KAMPALA, Uganda — The Ministry of ICT and National Guidance has launched Sauti Ya Uganda, a nationwide singing competition aimed at promoting patriotism and national unity ahead of Uganda’s co hosting of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
The competition offers a grand prize of Shs100 million for the overall winner, while regional champions will each receive Shs20 million. It is open to individuals, choirs and bands from across the country, encouraging Ugandans to confidently perform the national anthem and the East African Anthem.
Launching the initiative on Friday on behalf of ICT and National Guidance Minister Rt. Hon. Justine Kasule Lumumba, Uganda Media Centre Executive Director Alan Kasujja said the idea was inspired by a conversation in which a colleague could only sing the opening line of the national anthem.
“Anybody who can sing can enter the competition. If you are great as a band or choir, you can also enter,” Kasujja said, adding that the initiative seeks to reconnect Ugandans with their national identity and heritage.
The launch at the Uganda Media Centre was marked by a performance from the Makerere University Choir, setting the tone for what organizers hope will become a unifying national campaign.
Held under the theme “One Nation, One Voice,” the competition will be conducted across all regions before culminating in a national finale.
Organizers also unveiled the #SautiYaUganda TikTok Challenge, which will run for seven days to encourage wider participation. Ugandans are invited to post videos of themselves singing the national anthems using the official hashtag. Daily winners will receive Shs1 million, while the overall TikTok winner will walk away with Shs5 million.
Veteran musician and journalist Halima Namakula was named the competition’s ambassador. She said the initiative would help Ugandans rediscover their love for the Pearl of Africa. Swangz Avenue co founder Benon Mugumbya also pledged to support standout participants with recording opportunities.
The competition is part of broader government efforts to foster national pride as Uganda prepares to co host the 2027 AFCON tournament. The AFCON organizing committee has contributed Shs100 million toward the initiative.
