Christian and gospel music has been propelled in popularity by a number of notable figures who have used various platforms including Radio, Television and social media to reach the general public.
It is undeniable that the gospel music industry has experienced a significant digit increase in overall presence – and to some extent revenue. That aside, the Industry now has the Federation of gospel artists, which recently elected a president and agreed to register all Ugandan gospel artistes.
The federation vowed to tackle issues like making sure Christian events are done on a professional level, and discouraging free gospel events.
“We plan to also have the annual artistes’ convention in May to launch a SACCO for gospel artistes and gather gospel artists from all regions,” Sseku Martin, the federation’s deputy President said.
A number of individuals were unveiled in various media categories at this year’s VIGA awards nomination’s bash that took place on 3rd March at the National Theater grounds.
Timothy Mugenyi of Urban TV, Olivia Ziwa of NBS TV, Ivodrous of Dream TV, Carol Flower of NTV and Derrick Vucci of Salt Media were nominated under the category of most supporting T.V personality/station of the year.
Ivodrous Luyima, host of ‘The Groove’ comes in as new faces to this category whose nominees have seen the Christian music industry maturing and transforming. David Ogutu was last year (fifth edition) listed.
Coming to radio personalities, the nominees this time round included King Wesley (Spirit F.m), Alex Senono (MCF Radio), Ronnie Habassa (Power 104.1 F.m), Captain Steven (Family Radio), Lady Kin (Impact F.m Masaka), Selector Ivo (kingdom F.m) and Lady Bezo (Spirit F.m).
King Wesley and Ronnie Habasa were nominated last year along side Tony Smart of FMJ and Kamagu of Top Radio who scooped the award.
This year has see the VIGA team accommodate social media influencers by introducing the ‘Most supporting Social media platform of the year’ category.
GMP, Gospel modes, JC Label Ug, Ug gospel life and KaVibe Ug have been nominated.
“What has kept us going is that the VIGA Music Awards is to us a calling. Even when the environment has been tough, it is placed on our hearts that this is a mission God designed that we would fulfill. Our energies come from knowing that.” Prince Nick Nyombi, the Awards team leader says.
The main sponsor of this year’s edition is CocaCola, with others including Eminent Brands, U24 Television, Federation of Gospel Artists of Uganda, JC label, Family Radio, Kingdom Media, Shiloh TV.
By UG Christian News Correspondent.
