Kenzo: My sacrifices have finally paid off

Renowned singer Edrisah Musuuza, popularly known as Eddy Kenzo, has reflected on the personal sacrifices that paved the way for his new role as the presidential advisor on creatives.

Kenzo highlighted the societal biases faced by individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds and the surprise often expressed when such individuals achieve success.

"In my journey, I avoided a lot of things, and finally, my sacrifices are paying off," Kenzo shared, acknowledging the challenges he has faced.

"People always wonder how a musician can marry a minister, but they forget what I sacrificed; I had to forego using drugs, drinking alcohol, insulting people, and hyping myself."

He also commended President Museveni for recognising and nurturing diverse talents for national development.

"I thank the president for using wisdom to govern this country because when you look at how people see us, the people from the Ghetto, they do not see much value in us," Kenzo said.

He expressed deep gratitude to President Museveni for recognizing his contributions to the creative industry.

Kenzo, a celebrated musician and President of the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF), emphasized that his appointment serves as a beacon of hope for many young people from humble backgrounds, particularly those from the ghetto.

"The president is able to identify the different talents that can help him run the nation," he added.

Kenzo believes his efforts to unite creatives from all parts of Uganda, not just the capital, played a significant role in earning the president's confidence.

"I united our people, and I think the president was impressed by this," he stated.

He sees his new role as an opportunity to address long-standing issues within the creative sector, which he feels has been neglected for too long.

Kenzo highlighted the lack of copyright laws, insufficient support, and the absence of the creative industry in the national budget as key areas that need urgent attention.

In his new capacity, Kenzo aims to advocate for these issues and bring tangible improvements to the sector.

His appointment comes at a time when many in the creative industry are eager to see the amendment of the Copyright and Neighboring Rights Act of 2006, which many believe will help solve a myriad of challenges in the industry and create a level playing field for artists to benefit from their intellectual work.

As a renowned musician and leader of an umbrella body that brings together various associations of musicians in Uganda, Kenzo's new role is seen as a significant duty assigned by the President, who, according to many analysts, has only recently begun to fully recognize the impact of art and music on the country’s politics.

Kenzo joins a growing list of musicians who have had the opportunity to work with the President as envoys and advisers in different capacities.

This list includes Mark Bugembe, alias Bucha Man, who was appointed as the President's special envoy to the ghetto, Catherine Kusasira, appointed as the Presidential advisor on Kampala, and Jennifer Nakanguubi, commonly known as Full Figure.

One of the significant tasks awaiting the BET Award winner will be to advise the Fountain of Honor on the real issues and needs of an industry that has the potential to create employment and income-generating opportunities for many young Ugandans.

The creative industry landscape in Uganda covers a range of sectors, including fashion, visual arts, film, literature, performing arts, cultural and natural heritage, audio-visual interactive media, among others.