Uganda-based South Sudanese singer, songwriter and producer Lucky Pro has welcomed the introduction of a South Sudanese Artist of the Year category in the upcoming edition of the Northern Uganda Music Awards (NUMA), describing the development as good news while urging South Sudanese musicians and stakeholders to prioritise building their own music industry.
In his remarks, Lucky Pro acknowledged that NUMA's decision to include South Sudanese artists was a positive development, noting that the participation of South Sudanese musicians would likely attract audiences from South Sudan and contribute to the event's visibility.
However, he cautioned against celebrating the inclusion without giving equal attention to the long-term development of the South Sudanese music industry.
"Let's not celebrate simply because we have been included in NUMA. Instead, let's focus on building our own music industry," Lucky Pro emphasised.
He observed that while NUMA could benefit from attracting South Sudanese audiences, he was not convinced that the awards would bring significant benefits to the growth of South Sudan's music industry, except perhaps in the context of strengthening musical and cultural connections with the Acholi community.
Lucky Pro further called on artists and the wider Acholi community in both Uganda and South Sudan to maintain their historical and cultural bonds, stressing that their shared ancestry and heritage should remain a foundation for unity rather than division.
He encouraged stronger collaboration between musicians from the two countries, including creating more opportunities for South Sudanese artists to travel to Uganda and perform on local stages.
Addressing South Sudanese musicians and stakeholders, he also urged them to recognise and support existing award platforms, including LOPSAT and ASSMA, among others, saying such initiatives deserve greater appreciation, support and recognition.
He called on artists to continue producing quality music, supporting one another and working collectively towards establishing a strong and sustainable music industry.
"Let's continue strengthening our connection as one family, from Acholi in Uganda to Acholi in South Sudan. Nothing should divide us because we share the same ancestors and cultural heritage," he stated.
Lucky Pro concluded his message with a call for love, trust and unity among musicians, expressing his affection for the music community and wishing everyone God's blessings.
His remarks come as the forthcoming NUMA edition prepares to recognise South Sudanese talent through a dedicated South Sudanese Artist of the Year category, opening fresh conversations about regional recognition, cross-border collaboration and the importance of developing a strong homegrown music industry.
