The Independent Uganda: You get the Truth we Pay the Price
By Joan Akello
The gospel musician speaks to The Independent’s Joan Akello about not listening to God, love for high heels.
What is it we do not know about you?
I am cheeky, laugh a lot, and shy.
Why are you in music, not tourism?
Shortly after graduating with bachelors in tourism from Makerere University in 2001, I worked as an intern at Uganda Tourism Board and Parliament of Uganda. Thereafter, I decided to give the music industry a shot.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Possessing that one thing that brings you completeness. For me, music is all I need; it connects me to my God.
When and where were you happiest?
My first concert Mama 2011; I cried because of joy. I would wonder why people love me in their cars but would not want to come for my shows – I realised the problem was not the people but the advertisement.
Which of your songs has touched most lives?
Mama. In 2011, as I sang it, saw the corporates hug their mothers like little children, crying. Do not wait for your mother to die and then you buy flowers. She will have gone, never to come back.
What is your greatest fear?
Waking up and finding God has abandoned me.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
When I am extremely disappointed, I forgive but not forget.
What is it you deplore in others?
Hypocrisy and betrayal.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Good skin, makeup, long hair, heels. I would rather have the longest and ugliest heels than the most expensive sandals.
But won’t those heels hurt your back time to come?
Don’t you see the tall models like Naomi Campbell wearing heels? But I swim and have vitamins for my bones.
What is your current state of mind?
I am at peace because we have 100 percent win with my people in Buikwe.
Why are you confident about Buikwe?
I have been a political person, raised by a political family; I was a head girl in primary and `A’ level. I love people naturally and will serve the people of Buikwe.
Which virtue do you think is overrated?
Kindness. Sometimes people think you give to show off.
On what occasion do you lie?
When I’m late.
What do you dislike about your physical appearance?
I do not like my nose. It’s big.
Others have done something about such parts?
No – God knew I needed a big nose to sing.
Which living person do you despise?
If you have a dream and you do not give it a shot, then you will never know what you are capable of.
What qualities do you admire in a man?
Loving and hardworking. It is not that I want everything but I am a woman – man’s helper.
What qualities do you admire in a woman?
I admire the First Lady because she has taught me that however powerful you are, you can raise godly children.
Who is the greatest love of your life?
There is man, but the world will get to know at the right time. I am single but off the shelf.
I won’t ask about your previous
Even the previous knows. I am glad that since this year, my daughter meets him and is getting mummy and daddy’s love; a full package.
What talent do you most like to have?
Dancing and singing; I do not know how to dance.
What is the lowest depth of misery?
Waking up without a mother. When I was going through trauma, it was like my burden had shifted to my mother and other women who comforted me with their love. I pray to God to give every child a chance to live with a mother whether rich or poor.
Which books do you read?
Those by Miles Munroe,
Any historical person you identify with?
Martin Luther King Jr. He died without realizing his dream.
Who are your real heroes?
The president, it takes a heart to brave the bush and rescue an entire nation. I remember we would see bombs flying over our heads and mother would just grab us hide us in the bush.
What do you dislike?
People who have an odour that when they enter in a room, you must look for an exit. It hurts more when they are very smart.
What is your greatest regret?
The day I said I Do in December 2005 after getting many warnings from God. I encourage every single woman to listen to the voice of God however painful because the aftermath is more painful.
How would you not like to die?
In an accident, I always say Lord give me a minute to at least repent because we make mistakes.
What is you motto?
My God shall supply all my needs according to his riches in glory and he who begun a good work will bring it into completion.
What is your philosophy about life?
Never give up until the battle is over.
