Uganda's Eddy Kenzo, Rema Namakula nominated for Young Achievers Awards

The two will battle it out in the Performing Arts category alongside H2C Dance Company, author Ivan Mulumba and arts entrepreneur Felix Byaruhanga.

The awards, which are organised by Reach a Hand Uganda (RAHU), reward outstanding young people who have excelled in entrepreneurship, journalism, philanthropy, sports, innovation and the arts.

Speaking during the ceremony at Kampala Serena Hotel on Wednesday, RAHU founder Humphrey Nabimanya said the company was committed to supporting young people to reach their full potential.

“As RAHU our commitment is to ensure that we put the youth at the frontline so that they can realise their maximum potential in whatever they are doing,” he said.

“Celebrating the youth who are contributing to the development of Uganda does not only empower them but also gives guidance and support to the youth whose efforts are rarely recognised. This therefore encourages them to push their ideas and businesses to even greater heights.”

Namakula told Music In Africa that she was honoured by the recognition.

“It is rewarding to see something that someone worked so hard for being recognised,” she said. “I've had such a successful year and this nomination could not have come at a better time. I am grateful to the organisers for acknowledging musicians because we're are very serious about what we produce and create."

The singer, who has also received an AFRIMMA nomination under the Best Female East Africa category, said she was considering working with other artists to expand her brand.

“Those who know me are aware of the fact that I rarely do collabos. However, having travelled and interacted with many artists I feel the need to do so for my fans and personal growth. I should be releasing a collaborative song by the end of the year.”

The winners of the 2018 Young Achievers Awards will be revealed on 11 August ahead of the awards ceremony at Kampala Serena Hotel on 18 August.