Long-time rivals Uganda Musicians Association (UMA) and the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to work together for the betterment of artists in the country.
UMA President Cindy Sanyu broke the news, confirming that the two groups—once at loggerheads—are now aligned in vision and committed to shared industry goals.
“In the very beginning, as UMA, we had the wave of UNMF and there was so much friction between us,” Cindy revealed. “But about two weeks ago, we sat down with them and we decided to design an MOU, a way to work together — and right now we are actually working together.”
The UNMF, which is spearheaded by singer Eddy Kenzo, was formed amid controversy, with critics accusing it of causing division in an already fractured industry. Meanwhile, UMA, one of the oldest artists’ bodies in Uganda, stood its ground—leading to public spats, conflicting agendas, and confused musicians caught in between.
Now, with both factions shaking hands, artists can finally breathe a sigh of relief.
Cindy clarified that the collaboration doesn’t mean the two bodies will merge or operate under the same roof. Rather, the agreement focuses on strategic collaboration—especially around copyright reform, artist welfare, and industry lobbying.
With UMA and UNMF now aligned, Uganda’s music industry might be stepping into its most united and impactful chapter yet.
