Uganda’s Youth Minister has urged a seven-year-old rapper to drop the mic, warning his fanbase and manager will face jail time if he doesn’t.
The threat against rising star Fresh Kid comes amid claims the youngster is skipping school and performing in clubs late at night.
In a television interview on Uganda’s NBS channel, Florence Nakiwala said those supporting Fresh Kid could face prison if they were found disobeying the law.
“Children who are below 18 years are not allowed to perform and enter in clubs, so I am going to do everything possible to stop kids from performing and entering in clubs,” Florence Nakiwala said.
I take this opportunity to warn all of you who are engaging children in things like this and renting them houses, you will also be arrested according to the law,”
Fresh Kid, real name Patrick Ssenyonjo, was discovered miming songs in a rural village. His manager Francis Kamoga told the BBC he moved the child to the city and paid his school fees.
Media outlets in Uganda have reported the boy has been spotted out in clubs performing late at night and doing media interviews during school hours.
The rapper’s latest song pokes fun at those who gossip about him not attending school.
“They underrate me because of my age – I hear what you are gossiping about, asking ‘will he study?’” he raps. Losers are weeping, calling out to their mothers. If you are afraid of me, get me cash. I’m the judge, I do not discriminate. Even if you are from the stone age, I will floor you.”
Kamoga claimed Fresh Kid only performs on Saturdays and Sundays. He’s had two shows, one music video and three shows since the start of 2019.
