Uganda Natumayini, The Choir

Uganda Natumayini is a chorus made up of 27 boys and girls from poor neighbourhoods in Kampala.  The group performs an original mix of rhythms, dances and voices that reflect the richness of Ugandan culture. 

In 2005, we heard of an existing choir in an orphanage in Uganda that had great musical potential, an amazing level of determination and camaraderie, and yet living conditions that were harsh, inadequate and instable – just barely better than life on the street.  In September of that year, we brought Uganda Natumayini to Spain to both raise funds for their care and to provide them with an enriching, self-confidence building experience.  They performed in some of the best theatres in the country and were received with high praise and admiration – feelings they had never felt before in their lives. When they returned to Uganda on Christmas Eve, they were full of joy from seeing another world, full of hope after seeing that they could have a better future through music, and then promptly kicked out of their meagre orphanage.  We knew we had to keep the group together and created a new home for them with Música para Salvar Vidas.

The group has since travelled 8 more times to Spain. The tours have an incredible value for the children, both in terms of personal growth and in raising the funds needed for them to continue at the orphanage and in school. With each tour the kids learn an amazing amount about their own potential both as individuals and as musicians.  It is a great opportunity for them to work as a group towards a common goal and it gives the kids a purpose and a challenge to work towards throughout the whole year. Moreover, the children receive a lot of attention, care and interest from many people – precisely what they have lacked for so long.

Just as critically, the funding that they raise in the tours is essential to cover the costs of their care at the house and their schooling, therefore, giving them the hope of a brighter future in their country. 

The five oldest members of the group have formed their own vocal chorus called Aba Taano.  They have also toured extensively through Spain and other parts of Europe to raise funds and awareness.  These five are using Aba Taano as a way to earn their own money to support themselves once they start living on their own.