jose Chameleone has revealed why he decided to take his radio station to Burundi instead of establishing it in Uganda, citing the high cost of acquiring a broadcasting frequency and limited availability in the local market.

According to Chameleone, Uganda already has more than 300 radio stations, leaving very little room for new entrants. He explained that acquiring an existing frequency has become extremely expensive, with some owners reportedly demanding between Shs800 million and Shs1 billion.

The Valu Valu singer said the financial demands made Burundi a more attractive destination for his broadcasting ambitions.

“Uganda has over 300 radio stations, and there is no more room for frequencies. Even those who have frequencies are selling them at between Shs800 million and Shs1 billion,” Chameleone explained.

He revealed that his decision followed a visit to Burundi after receiving an invitation from the country’s president. During the visit, he assessed the country’s broadcasting industry and saw an opportunity to establish his media business in a market he believes is still developing.

“Burundi has about six radio stations, and the industry is still growing. I looked at it as a strategic opportunity,” he added.

Chameleone also pointed out that his decision was not entirely new, revealing that he had previously lived in Burundi for almost a year between 1995 and 1996.

The Basima Ogenze singer’s revelation suggests that his familiarity with the country, coupled with the opportunities he identified in its media industry, played a significant role in choosing Burundi as the home for his radio venture.