It was part fan meet, part business networking, and part comedy show, when Uganda’s social media stars got face-to-face with President Yoweri Museveni, sparks (and jokes) flew.
The event, cleverly branded “Jazz/Chat with Jajja,” was held at Nakasero State Lodge and coordinated by Museveni’s daughter, Natasha. Among the glittering guest list were YouTubers, and bloggers.
As the day rolled on with laughs and playful banter, popular influencer Kasuku decided to test the waters… and perhaps Museveni’s generosity.
Kasuku is famously known for his annual ‘Luseke Nyamunyamu’ event, where he invites his fans, particularly wealthy ones, and uses his techniques to engage them t cash in on them.
With a cheeky grin, Kasuku reminded the President of a timeless family rule: grandparents give gifts to visiting grandchildren.
“Usually when someone visits their Jajja, they are given something to take back home, so I’m requesting that Your Excellency give us something to take back home,” he said, prompting uproarious laughter from fellow influencers.
Museveni, ever the seasoned politician, didn’t budge. “I wouldn’t mind that, but now I’m a presidential candidate, and that would look like bribery. We can wait until after the elections, and I’ll see about that,” he replied with his trademark humor.
Not giving up, Kasuku added a personal touch: “I’m renting and I don’t even have a car!” But again, the President stayed firm, promising to revisit the issue post-elections.
The influencer also raised a serious point: while Uganda’s youth are cashing in on platforms like YouTube, high internet costs remain a challenge.
Museveni assured the young creators that the government would consider measures to make running their platforms easier.
Despite the fun and games, the President delivered a dose of reality to the influencers.
He reminded the youth that while dancing, football, and entertainment are important, development should come first.
He encouraged young Ugandans to think bigger, stressing the value of the regional market and the East African Federation.
“Development must come before pleasure,” Museveni said. On his official X page, he added, “What motivates me is love for myself as a Muhoororo of the Cow Clan, as a Ugandan and as an African. I love our people and our future generations. History teaches us the world is not kind to the weak. That is why I have always worked to ensure Africans remain strong, independent and never return to slavery.”
The memorable meeting, especially for those meeting the President for the first time, concluded with a group photo.
