In a resounding celebration of cross-cultural collaboration, the #OurPeople Series for this month brings to light a remarkable week where the vibrant rhythms of Swedish hip-hop met the soulful melodies of jazz in the heart of Uganda, Kampala City. Renowned Swedish hip-hop artist Timbuktu real name Jason Timbuktu Diakité, the MASAKA Trio, artist Esther Kirabo, and Navio joined hands with officials from the Swedish Cultural Organization SELAM for an unforgettable two-day visit.
The atmosphere was charged with creativity and purpose as the artists, the Ambassador of Sweden to Uganda, Makerere University Vice Chancellor, UNFPA Uganda, UN Women representatives, and Makerere University staff and students came together to sign the Orange Pledge. This powerful commitment stands as a collective vow to combat Gender-based Violence, aligning with the ongoing #16DaysOfActivismAgainstGenderBasedViolence campaign.
The focus of this year’s collaboration extended beyond the usual annual partnership against gender-based violence. The Embassy of Sweden strategically directed its attention towards Makerere University, firmly believing that transforming societal norms regarding violence against women within universities would catalyze positive change on a broader scale.
Ambassador Maria Håkansson actively participated in a roundtable discussion organized by Selam in collaboration with Pearlwood. During the discussion, she underscored Uganda’s economic growth potential and the pivotal role the cultural sector plays in the country’s overall development and that of the continent. The highlight of the discussion was the introduction of the Connect for Culture Africa (CfCA) initiative, a groundbreaking joint venture between Selam and the African Union (AU). The initiative aims to provide a platform for policy dialogue addressing the challenges and opportunities associated with securing public funding for the culture sector in Uganda.
The crescendo of the two-day cultural exchange reached its peak with an exclusive concert held at MoTIV Uganda. Timbuktu, Esther Kirabo, and the MASAKA Trio blended their musical prowess in a fusion of hip-hop and jazz that left the audience captivated. The clock struck 8 pm, and Timbuktu took center stage, delivering an electrifying performance that lasted well over an hour. The concert was a family affair for MASAKA Trio, who invited their loved ones to witness their inaugural performance in Uganda.
As the final notes reverberated through the venue, the audience erupted in thunderous applause. The exclusive concert served as a fitting finale to a truly remarkable visit, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of the Ugandan audience. The collaborative efforts of Swedish artists, diplomats, and local leaders not only enriched the cultural fabric of Uganda but also fortified a shared commitment to fostering positive change and addressing critical issues, such as Gender-based Violence, through the universal language of music and art.
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