Music sensation Jackie Chandiru has opened up about her experience singing in her local language, Lugbara, admitting that it didn't go as planned despite her efforts to promote it.

Appearing on Bukedde TV's Ekyenkya with Musa Ssemwanga, the former Blu*3 member revealed that she aimed to challenge stereotypes surrounding the Lugbara people, who she felt had been unfairly marginalised over the years.

To accomplish this, she incorporated Lugbara language into many of her songs, hoping to showcase the importance of her culture. However, Chandiru's Lugbara songs such as Agassi and Mi Eyosi did not gain traction in Kampala, with many people failing to understand the language.

"There's a perception that we, as Lugbara people, have nothing valuable to offer. Being called a Lugbara almost feels like an insult here. When I embarked on my solo career, I wanted to sing in Lugbara to elevate local languages, especially my own. I wanted to show that we have something worthwhile to offer," she explained.

"People associate us only with negative stories like the Joseph Kony narrative and wars. But I wanted them to see us in a different light, though my efforts were not well-received in Kampala, so I abandoned the idea," she added.

Despite this setback, Chandiru noted that singing in her local language resonated with audiences who understood it, making her a star in her hometown.

She emphasised the importance of singing in local languages, as it can garner support and propel one's career, particularly in rural areas.

In Uganda, several artistes have embraced their local languages despite gaining national recognition. Singers like T-Paul, Ray G, Omega256, and Joe Kahiri have stayed true to their roots.

Conversely, there's a perception that singing in Luganda, considered a national language second only to English, can lead to success.

Artistes like Lady Mariam, Juliana Kanyomozi, Toniks, Daddy Andre, and Wonder JR have shifted from their native languages to Luganda in pursuit of broader appeal.