The Pakwonga Music Awards, held on Friday, July 19, 2024, turned into a normal commercial show, Artistes walked away with Certificates instead of accolades.

Attendees who had come to witness artists receiving awards found themselves enjoying performances from both young and established local artists across the greater Nebbi and part of DR Congo.

Patriots were left questioning the nature of the event without receiving any clear answers. Although, it appears that the artists were aware of the true purpose behind the event.

"They were invited to perform as a fundraising effort to purchase a vehicle for the Clan Chief of Ker Kwonga, Stanley Ombidi, in celebration of his first anniversary on the throne," revealed Rasta Longe, who was responsible for organizing the performances.

During the event at Alpha Courts Hall in Panyimur Town Council, Pakwach District, several artists expressed their concerns to the organizers on stage, urging them to create more meaningful events and properly honor award recipients.

Red Python, a prominent artist from Pakwach District, warned the organizers against using the name "PAM Awards" due to potential legal implications. "PAM Awards stands for Pearl of Africa Music Awards. Panyimur is not the Pearl of Africa. Find a more fitting name for such events," he stated during his performance of "Mipolo."

Similarly, Lucky Dee, the Trouble-based Commando, voiced his concerns about the confusion among supporters. Speaking to two gentlemen on stage, who were acting as ‘Judges,’ he remarked, "We are here to perform for our Chief. There are no awards. ‘Judges’ do your work, but there will be no ranking."

Most artists did not acknowledge the presence of the judges, except for Sweet Lala, who recognized them during her performance.

However, Bushy Da King explained to our reporter that the use of "PAM Awards" on promotional materials was an error by the graphic designer. "The name 'PAM Awards' was a mistake. This event is the Pakwonga Music Awards, not PAM Awards," he stated, while closing the show.

Rasta Longe confirmed that each artist received a certificate the following morning. Although, he noted most artists had already departed for their respective destinations by then before collecting their certificate.