Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) has condemned acts of violence and tribal sentiments in the music industry following a misunderstanding between musicians Ray G and Azawi.
Music fans were split following a stage clash between Azawi, real name Priscilla Zawedde, and Ray G (Reagan Muhairwe) last week. The fans have since then resorted to using tribal sentiments, with bottles being pelted at Ray G at the just concluded Enkuka, an event organised by Buganda Kingdom.
Edrisah Musuuza, alias Eddy Kenzi, the Federation’s President, has come out to condemn violence and tribal sentiments. Kenzo says Uganda is rich with diverse cultures and no one chooses where to fall.
“I personally condemn acts of violence and tribalism within the industry because our Ugandan culture is rich because of its diversity, and let’s be reminded that we don’t choose who we are,” he said in a statement.
He added: “I have been following closely as events unfold, both in Mbarara and Kampala, about the tribal sentiments, and I must tell you, it’s absurd for our industry at this time, when our main focus is unity.”
Kenzo says he has been following the clash between Ray G and Azawi and has directed the Federation’s Secretariat to fully investigate the incident that caused the clash and to come up with a report.
“I have directed the Uganda National Musicians Federation Secretariat to fully investigate and give a report from which findings the executive will advise,” he added.
He has urged association leaders from the Greater Ankole Region, from where Ray G hails, to work with the Secretariat to ensure that sanity prevails again in the industry, adding that the delayed response was due to the busy Christmas schedules.
