Ugandan singer and Uganda Musicians Association (UMA) president Cindy Sanyu has revealed that the long-standing friction between UMA and the Uganda National Musicians Federation (UNMF) has finally been resolved. According to Cindy, both organizations recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that outlines how they will now work together to support the music industry in Uganda.
While speaking to the media, Cindy confirmed that the MOU was signed about two weeks ago and that both groups have agreed to cooperate going forward.
“In the very beginning, as UMA, we had the wave of UNMF, and there was so much friction between us,” Cindy said, acknowledging the past tensions between the two rival associations.
“But about two weeks ago, we sat down with them and we decided to design an MOU, a way to work together—and right now we are working together.”
For years, UMA and UNMF have often appeared at odds, with each organization claiming to represent the interests of Ugandan musicians. The result has been confusion, division, and a lack of unity in addressing key challenges faced by artists across the country. But this recent agreement marks a new chapter, as both parties aim to align their goals and speak with one voice.
Cindy was clear that while the two organizations may still have different ideas or approaches in some areas, they now share a larger goal of improving conditions for all musicians.
“We may not agree on everything,” she said. “But we’ve agreed to walk together on what truly matters—things like copyright, artist welfare, and professional development.”
The MOU is expected to streamline efforts in these crucial areas. For example, copyright protection remains a major concern in Uganda, with many artists struggling to benefit financially from their own work due to piracy and weak enforcement. By joining forces, UMA and UNMF can push more effectively for reforms and policy support.
“Musicians in Uganda have suffered for too long,” Cindy added. “We can’t afford to stay divided when we all want the same thing—to see our industry grow, to be respected, and to earn fairly from our talent.”
Artist welfare is also a key part of the new partnership. This includes better systems for supporting musicians in times of need, access to healthcare, mental health support, and long-term financial planning.
“Too many artists work for years and end up with nothing to show for it,” Cindy said. “That’s one of the reasons we felt it was time to come together and do something that benefits all of us—not just as individuals, but as an industry.”
Professional development is the third pillar of the MOU, focusing on training, mentorship, and helping new artists build sustainable careers. Cindy explained that young and upcoming musicians will now have better access to knowledge, resources, and opportunities through joint programs from both UMA and UNMF.
“This is not just about big names or famous artists,” she emphasized. “It’s about building a future where even a young girl singing in her village has a clear path to success.”
The announcement has been met with cautious optimism from the wider music community. Many artists have long called for unity between the two groups, believing that only a united voice can bring real change to the Ugandan music industry.
As of now, both UMA and UNMF are expected to begin implementing their joint programs and policies in the coming months. Cindy expressed hope that this collaboration will mark the beginning of a more united and professional music industry in Uganda.
“The most important thing is that we’re finally putting musicians first,” she said. “And that’s how it should be.”
