South Sudanese artists get new concert series in Uganda

The inaugural event will take place at Lit Lounge in Kampala and feature performances by MT7, Mizaya Emmy, Tvavy De Tablet, Irene Toss, Jimmy Arabu, Lil Virus, Flick Abrayans and Nicky Jay. Ugandan musicians who will perform are Apass and Vinka.

Willy Entertainment communications and event officer Joyce Bakwa told Music In Africa that the new initiative would seek to provide South Sudanese artists based in Uganda with an opportunity to network and show off their talent.

“As a musician, when you are in a foreign country, there is not much freedom for one to perform wherever and whenever they want,” she said. “With Southern Connect Night these musicians, including the upcoming ones, have a guaranteed opportunity to showcase.

“We will be working closely with Ugandan artists as well so they can provide mentorship to our musicians. As Africa’s youngest nation our artists have much catching up to do and we hope we can grow our industry this way.”

The platform will also encourage more South Sudanese female musicians to participate in the music industry.

“Our industry is not balanced,” Bakwa said. “Various factors have influenced there being very few female artists, such as lack of support from family members and local promoters. However, we hope that by giving them a chance to perform regularly, they will gain the self-confidence and experience needed to stay afloat.”

Willy Entertainment plans to eventually extend the concert series to South Sudan.

“Presently we hold concerts but we would like a regular event to ensure that there is a consistent event for the local artists to showcase. However, for all this to happen, the industry players need to be united,” Bakwa said.