The ongoing trend of young artistes (majorly youths from the ghetto) walking around with gangs which are usually referred to as Egaali has become a hot topic of discussion in Uganda.
Ever since the altercation between legendary musician Khalifah AgaNaga and ghetto youth Fik Gaza who always walks with his gang, there have been various reactions regarding how these particular gangs coordinate themselves in public, whether they are with the artiste they follow or not.
Recently, musician and ghetto advocate Bucha Man came out and stated that these gangs have always been existent since their time In the ghetto but the difference is that the levels of organization quite differ from gangs in the current era.
According to Bucha Man, back then, there were three major gangs and these were Firebase crew, Leone Island and Gagamel. He stated however that their gang activities were very scarce on social media and they never made news, something he has noticed with them today. For them, issues were settled privately, which was safer.
When asked for his opinion regarding the current wave of egaali, legendary musician Mesach Ssemakula stated that he will never be in favor of such gangs because he has seen them do more harm than good to young people to an extent that some even go on to loose their lives to gangs.
“I do not support egaali. We have seen these gangs even in America. Young people have even lost their lives because of gangs. We all recall 2Pac Shakur, Notorious B.I.G and the likes. They died so young all because of indiscipline from these gangs. I will not be in favor of them.” He stated
As for Dr. Hilderman, he states that he really has no issues with egaali as long as it is well organized and disciplined. He cited that it is sort of a moral boost for certain musicians and his is something that should not leave them
“I really have no issues with these young artistes and their gangs. The only thing I would emphasize is their discipline. As long as they are organized and disciplined, I see no issue with them.” He stated
When asked about his view on young artistes disrespecting the legendary artistes, he was quick to condemn his act, stating that whoever came first in the industry deserves respect and they should be seen as mentors for younger artistes
“I have no accountability for young artistes disrespecting legendary artistes but if it is in existence, I highly condemn it. Young artistes should respect legendary artistes and see them as mentors. They came into this industry first so they have witnessed many things.” He stated.
