Ugandan TikToker Anthony Katongole, popularly known as Chicken Chicken, has publicly apologized to Rwandan President Paul Kagame, the people of Rwanda, and Ugandans after making controversial remarks about the country following his recent trip to Kigali.
Katongole had traveled to Rwanda on a short, friend-sponsored visit. Upon his return, he appeared on several YouTube channels and social media platforms to discuss his experience. However, unlike the usual positive narratives often shared by tourists, bloggers, and journalists, who praise Kigali for its cleanliness, order, and fast growing infrastructure, Chicken Chicken painted a much different picture.
In his interviews, he claimed that Rwanda was not as portrayed in the media. “The Rwanda you see on TV and social media is different. People are poor, they have bad roads, and many sleep in slums. They only have one KFC outlet in the entire town, unlike Uganda where you can find it in almost every region,” he stated.
His remarks sparked a social media firestorm, with many Rwandan people and Ugandans criticizing him for misrepresenting and tarnishing the image of their country.
Facing growing backlash, Chicken Chicken appeared on the Gossip Live Show, hosted by Farooq Sarkozy visibly remorseful and on his knees, issuing a formal apology.
He extended his regret to President Kagame, the Rwandan ambassador to Uganda, Rwandans, Ugandans, and friends of Rwanda worldwide.
“I want to apologize to the ambassador of Rwanda in Uganda, H.E President Kagame Paul. I documented my visit in your country and people failed to focus on the good things I talked about the country. Instead, they ran with the negative comments. I’m asking for your forgiveness. To all the Rwandans in Uganda, please forgive me. And to all the people affiliated to the country and was hurt by my comments, I sincerely apologize for my mistake,” he pleaded.
