The Swedish Embassy in Uganda has in partnership with Swedish cultural organization, Selam, welcomed a group of Swedish artists led by renowned rapper Jason Diakité aka Timbuktu, accompanied by the MASAKA trio jazz band and Esther Kirabo to Uganda for a two-day visit.
During the visit, they will participate in various activities aimed at fostering cultural exchange and artistic freedom in Uganda, climaxed by an exclusive concert that wis showcase a fusion of hip hop and jazz.
They will also collaborate with Ugandan rapper and record producer Navio and Selam’s national partner Pearlwood on different activities including a workshops and live performances while in Uganda.
Selam will also host a round-table discussion in collaboration with Pearlwood to present the new Connect for Culture Africa (CFCA) initiative to key Ugandan stakeholders and to create a platform for policy dialogue around the challenges and opportunities of securing public funding for the culture sector in Uganda.
According to Ambassador of Sweden to Uganda Maria Håkansson, culture is a driver of development, as the creative economy is one of the world’s most rapidly growing sectors.
“We all know that culture builds bridges and creates understanding and I hope that this week’s visit will contribute to a platform for dialogue and exchange between Swedish and Ugandan artists, civil society, media and policy makers on the potential of cultural and creative industries and the importance of artistic freedom,” Hakansson said on Monday afternoon.
“Culture is a driver of development as the creative economy is one of the world’s most rapidly growing sectors and at the same time culture empowers people and inspires change.”
“We are excited to continue our efforts in Uganda and present our new initiative CICA Connect For Culture Africa, where we are advocating for increased public funding for the culture sector,” Selam’s CEO and founder Teshome Wondimu said.
“We particularly look forward to meet a diverse group of culture actors to better understand the support needed to build a stronger and more unified culture sector in Uganda.”
Swedish musician, Jason Diakité also known as Timbuktu said he was happy to visit again.
“It is a kind of diasporic homecoming for us and a valuable opportunity to partake in culture and connect with the people of Kampala. Mother Africa, we are on our way from the cold north but we bring lots of love, vibes and music with us,” Timbuktu said.
