By Noa Glow | January 2012
How does a musician, producer, activist and social entrepreneur create positive change for youth in Africa? Through hip hop music! As a member of the Bataka Squad, Silas Balabyekkubo (aka Babaluku) introduced a form of positive hip hop called ‘Luga Flow’ to his native Uganda. Now in Vancouver, Babaluku believes that connecting African youth with music and the arts can transform lives.
“While most people seem to know Uganda for its HIV epidemic, the abduction of child soldiers and its brutal political past, I have always known Uganda for its youthful untapped energy,” he says.
Since 2005, Babaluku’s devoted himself to “creating an avenue for the voice of Ugandan youth to be heard,” —in part, through his music. Written in native tongues, his lyrics speak of AIDS, women’s empowerment and African unity, advocating truth for the future of his people.
“The continued absence of opportunity in these communities is unacceptable,” he explains. “This pushes me to explore all mediums of expression…to find ways to bridge the gap between Ugandan youth and those in positions to facilitate…change.”
Through his Bavubuka Foundation (bavubuka.org), Babaluku stages shows throughout the Lower Mainland to raise funds for projects that “call forth the spirit of the Ugandan people in creative arts, youth empowerment, education, community development” and other avenues. The fuel that feeds his fire: the young people he helps.
“I am inspired and motivated by the spirit of young Ugandans, who—through all situations—have persevered, never giving up on their dreams and continuing to use all creative measures to survive,” he says. “In all my time spent working with youth from all different tribes, races, colours and backgrounds, there is one consistent truth that echoes through their expressions: ‘We want our voice to be heard.’”
He adds: “We know that when youth in Uganda are provided with space, given full access to resources, empowered with education and encouraged to express their creativity, they have the zeal, will and power to build a greater community for a stronger Ugandan future.”
