Museveni Urges Creatives to Build Legacies Beyond Talent at Mukulu's Burial

The burial of renowned playwright and director Alex Mukulu was marked by a powerful call to arms for Uganda’s creative sector: organize, professionalize, and build legacies that transcend individual talent. Speaking at the ceremony in Kijjabijo, Wakiso District, Minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, Lt Gen Henry Tumukunde, who represented President Yoweri Museveni, urged artists to view the creative economy as a serious business capable of significant national contribution.

President Museveni, in a message delivered by the Minister, lauded Mukulu’s discipline, creativity, and purpose, stating that the artist’s passing was a profound loss to the nation. He highlighted the crucial role of artists in preserving cultural heritage and national identity. The President also affirmed the government’s commitment to the creative sector, noting financial interventions like SACCOs that have disbursed billions to support artists.

Young creatives were specifically encouraged to draw inspiration from Mukulu’s life, focusing on discipline, integrity, faith, and service. The President stressed that true success lies in the positive impact made on others and the contribution to national development. This sentiment underscored the official military send-off accorded to Mukulu, a gesture signifying that artistic service holds national importance.

Industry figures like Moses Matovu of Afrigo Band and Eddy Kenzo, president of the Uganda National Musicians Federation, acknowledged Mukulu’s pioneering role in bringing structure and professionalism to the arts. They also welcomed the official recognition from the President as a milestone for the entire sector, validating years of advocacy for greater respect and structural support.

Mukulu’s legacy, therefore, extends beyond his artistic achievements. His funeral served as a solemn reminder for the creative industry to cultivate discipline, foster professionalism, and establish enduring institutions that will continue to enrich Uganda’s cultural landscape long after his final performance. The ceremony concluded with military honors, including a gun salute, reflecting the significant national value placed on Mukulu’s contributions.

This report is based on information from the Daily Monitor.