The organizers of the West Nile Music Awards (WNMA) have unveiled a revenue-sharing model to be used during the voting process of the forthcoming awards ceremony, aimed at financially empowering artists, DJs, and MCs while promoting the region’s creative industry.

According to the organizers, each vote will cost 500 shillings, with artists receiving 200 shillings per vote cast. The organizers will also earn 200 shillings to facilitate the event, while the partnering telecommunications company will collect 100 shillings for providing the voting platform.

The Director of B.O.B Events 311, Collins Bob, said the initiative is designed to 'ensure financial inclusion and sustainability within the entertainment sector.' He added that, in addition to revenue generated through voting, 'winners will receive golden accolades accompanied by cash prizes.'

This inaugural edition, scheduled for 2026, will mark the first of what is expected to become an annual platform aimed at marketing West Nile music through healthy competition, professional media exposure, and strategic promotion.

The spokesperson of B.O.B Events 311, who identified himself only as Awongo, said the initiative will be rolled out across the three major divisions of West Nile to ensure inclusivity and regional representation.

"Greater Arua will cover Arua City, Arua District, Maracha, Terego, Yumbe, Kakuwa, and Upper Madi, with 70 percent of performers drawn from the sub-region." He said. 

Awongo adds that, "The Alur sub-region comprising Nebbi, Zombo, and Pakwach, will also feature 70 percent local representation, while the Madi sub-region, covering Moyo, Adjumani, and Obongi, will similarly showcase predominantly Madi artists."

According to the organizers, the launch schedule will begin in Greater Arua on May 16, 2026. The Alur sub-region launch will follow on September 6, 2026, and the Madi sub-region on September 12, 2026.

Nominations will run from September 14 to October 14, 2026. Public voting is scheduled from December 19 to December 30, 2026, culminating in the grand finale on January 1, 2027.

The awards are expected to boost visibility, enhance competitiveness, and strengthen financial sustainability for creatives across West Nile, positioning the region as an emerging hub for Uganda’s entertainment industry.

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