Abtex and Promoters Slap Ban on Eddy Kenzo Over Shs33B Creative Fund Dispute

Music promoters led by Abtex ban Eddy Kenzo, accusing him of blocking access to Uganda’s Shs33B creative fund. 

Uganda’s entertainment industry is reeling from a bombshell announcement as a coalition of music promoters, spearheaded by outspoken organizer Abtex, has imposed a dramatic ban on Grammy-nominated artist Eddy Kenzo. The group accuses Kenzo, the Presidential Adviser on Creatives, of sabotaging their access to a Shs33 billion government fund earmarked for the creative sector, igniting a fierce showdown.

At a fiery press briefing, Abtex and his fellow promoters unleashed their frustration, slamming Kenzo for allegedly “disrespecting” and “undermining” their critical role in the industry. They claim Kenzo advised President Museveni to exclude promoters from the fund’s distribution, prioritizing musicians instead. “Eddy Kenzo has shown he doesn’t need us,” Abtex declared. “He’s blocking our access to the President, ignoring the challenges we face as promoters. From today, he’s banned from performing on any stage we organize.”

The promoters’ wrath extends further, targeting artists linked to the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF), led by Kenzo. “We’re fed up with the disrespect,” Abtex fumed. “The government focuses only on musicians, but what about promoters? How much of the Shs33 billion is coming our way?” The group argues that their contributions—organizing events, securing venues, and amplifying artists—are being unfairly overlooked.

Social media is ablaze with reactions, with fans and industry insiders divided over the ban and its implications. Kenzo has yet to respond publicly, leaving many to wonder if this feud will escalate or find resolution. As Uganda’s creative industry grapples with this funding fallout, one question looms: Will the ban derail Kenzo’s influence, or can bridges be rebuilt? The stage is set for a high-stakes clash.