Ugandan music star Eddy Kenzo has expressed frustration over the treatment of local artists at a recent event in Ntungamo, accusing organizers of favoring Tanzanian singer Diamond Platnumz at the expense of Ugandan talent.
Kenzo revealed that he, along with Bebe Cool and Ray G, was scheduled to share the stage with Diamond Platnumz. However, the Tanzanian artist received what Kenzo described as “excessive preferential treatment.”
Diamond was reportedly flown into Uganda on a private jet and transported to the venue via helicopter, while local artists traveled by road.
Despite rehearsing together, Kenzo felt the organizers deliberately elevated Diamond’s presence to overshadow Ugandan performers.
“We were supposed to perform together, but the attention he received went too far. It wasn’t envy just disappointment. We’re also human, and they made it clear they didn’t value us equally,” Kenzo stated.
Speculation swirled that Diamond Platnumz was paid a staggering UGX 750 million for the appearance, while local artists were allegedly underpaid.
Kenzo criticized the disparity, saying it reflects a broader issue of neglect and undervaluation of Ugandan talent.
“If Diamond is worth that amount, then so am I otherwise, they wouldn’t have booked me. We deserved fair treatment,” he added.
Though Kenzo had previously vowed to avoid performing at events featuring foreign headliners due to concerns about disrespect, he agreed to participate in the Ntungamo show after friends involved in the organizing committee persuaded him.
Initially, Diamond was the only performer announced, but backlash on social media prompted organizers to include more local acts.
Veteran artist Jose Chameleone was also expected to attend but ultimately declined. Kenzo revealed that Chameleone had a heated dispute with the organizers during negotiations and chose to perform in Rwanda instead.
Kenzo’s remarks have reignited conversations around how Ugandan artists are treated at home compared to international performers, raising questions about equity and support within the local music industry.
