Elijah Kitaka
In the latest episode of Tusker Malt Conversessions, singer, songwriter, and content creator Elijah Kitaka offers an intimate and vulnerable look into his life. The fourth episode of the third season, which premiered on YouTube at 6 pm yesterday, delves into Kitaka’s complex journey from a difficult upbringing to becoming a prominent figure in Uganda’s music and digital spaces.
Kitaka speaks candidly about his struggles with faith and spirituality, revealing how he once sought guidance from the church but ultimately felt judged and alienated. “I remember trying to live like a proper church person, but the church people would gossip or judge. If you didn’t behave their way, they distanced themselves from you. So, I became the kind of person who just stayed away. I was spiritually lost. I was looking for peace, truth, and guidance,” he confessed.
His raw honesty doesn’t stop there. Kitaka opens up about growing up in poverty, being estranged from his family, and the emotional toll it took on him. He shares how music became his emotional anchor during these turbulent times. “Music became my parent. It fed me emotionally when nothing else could,” he reflected.
Despite these hardships, Kitaka emphasizes the importance of resilience, hard work, and constant learning. He credits figures like Kas Kasozi and Maurice Kirya for playing pivotal roles in his journey. He also discussed the value of surrounding oneself with a supportive network, which has helped him overcome many challenges.
A deeply personal part of the conversation centers around his love life and fatherhood. Kitaka acknowledges past mistakes and reflects on his journey toward maturity. “In the past, I was drawn to the attention music brought and the fun it promised. But I didn’t always do the right thing… I admit, I didn’t marry the mothers of my kids. That was wrong. I wasn’t mature enough back then, even though I thought I was wise,” he said. His honesty about youthful mistakes and the evolution of his character is a powerful reminder that personal growth is a continuous process.
The episode also touches on the unique challenges of being a creative in Uganda, where emotional and financial uncertainty are constant. Kitaka speaks about navigating life as a creative, often flowing through it rather than feeling fully in control—a sentiment that resonates with many in the creative industry.
Additionally, Kitaka delves into his sense of cultural identity and fashion, describing his style as a blend of both African and Western influences. He calls for more open-mindedness and understanding when it comes to how Ugandans, particularly those abroad, express themselves through fashion.
Kitaka also emphasizes the importance of emotional preparation within families and relationships, particularly when supporting creatives. He expresses a longing for divine guidance as he continues to navigate his personal and professional journey.
Since its debut in 2022, Tusker Malt Conversessions has become a leading platform for Ugandan talent, allowing artists to share their personal stories beyond the music. Mercy Atwongyeire, Project Manager at UBL, explains that the show’s authenticity is what makes it special. “Tusker Malt Conversessions was created to give artists a platform where they’re not just seen but deeply heard. Elijah’s episode reminds us that vulnerability is a form of strength, and that’s what makes this platform so powerful,” she said.
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