We want investigations into artistes' Shs13bn Sacco money - Cindy

Songstress Cinderella Sanyu alias Cindy has called for an investigation into the distribution of Shs13 billion funds that government allocated to the creative industry.

This year, government disbursed Shs9bn out of 13bn to the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) led by Edrisa Musuuza alias Eddy Kenzo, to improve the welfare of artists in Uganda.

However, speaking to journalists recently, Cindy expressed frustration over the distribution of the funds, saying only established members of UNMF have benefited.

She said that while all musicians associations were to get the funds, Uganda Musicians' Association (UMA), to which she belongs is yet to receive.

"If the President gave funding to the music industry, all of us in the industry should benefit, including me. We in UMA have not received any money," Cindy said.

The Boom Party singer called for investigations into how the funds were shared and distributed.

"We need to know how many musicians there are in the industry and how the money should help. We need to know why the money ended up in Mutundwe. It means nothing. Anyone investigating, please help us, because we are still confused," she said.

The funds directed under the Microfinance Support Centre to UNMF has stirred uproar in the music industry.

Months ago, UMA's Phina Mugerwa also voiced her frustration over disparity in the allocation of the funds.

“So, a leader being a musician does not mean the money belongs only to the musicians. I have seen other artists getting engaged in that music industry,”

She added that UNMF ought to know that the value chain of musicians has around three or four different domains.

Swangz Avenue singer Azawi also complained about the funds, saying only established artists had benefited from them.

“It’s shocking that the already “established” artists are the ones that got the fattest amounts and are not obliged to pay back. However, those who struggle are the ones who are borrowing with no duty to pay back,” Azawi said on X months ago.

Recently, reports of misappropriation of the funds have been gaining momentum, with some suggesting that UNMF top members unfairly allocated themselves huge sums of money, leaving out many artists.

According to reports, UNMF president Kenzo and his deputy Sheeba Karungi each received Shs200m, while other top members such as Ykee Benda, Hanison Baliruno, David Lutalo each got Shs100 million.

Last month, Mawokota North MP, Hillary Kiyaga alias Dr. Hilderman, who pushed for the funds allocation, reminded the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) to get ready to account for the funds in question.

"I am not in the federation but just an artist. It's a responsibility for those that receive money to be use the funds for the intenteded purposes. As the Shadow Minister for Arts, it's my responsibility to demand accountability. If they misused the money, I'm waiting for them because accountability is very important," Hilderman said.