US bans Ugandan singer Maureen Nantume

Ugandan media reported that Nantume and comedian Mariachi were deported on 28 September, a few hours before their performance at Marriott Hotel in Boston at an event dubbed Africa Connect. The event had also billed singers Desire Luzinda and Eddy Kenzo.

The ban is reportedly due to immigration issues. “Now the trouble started when Nantume’s turn came up. When they asked her she said she had gone to perform,” a source told Nile Post.

“The authorities asked who she was going to perform with and she said she was with Kasozi (Mariachi). That was all, the police called back Mariachi, withdrew the entry rights and they were taken away to a room for interrogation."

It is understood that the organisers of the Africa Conect concert were unable to pay for the entertainers’ work permits and the two were asked to apply for visiting visas.

According to US immigration law, foreign artists and entertainers entering the country to perform must obtain a P-3 visa, which allows an individual to temporarily perform, teach or coach as artists or entertainers, individually or as part of a group, under a programme that is culturally unique.

 If unable to produce a P-3 visa to the US authorities, an individual risks a ban of between three to 10 years. 

Nantume joins a list of Ugandan artists who have been previously banned, including Ragga Dee, Rema Namakula and Fifi Da Queen.