The tension between music promoters and Eddy Kenzo’s camp has escalated dramatically following fresh allegations and a public ban announced by renowned events promoter, Abtex.
This conflict adds fuel to the ongoing friction surrounding the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) and how it’s being run.
During a fiery discussion on Bruno K’s popular TikTok program Ekiboozi, Abitex didn’t mince words.
He labeled Eddy Kenzo as “the most selfish artiste in the industry,” accusing him of prioritizing personal gain at the expense of promoters and fellow artistes.
“Eddy Kenzo is selfish. His costs are very high, and even when he brings people to shows, the promoter leaves with nothing because of his high demands,” Abitex lamented. “People see a successful event due to the numbers who come to see him perform, but the promoter leaves in pain and tears.”
According to Abtex, Kenzo’s performance fees are so exorbitant that even a sold-out show often results in losses for the organizers.
He further accused Kenzo and his manager, Martin Beata, of turning the Uganda National Musicians Federation into their business project, suggesting that the federation’s leadership lacks transparency and inclusivity.
The climax of Abitex’s rant came with a stern declaration: a ban on Eddy Kenzo and other artists affiliated with the UNMF from his events.
He vowed to continue rallying fellow promoters and stakeholders to fight for equitable access to the recently released 30 billion Ugandan shillings from the government, intended to support musicians.
The Uganda entertainment industry is no stranger to public feuds, but this latest confrontation signals a deeper crisis, one of trust, governance, and equitable resource distribution within the federation meant to serve all musicians.
As tensions mount, the industry watches closely, wondering whether the UNMF can survive this rift or if more stakeholders will join Abitex in challenging its leadership
