Call for applications: Song contest in Uganda

Titled Penda Uganda, the contest will be held annually and will incorporate music, poetry and creative writing.

The contest is an initiation of the Uganda Jubilee Network, a Christian organisation, and Platinum Concepts in partnership with the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development.

The auditions will be conducted by musicians Benon Mugumbya, Geosteady, Sandra Suubi and Sylver Kyagulanyi.

“It is expected that the project will raise new music talent and result in the production of songs that promote patriotism and advocate for the improvement of our society through the promotion of positive societal values,” a press release reads.

Eligibility

The contest is for Ugandans aged between 16 to 25 and is aimed at:

• Nurturing and promoting young people.
• Highlighting the role of music in nation-building.
• Promoting the use of music and the arts in patriotism.
• Strengthening the role of music and the arts in building positive national and family values.

Talented individuals will be identified through an audition process and trained on:

• Songwriting.
• Audio production and recording.
• Stage performance.
• Music marketing.
• The role of music in nation-building.

After the training, participants will be required to write original songs around the theme of Celebrate Uganda. The public will vote for the best songs, which will be compiled into an album.

Prizes

The author of the winning song will receive 10 million Ugandan shillings ($2 700) along with:

• A recording deal for an album.
• Two music videos.

Interested individuals can apply by filling the online registration form here.

Physical copies of the forms can be picked up at the National Theatre, Power FM, NBS TV or the Galaxy FM offices.

The deadline for submitting the forms is 3 May, after which the audition dates will be announced.

For more information about the Penda Uganda song contest, email pendauganda@gmail.com.