Whose Child?: African Traditional Music.

Honoring the Duo Behind 'Omwana Wani': Umar Mwange and Jackie Babirye's Musical Excellence

Umar Mwanje: "If I pack clothes in a suitcase, does it mean they belong to the suitcase? Or if I store clothes in a wardrobe, does it mean they belong to the wardrobe? If I pour water into a tank, does it mean it belongs to the tank? Similarly, if I have a child with you, does it mean the child belongs to you? You women are like suitcases where we keep our children. The moment you give birth, the child belongs to the man. When dropped on the ground, the first name the child pronounces is 'daddy'."

Jackie Babirye: "You men have a lot of nerve! Do you know the labor pain I felt when giving birth? You think the child belongs to the man? Have you ever carried a pregnancy for nine months? Have you ever experienced a man dying in labor? The child belongs to the woman! Pronouncing 'daddy' is just childish talk. When the child grows up and gets scared, they shout 'mummy.' Even you, so-called men, if I slap you, you'll end up shouting 'mummy'!"

Umar Mwanje: "I've heard you talk about the severe pain women feel when giving birth. The pain you feel for just one day! If only God had given it to us men. From the day you get pregnant, I start worrying about money for scans and baby clothes. Sometimes you ask for liver, and when I bring it, you change your mind and want fish instead. That's the ache we men get every day for nine months."

Jackie Babirye: "Truthfully, the child belongs to the woman. I have the authority to show the child their family. I can refuse the child's presence to you and claim you're not the father. Does the breast the child feeds from belong to you? At night, when the child cries, you shout at me to keep my child quiet. Sometimes you tell me to take my crying child outside, and when I throw the child at you and walk away, you hunt me down with the police. In most cases, you leave us with the children, and we become both mother and father. Even when I call you, you hang up without caring. So, who does the child belong to?"

APPRECIATION 

Umar Mwange and Jackie Babirye are renowned Ugandan musicians who steadfastly uphold the original essence of music. Through their soulful melodies and thought-provoking lyrics, they seek to educate, inspire, and entertain their audience. Their music serves as a powerful tool for storytelling, conveying messages of hope, love, and social consciousness.

With a deep-rooted passion for preserving traditional music, Umar and Jackie seamlessly blend Afro-fusion rhythms with contemporary styles. Their unique sound resonates with listeners of all ages, fostering a sense of community and cultural pride.

As influential artists, they use their platform to promote positive change, challenge social norms, and celebrate African heritage. Their legacy continues to shape Uganda's vibrant music scene, inspiring future generations to embrace their roots and find their voice.