Northern Uganda is home to some of the country's most talented musicians and singers, but they're facing an uphill battle with local radio presenters and radio stations who demand payment in exchange for airplay.
This requirement does not exist for buganda or international music acts; only homegrown talent must pay. It is considered a disgraceful practice that is both a disservice to the young, growing music industry of the region, and an indication of the selfishness and greed of those involved.
The practice of requesting money for airplay not only takes advantage of young musicians, but it also creates a gap between local talent and those from outside the region. They take advantage of the lack of experience among young and upcoming artists by exploiting them, leaving many to turn away from ever wanting to join the industry.
It's no secret that these radio presenters ask for payments from local artists and it has become an accepted part of their daily operations. When questioned about their practices publicly, many will often deny it's existence.
One anonymous artist told reporters he was once asked to pay 500,000 UGX (Ugandan Shillings) for his song to receive regular airplay every hour like an advert. It’s easy to see why many artists choose not to speak out on this issue out of fear of being blacklisted by their peers and risking future career opportunities.
Unfortunately, it's difficult to make a sweeping statement about the prevalence of this type of demand in northern Ugandan radio as not all presenters or stations ask for such payments; many deny that it takes place publicly, but rumors remain rampant within the community. It appears many resort to blackmailing artists by telling them "you need us more than we need you" or similar lines.
This makes it hard for artists to push back against these unfair requests without any repercussion.
Although it’s true that not all radio stations in northern Uganda partake in such bribery practices, enough do that the region's entire music industry is suffering as a result.
The struggle is real for Ugandan artists attempting to make it in their own region. This obstacle cannot be overlooked or taken lightly any longer.
By Emmanuel Obua.
