Betty Amongi, Uganda’s Minister of Labour, Gender, and Social Development, has issued a stern warning to musicians and performers across the nation, urging them to steer clear of vulgarity during Christmas shows. This advisory follows the Uganda Communications Commission’s (UCC) decision to ban certain music and comes in the wake of the controversial performance by Jamaican artist Dexta Daps at his recent show in Kampala.
Minister Amongi emphasized that the onus is not only on the artists but also on event organizers to ensure performances remain within the bounds of social morality. “We expect entertainers to perform responsibly this Christmas season to avoid sanctions,” she stated, highlighting that complaints have been filed against some artists, with regulatory action under discussion.
The minister’s comments come amidst growing concerns over the content of performances during festive seasons, which are traditionally times of family gatherings and public celebrations. The UCC’s ban on specific music content was a response to public outcry over lyrics and performances perceived as vulgar or obscene, aiming to protect cultural values and public decency.
In light of Dexta Daps’ show, which drew criticism for its explicit content, Amongi’s warning sends a clear message to the entertainment industry that performances will be closely monitored. She stressed the need for artists to respect the cultural and moral fabric of Ugandan society, especially during national celebrations like Christmas.
Event organizers are now on notice that they could face consequences if they fail to regulate performances according to these guidelines. This includes potential penalties or bans from hosting future events. Amongi’s stance is supported by posts on X where various users have expressed relief or concern over the government’s involvement in censoring performances.
The broader context includes a history of debates over freedom of expression versus cultural preservation in Uganda, with previous incidents where artists faced backlash for their content. This latest development signals a continued effort by the government to impose checks on what is deemed acceptable in public performances.
As the festive season approaches, the entertainment sector is now challenged to balance artistic expression with adherence to social norms, ensuring that the celebrations remain joyful, inclusive, and respectful to all Ugandans.