The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has welcomed Jamaican dancehall star Spice to the Kingdom headquarters at Bulange, Mengo, in a move that has ignited debate across Uganda’s entertainment industry.
Spice, whose real name is Grace Hamilton, is in Uganda ahead of her scheduled performance at Lugogo Cricket Oval this Saturday, May 9, under the Safari Beats concert series.
Speaking after the meeting, Mayiga described the visit as a significant cultural and tourism opportunity for Uganda.
“I had the pleasure of hosting the Jamaican Queen of Dancehall, Spice, at the Kingdom Headquarters, Bulange,” Mayiga said. “Her presence in Uganda is a powerful reminder of how global cultural icons can elevate our visibility on the world stage.”
He urged Ugandans to attend the upcoming concert, adding that such international engagements go beyond entertainment.
“When influential figures like Spice choose Uganda, they do more than perform—they tell our story to the world, attract global attention, and open doors for tourism, culture, and investment,” Mayiga noted.
The Buganda Prime Minister also highlighted Spice’s collaboration with the Uganda Tourism Board and the Buganda Heritage and Tourism Board, including a cultural tour to the Kasubi Royal Tombs.
“Beyond the stage, her tour of key heritage sites like the Kasubi Royal Tombs is part of a meaningful effort to showcase Uganda’s beauty,” he added.
However, the warm reception has triggered criticism online, with some commentators pointing to Mayiga’s recent stance against explicit local music. Critics argue that the Kingdom has previously taken a hard line on vulgar content by Ugandan artists such as Gravity Omutujju and Lil Pazo, raising questions about consistency.
Others, however, have defended the Katikkiro, saying the visit reflects cultural diplomacy and should not be conflated with domestic content regulation. Supporters also note that Buganda has historically hosted global stars, including Alicia Keys, as part of efforts to promote Uganda internationally.
The debate underscores ongoing tensions within Uganda’s music industry over standards, censorship, and the balance between cultural preservation and global artistic exchange.
Spice’s performance on May 9 is expected to draw large crowds, with organisers positioning it as one of the major international music events on Kampala’s entertainment calendar.
