Yesse Oman Rafiki
When you talk about powerful songwriting in Uganda’s music industry, Yesse Oman Rafiki is a name that echoes through hit after hit. A celebrated songwriter with an impressive résumé, Oman Rafiki is the creative force behind some of Uganda’s most iconic tracks, including Vinka’s “Chips Na Ketchup”, Bebe Cool’s “Mbozi Za Malwa”, “Kabulengane,” and “Teka Sente Wolaba.” His lyrical fingerprint can also be found on several songs from Irene Ntale’s Sukali EP, further cementing his place as one of the country’s most versatile and respected music creators.
But beyond the catchy hooks and danceable beats, Yesse’s philosophy on writing reveals the soul of a true artist. For him, the foundation of good storytelling—whether in song or prose—is joy.
“The most important element of being a writer is to ensure that you are happy,” he shared in a recent interview. “You are your story’s first audience. If you’re not enjoying your work, that energy—or lack of it—will show.”
For Yesse, writing is not merely a career or a means to fame—it’s a personal journey. The emotional satisfaction he draws from his work matters more to him than charts or applause. He believes that if your writing brings you joy, then it already has immense value, regardless of whether it reaches the public.
“Even if it never goes anywhere and it never gets published, your works still have value because they made you happy, and they were a pleasant way for you to spend your time,” he says with quiet conviction.
He also offers an important reminder to fellow creatives: not every audience is your audience. Art is subjective, and every listener or reader comes with their own preferences.
“In a lot of cases, it just means that the reader—or listener—was not part of your work’s audience. And that’s okay.”
In an industry often obsessed with viral hits and numbers, Yesse Oman Rafiki stands out as a voice of depth, mindfulness, and authenticity—a reminder that true art begins with self-fulfillment, and from there, finds its way to those who are meant to receive it.
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