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Hon Thomas Tayebwa stresses the need for government support to uplift the music industry, citing its potential for socioeconomic growth. He proposes a music competition between major artists, supported by legal reforms and economic initiatives. Singer Bebe Cool supports the idea, highlighting the positive impact on both the industry and young talents.

Speaker of Parliament Hon. Thomas Tayebwa has stressed that the government must assist the music industry, citing it as one of the paths to the highly desired social economic transformation.

In defense of his prior proposal to pit music giants Jose Chameleon, real name Joseph Mayanja, against Bebe Cool, real name Moses Ssali, Tayebwa stated the industry needs a lot of support, ranging from legal reforms to purposeful economic interventions.

“To say there are more important things to do than promoting the music industry is a clear indication of the neglect, stigmatization, and a lack of understanding of what this sector contributes to our GDP,” added the deputy speaker.

Citing statistics from the Uganda Performance Rights Society (UPRS), he said that by 2030, the sector will be able to employ over 500,000 people and generate UGX280 billion in income.

In a thorough statement on social network X, formerly Twitter, Tayebwa claimed that it currently contributes UGX140 billion to our economy.

We cannot disregard such a sector as leaders. It requires a lot of assistance, from legal changes to intentional economic actions. In addition, music is therapeutic, and some of us turn to it for solace when times are difficult. Let the fights continue!” he exclaimed.

Tayebwa suggested he enjoyed a live music competition between Chameleon and Bebe Cool earlier in the week. Some Ugandans welcomed the notion, while others called him out and urged him to concentrate more on campaigning for copyright legislation that is completely effective.

Singer Bebe Cool responded to the fight by defending Tayebwa’s viewpoint, claiming that a music competition between him and Chameleon would be one that the entire nation would enjoy. She also said that it is proof that the government of Uganda is consistently eager to encourage talent in the country.

He claimed that official sponsorship for the music competition would go a long way toward reassuring young Ugandans who are just starting out in the talent industries (the arts and sports) that the government regards them as full-time employment seriously.

“Musicians have received direct government assistance from Tanzania, South Africa, and Nigeria, and Nigerian musicians are now in charge of the music industry globally. Governments are aware of when their best artists are wealthy and can readily help up-and-coming artists through record labels, according to him.

Bebe Cool claimed that a music competition can increase industry buzz for an entire year.

“I have witnessed individuals fly in from many nations to attend musical performances. Our admirers are spread throughout Africa, and we began our careers in Nairobi, Kenya. A conflict like that might draw tourists to Uganda. This encourages travel. The money that is invested in us eventually trickles down to other artists,” he claimed.

“Managing and promoting an artist requires huge investment. By investing in us, the government is investing in younger artists as well,” Bebe Cool added.