Jazz as a Catalyst for Economic Growth, dfcu Bank’s Vision for Uganda – by Helena Mayanja

In Uganda’s dynamic and evolving cultural landscape, the creative economy is emerging as a vital driver of sustainable development. From music and fashion to film, art, and gastronomy, Uganda’s creative industries are demonstrating the potential to stimulate economic activity, create employment, and boost economic growth.

dfcu Bank is proud to be at the forefront of this movement, championing initiatives that integrate culture, community, and commerce. A shining example is the inaugural dfcu Jazz in the Pearl Festival, which promises to be a vibrant celebration of Ugandan talent and creativity.

dfcu Jazz in the Pearl Festival, scheduled for May 10, 2025, at the Kampala Serena Hotel, will showcase the country’s rich musical heritage through performances by world-renowned saxophonists Isaiah Katumwa and Kirk Whalum, alongside Tshaka Mayanja and the Black Roots Academy of Soul.

But the festival represents much more than just a musical event; it symbolizes dfcu’s broader commitment to fueling Uganda’s creative economy and positioning Uganda as a cultural powerhouse in East Africa.

Unlocking the Potential of Cultural and Creative Industries (CCI)

The global rise of Cultural and Creative Industries (CCI) has proven that investing in creativity leads to tangible economic returns. Countries that nurture their artists, filmmakers, musicians, and designers have seen growth not only in tourism but in entrepreneurship, innovation, and exports. Uganda stands at the cusp of this transformation.

By supporting events like dfcu Jazz in the Pearl, dfcu is investing in an entire ecosystem by providing opportunities for local entrepreneurs, artisans, food vendors, transport operators, event organizers, and countless others connected to the creative economy. This holistic approach mirrors successful models seen globally where cities such as Nashville (“Music City”) and Cape Town have leveraged cultural events to drive broader economic development.

Building a Sustainable Creative Economy

While music festivals undeniably stimulate tourism which is a key pillar of Uganda’s economy, their impact extends much further. Festivals create marketplaces for creative products and services, inspire innovation, attract investment, and foster skills development. Local musicians gain platforms to perform, collaborate, and expand their professional horizons. Artisans find audiences for their crafts. Young entrepreneurs discover new markets and business opportunities.

Championing Uganda’s Creative Future

dfcu Bank’s investment in the dfcu Jazz in the Pearl Festival is part of a broader vision: to transform lives, businesses, and communities by unlocking new avenues for economic growth. As seen with international festivals like the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland and the Cape Town International Jazz Festival in South Africa, such platforms can generate millions of dollars for local economies, support thousands of jobs, and put cities on the global cultural map.

In the same spirit, dfcu Bank believes that Uganda’s vibrant creative community—if nurtured and promoted—can become a significant engine of growth, innovation, and national pride. By weaving together culture, commerce, and community, dfcu is helping to lay the foundation for a thriving and sustainable creative economy for generations to come.

The author is the Head – Corporate Affairs & Sustainability at dfcu Bank