By Mike Rwothomio

The leadership of the West Nile Musicians Association (WNMA) has strongly denied allegations of financial mismanagement and corruption that have been circulating on social media.

The WNMA, a subsidiary of the Uganda National Musicians Association (UNMA), faced intense online criticism after regional bloggers accused the association of failing to account for UGX 110 million disbursed by the parent body to support artists in the region. 

The reports further alleged that a recent audit revealed the misuse of funds by some leaders for personal gain.

However, it remains unclear who conducted the audit and when it was carried out.

On July 24, WNMA Chairperson Jawotho James, popularly known as Jay Jagz, dismissed the accusations as “completely baseless.”

He acknowledged that the Music Association is "full of rumors" and urged bloggers and other members of the public to seek accurate information from credible sources instead of relying on false allegations.

“Out of the UGX 110 million received in April 2026, UGX 43 million has already been distributed to 26 individual beneficiaries,” he said, adding, “All financial records are clear, fully transparent, and properly accounted for.”

Jawotho, who also serves as Vice Chairperson of the Greater Alur Musicians Association (GAMA), announced that he will step down from that position to focus fully on his role as Chairperson of the West Nile Musicians Association.

Association leaders confirmed plans to register more artists for funding as they await additional disbursements from the government.

Artists in Uganda’s West Nile region continue to face significant challenges, including chronic underfunding, fragmented networks, weak personal and professional branding, and limited access to national markets. 

These obstacles continue to hinder both their artistic growth and financial sustainability.

Jawotho urged artists in the region to unite and take advantage of government revolving funds.

The West Nile Musicians Association serves as an umbrella body representing several regional artist groups, including the Greater Alur Musicians Association, Greater Lugbara, and Greater Madi.

A section of West Nile Artists after a recent meeting. Photo. Jawotho James aka Jay Jagz

Mike Rwothomio is news editor at Zoomer Africa your number one grassroot information hub for African news trends and updates