Valentino R. Kabenge, Joshua Baraka and Anne Kansiime named standout talent by CNN

CNN’s Inside Africa has turned its spotlight on Uganda, celebrating three performers whose art reflects the country’s vibrant cultural spirit: Valentino R. Kabenge, Joshua Baraka, and Anne Kansiime.

The feature episode, Uganda’s Performing Arts Scene, framed Uganda as more than a nation of talent – it positioned it as a hub where music, dance, and comedy collide to inspire both local and global audiences.

“Across music, dance, and comedy, a new wave of Ugandan performers is captivating audiences, all while championing a vibrant creative culture at home,” CNN Inside Africa reveals.

We spotlight three standout talents: Afro-soul musician Joshua Baraka, international Latin dance maestro Valentino R. Kabenge, and comedy superstar Anne Kansiime, exploring how venues like the Uganda National Cultural Center are nurturing the next generation of Ugandan performers.

Uganda’s Cultural Ambassadors

• Joshua Baraka, the Afro-soul sensation, is reshaping Uganda’s musical landscape with melodies that travel effortlessly beyond borders. His rise mirrors a new confidence in Uganda’s sound.
• Valentino R. Kabenge, the international Latin dance maestro, is redefining how Uganda is seen on the dance stage. Through his Dance with Valentino and Uganda Dance Nights initiatives, he is opening doors for the next generation of performers while carrying the nation’s flag to international audiences.
• Anne Kansiime, Africa’s undisputed comedy queen, continues to prove that humour knows no borders. Her sharp wit and unapologetic style have made her one of Uganda’s most recognizable cultural exports.

Pride and Global Recognition

For Kabenge, who featured in the 9 cities, Oti Mabuse’s Viva Carnival UK Tour earlier this year, being part of CNN’s global feature is both a career milestone and a national triumph.

“I am thrilled to be featured in this special CNN documentary alongside Joshua Baraka and Anne Kansiime. To see Uganda’s artistry celebrated on such a platform proves that our stories, our creativity, and our talent belong on the global stage,” Valentino stated.

Beyond the Spotlight

The episode also drew attention to the Uganda National Cultural Center, a cornerstone of the country’s creative ecosystem, where emerging artists hone their craft.

By highlighting both icons and institutions, Inside Africa portrayed a thriving arts scene with momentum to shape the future of African performance.

With Baraka’s soulful melodies, Kabenge’s world-class choreographies, and Kansiime’s universal comedy, Uganda’s creative voice is not just rising – it is resounding on the world stage.