Eddy Kenzo has weighed in on a recent letter from Gen Salim Saleh, addressing concerns about artists seeking financial assistance and support for their festive season shows.

Saleh, who oversees the Operation Wealth Creation (OWC) program, had called on Kenzo, as president of the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF), to streamline how artists present their requests.

In his letter, Gen Saleh urged artists to avoid making personal trips to Gulu, where he is based, as it disrupts his work under the OWC program. He proposed that artists channel their requests through Kenzo and the UNMF instead.

In his response, Kenzo defended his fellow artists, arguing against labeling them as beggars. He acknowledged that everyone faces challenges in life and that seeking help is not a sign of weakness.

There is no person without problems. What’s important is having ideas. Even though some people want handouts, there are those who present brilliant ideas to Gen Saleh. He himself has worked on ensuring that the proper structures function, and if artists come to me, they will get the help they need.

Kenzo also called on his peers to approach him for advice and work collaboratively to achieve their goals.