Ugandan singer Mark Bugembe, popularly known as Buchaman, has broken his silence, demanding the government reward him for projects he spearheaded in the country’s ghettos.
The musician claims his efforts to uplift ghetto youth have gone unappreciated, despite significant impact on employment and crime reduction in Kampala.
“The government should reward me because I am the one who started every project that is running in the ghetto. Those who were phone snatchers and thieves in the ghettos are now working as road sweepers in Kampala with 7 Hills,” Buchaman said.
From Ghetto to Employment
Buchaman explained how he helped many youth escape a life of crime by connecting them with employment opportunities under the 7 Hills project with KCCA, transforming former thieves into road cleaners.
“I helped a lot of ghetto youths get employed with KCCA under the 7 Hills project, ditching their old habits of theft,” he added.
‘Security by Knuckle’ and Political Fallout
The singer also expressed frustration over the disbanding of his ‘Security by Knuckle’ squad, a security team he formed to curb theft at events and shows. Buchaman believes his association with singer-turned-opposition leader Bobi Wine has contributed to his lack of recognition and support from the regime.
“I established Security by Knuckle, but it was ill-talked and disbanded. They hate me because of Bobi Wine. I will quit when the time comes, inform the president, and then go do my own business,” he said.
Vision Bearers Overlooked
Buchaman also lamented how the government has undermined vision bearers from the ghettos, citing his Ghetto Structure project as an example. He claims the initiative was handed over to top security officials, leaving him sidelined despite being the project’s originator.
“I’m lamenting under this regime because vision bearers like me don’t benefit from the government. You start a project just like how I started the Ghetto Structure, and it was handed over to Afande Damuliira. When I complained to Gen. Salim Saleh, I wasn’t listened to,” Buchaman revealed.
What’s Next for Buchaman?
While Buchaman’s comments reveal tensions with the government, he remains focused on his own projects and business. His story highlights the challenges visionaries from marginalized communities face in securing recognition and support for initiatives that directly impact social change.
Fans and observers are watching closely, with many sympathizing with Buchaman’s frustration and applauding his efforts to transform ghetto youth and fight crime.
“I started projects to uplift the ghettos. When the time comes, I’ll focus on my own business and leave the rest to them,” he concluded.
Stay tuned for more updates on Buchaman and his ongoing initiatives in Uganda’s ghettos! What do you think about his claims of being sidelined? Drop your thoughts below!
