Movement Combined Artistes Association Launched to Champion NRM Ideals Through Music

In a bid to boost public awareness of government programs and popularise the achievements of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party, a group of artists aligned with the party has officially launched an umbrella association dubbed the Movement Combined Artistes Association (MCAA).

The association, led by popular singer Emma Nsereko, better known as Munamasaka, was commissioned on June 4 at the NRM Secretariat in Kampala.

The event was presided over by the NRM Secretary General, Richard Todwong, who applauded the artists for organising themselves to support the party’s vision through music and art.

“A message passed through music goes deeper, has a lot of meaning and can translate messages to the lowest person,” Todwong remarked, adding that music has historically played a key role in mobilisation and mass communication in Uganda

This is not the first time musicians in Uganda have taken a political stance. Over the years, several artists have played central roles in political mobilisation — with varying affiliations.

What makes the Movement Combined Artistes Association unique, however, is its structured and unified approach to using creative arts as a communication bridge between the government and the citizens.

Munamasaka emphasised the group’s commitment to “using talent for transformation,” citing music, drama, and other art forms as powerful tools to explain complex policies, highlight development projects, and foster a sense of patriotism, especially among the youth.

The NRM has previously collaborated with musicians in electoral and public awareness campaigns. Notable among them was the “Tubonga Nawe” campaign during the 2016 general elections, where a group of artists released a pro-NRM anthem that sparked both support and criticism.

While that campaign was mainly focused on the re-election of President Museveni, the new association aims for a broader mandate—educating the public about various government initiatives such as the Parish Development Model, Emyooga, and youth empowerment programs.

Political analysts say formalising such artistic efforts into an association may help streamline communication and create a sustainable platform for civic engagement.

“If managed properly, this association could bridge the gap between policy makers and grassroots communities, especially in rural areas where radio and music are the most accessible forms of information,” said political commentator Sarah Namugenyi.

Beyond promoting government policies, the Movement Combined Artistes Association also plans to nurture emerging talent, promote Ugandan culture, and engage in community outreach programs.

The artists hope their performances and public appearances will spark dialogues, inspire hope, and correct misinformation around government efforts.

As Uganda grapples with unemployment and youth disengagement, the initiative presents an opportunity to leverage creative industries for nation-building.

The NRM Secretariat pledged support for the association’s activities, including logistical help and partnership opportunities. The MCAA plans to begin a nationwide awareness tour later this year, performing in different districts and engaging local communities through music and drama.

Whether the Movement Combined Artistes Association will succeed in its mission remains to be seen, but its launch underscores the growing recognition of art and culture as central to Uganda’s political and social fabric.