Dignity Dialogue Series: Arts & Social Change

The U.S Mission in Uganda hosted it’s 4th Dignity Dialogue Series on 15th November 2022 under the theme of The Arts and Social Change. Culture and performing arts have been influential in the politics and daily life of both Ukraine and Uganda and it’s upon that basis. The discussion was moderated by Solomon Serwanjja, a seasoned journalist and Executive Director of African Institute for Investigative Journalism and guest speakers: Yevhen Hlibovytsky lecturer at Ukrainian Catholic University and Kwezi Tabaro, Deputy Director Leo Africa Institute.

Given that the war in Ukraine is still ongoing, Solomon Serwanjja kicked off te discussion by asking  Yevhen Hlibovytsky to share his thoughts on what can be done to end the war in Ukraine. Yevhen Hlibovytsky bespoke of how Russia is the aggressor and architect of this war and thereby they are best suited to put an end to the senseless war.

Yevhen Hlibovytsky shares his thoughts on what can be done to end the war in Ukraine.

Uganda’s rich history of music, arts and culture has contributed to the political landscape and everyday life. National Unity Platform President, Robert Kyagulanyi Sentamu is a livid example of how artists and music have contributed to Uganda’s democracy. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Uganda’s President has previously released Mpenkoni, a rap song in the run up to the 2011 general election and won him favor among many youth in the country. Kwezi Tabaro provided perspective on the influence of arts in Uganda’s democracy.

Kwezi Tabaro speaks on the influence of arts and culture in Uganda’s politics and way of life.

Yevhen Hlibovytsky spoke fondly of the role of music and arts in Ukraine’s politics and way of life. The current Ukraine president, Volodymyr Oleksandrovych Zelenskyy is a former comedian and actor who rose to popularity with impeccable acting skills. ‘Art and Culture has always been pivotal in the way of life of Ukrainians. For many years music has been a tool for social change and portraying aspects of Ukrainian society’.

Yevhen Hlibovytsky speaks on the influence of arts, culture on Ukraine politics.

Cartoons have been used in Uganda over the years as a creative way of communicating societal issues. Renown cartoonists like Dr Jimmy Ssentongo, Alex Kwizera and Chris Ongon have always creatively used cartoons to portray what’s happening in Uganda and the issues affecting the people. Kwezi Tabaro spoke on the role cartoonists have played in Uganda’s politics.

Sample of cartoons by Jimmy Spire and Chris Ongon.

Kwezi Tabaro speaks on the role cartoonists have played in Uganda’s politics and history.

Yevhen Hlibovytsky speaks on the role of music and how Ukrainians have used it to express their views about the war.

Yevhen Hlibovytsky answers a question from Alex Makanga, the President of the Ukraine Solidarity Committee, Uganda on how culture and religion have influenced Ukrainians way of life.