ARTICLES
$40 Million Fund Launched by Next Narrative Africa & HEVA to Support African Content Creators.

Next Narrative Africa and HEVA Fund have jointly launched a $40 million initiative to support African content creators and those in the diaspora, with a focus on reshaping global narratives about the continent. The announcement, made at the United Nations General Assembly in New York City, outlines a comprehensive plan to empower African filmmakers and creative professionals.
The Next Narrative Africa Fund will distribute $30 million in equity financing and $10 million in grants over a four-year period, specifically to support audio-visual projects produced in Africa. This initiative aims to tackle long-standing barriers, such as limited access to financing and resources, which have hindered the growth of the African film and television industry.
Akunna Cook, CEO of Next Narrative Africa, and Wakiuru Njuguna, managing partner at HEVA Fund, are spearheading the effort to develop commercially successful content while fostering a new wave of African stories that challenge outdated stereotypes in global media.
The fund is supported by key partners including the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation and USAID Prosper Africa. In addition to financial backing, the initiative will establish a Venture Studio to incubate creative ideas, with guidance from a strategic advisory board made up of industry veterans and experts.
Initial projects supported by the fund will center on important themes such as gender equity, democracy, climate change, health, and economic development. To qualify, productions must have at least 60% of their production activities based in Africa and feature budgets ranging from $1-5 million.
The fund’s official launch event, titled “The Bridge,” will be held at the iconic Apollo Theater in New York City. The event will feature performances by leading Afrobeats artists Adekunle Gold and Patoranking, with notable attendees including Nigerian Minister for Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy Hannatu Musawa and Travis Adkins, president of the U.S. African Development Foundation.
With the number of subscription video-on-demand (VOD) users in Africa expected to grow from 3.9 million in 2020 to 13 million by 2025, the Next Narrative Africa Fund is strategically positioned to tap into the increasing global demand for African content.
Commenting on the fund’s mission, Cook stated: “We are long overdue for more diverse, authentic stories from Africa on the global stage. By empowering creators with the resources they need, especially women and young people, this initiative will not only enrich the content landscape but also contribute to Africa’s creative economy in a meaningful way.”
Njuguna added: “This fund represents a significant investment in Africa’s TV and film sector, and our aim is not just financial success. We’re looking to drive sustainable growth and job creation across the continent. From past experience, we’ve seen that every $10,000 invested in film production has generated five new job opportunities. We expect this initiative to create thousands of jobs, particularly for youth and women, as we roll out the first round of funding.”
As Africa’s creative industries continue to rise, this $40 million fund stands as a beacon of opportunity, promising to shape the continent’s media landscape while fueling economic growth and employment for generations to come.
ARTICLES
Kohen Jaycee’s ‘Gundeze’: A Soulful Anthem of Love.

Am I the only one imagining how a mix of Kohen’s “Gundeze” and King Saha’s “Gundeze” would sound in a DJ set? And I’m not saying that just because King Saha’s concert is kicking off as I type this. Maybe it’s just me.
From his critically acclaimed album, RWEBEMBERA: The Raising Echoes, Kohen Jaycee’s “Gundeze” is a vibrant celebration of love wrapped in his signature RnB and Afro-fusion style with a sprinkle of Amapiano’s log drum. The track’s heartfelt lyrics and infectious rhythm make it a soulful anthem for anyone who cherishes the beauty of love. The lyrics are simple yet profound, with Kohen professing unwavering devotion to his partner:“I love you, Gundeze / I feel you, Gundeze / I want you, Gundeze / I need you, Gundeze.”
The music video for Kohen Jaycee’s Gundeze perfectly complements the song’s soulful and romantic essence. Staying true to Kohen’s signature style, the visuals are minimalistic yet captivating, set against the serene backdrop of a lush forest. The video follows Kohen as he alternates between intimate moments with his significant other and heartfelt solo performances amidst nature. This simplicity allows the focus to remain on the song’s message of love and connection, making the video a beautiful extension of the track’s uplifting and heartfelt vibe.
The chorus, repeated like a mantra, draws listeners into a melodic trance, while the verses paint a picture of intimacy, trust, and connection. Kohen’s soothing voice and heartfelt delivery elevate the song into a timeless ode to love. Whether it’s the wish for stars to align or the plea for mutual vulnerability, Kohen’s “Gundeze” resonates with anyone who has experienced the magic of love. The simplicity of the video enhances the song’s essence, focusing entirely on the connection between two souls.
“Gundeze” is more than just a track; it’s a reminder to cherish the ones we hold dear, dance to the rhythm of love, and embrace the beauty of the present moment. Kohen Jaycee has once again proven why he’s a standout artist in Uganda’s music scene, leaving us eagerly anticipating his next move.
ARTICLES
On the Move by Denesi: A Powerful Anthem of Hustle and Ambition
ARTICLES
Reviving Nostalgia: Akeine and Henry Tigan’s “Out of Control” Remix.

In this exciting edition of The Tribe UG Press Play, we’re thrilled to present a vibrant collaboration that bridges the gap between nostalgia and innovation. Fast-rising artist Akeine teams up with legendary dancehall star Henry Tigan to breathe new life into Tigan’s 2013 hit song, “Out of Control,” delivering a captivating remix that’s sure to win over fans old and new.
Akeine brings a modern twist to this beloved classic, collaborating with talented producer Andy Muzic to craft a fresh sound that retains the essence of the original. The remix seamlessly blends nostalgia with contemporary vibes, creating a track that resonates with today’s audience while honoring its roots. Henry Tigan’s stellar performance adds depth and familiarity, as he revisits the fan-favorite verse that made the original a standout hit.
This remix isn’t just a song—it’s a celebration of timeless music reimagined for a new generation. The official music video takes the energy to another level, showcasing both artists in their element and bringing the remix to life with vibrant visuals and electrifying performances. Don’t miss this unforgettable collaboration that proves great music transcends time.
The Tribe UG Press Play is more than just a platform; it’s a solution to a long-standing challenge in Uganda’s urban music industry. Despite the abundance of incredible songs, the rap industry has often struggled to release music videos due to logistical and financial constraints. Recognizing this gap, our parent company, Skyline Media & Management Limited, launched The Tribe UG Press Play to empower artists and showcase their work visually.
Through this initiative, we produce high-quality visuals for some of our favorite Ugandan urban songs, helping artists connect with their audiences in new and exciting ways. By supporting the creation of music videos, The Tribe UG Press Play is not only amplifying the voices of talented artists but also enriching the local music scene.
Stay tuned for more groundbreaking collaborations and visual masterpieces as we continue to celebrate the best of Ugandan urban music. Follow The Tribe UG and Skyline Media for updates, and don’t forget to check out the “Out of Control” remix by Akeine and Henry Tigan!
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