Kenzo Explains Why UNMF Did Not Hand Out UGX 100 Million to Musicians

Eddy Kenzo has defended the Uganda National Musicians Federation‘s handling of the controversial UGX 100 million support funds, saying the federation chose to invest in long-term industry programmes rather than hand out cash to individual artistes.

As president of the federation, Kenzo said many people expected musicians to receive direct payouts from the funds, but UNMF focused on initiatives it believes can strengthen the industry over time.

When people hear about money, they immediately think it was shared among individuals. Our focus has always been on creating systems that benefit musicians as a whole.

According to Kenzo, the federation has invested in training programmes, copyright awareness campaigns, and other industry development initiatives designed to create opportunities for musicians beyond short-term financial support.

He believes the demand for quick results often overshadows efforts to build structures that can serve artistes for years.

The biggest challenge is that many artistes want quick results, yet the industry requires structures that can support everyone for years to come.

Kenzo argued that the federation’s goal extends beyond immediate financial relief and focuses instead on strengthening the foundations of Uganda’s music industry.

He maintains that strong systems, not cash handouts, will deliver lasting benefits to musicians.