Multi-Grammy award winning American Afrobeat sensation Matthew David Benson, better known by his stage name Matt B, has donated all four of his Grammy Awards to the Uganda Museum, making Uganda the first African country to house such globally recognized music accolades.
The Afrobeat star who recently won four Grammy Awards for his chart-topping album ALKEBULAN II, collaborated extensively with Ugandan music producers, songwriters, and musicians, including notable artists such as Rulz, Zigi Nana to bring the project to life.
Matt B’s donation will be housed in a specially curated exhibition space at the Uganda Museum, which will feature his Grammy trophy, exclusive behind the scenes content from his collaborative work in Africa, and stories of Ugandan producers and creatives who have contributed to his journey.
Previously, Matt B received a Grammy nomination in 2022 for the song “Gimme Love,” a cross-continental collaboration with Ugandan star Eddy Kenzo.
On his arrival Matt B said, “Uganda has welcomed me with open arms, and I am so grateful. When other countries were not open to some of the things I was doing, Uganda was. To Uganda and to the Ugandan people, thank you so much for embracing me, thank you so much for allowing me to be creative and for supporting me.”
The album was celebrated for its innovative fusion of traditional African rhythms, orchestral arrangements, and spoken word.
While in Uganda, Matt is up for a Kampala city tour curated by the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) for the artist and his team.
According to UTB, the tour will showcase Uganda’s cultural and religious landmarks including Uganda Martyrs Museum, Kabaka’s Palace, Kasubi tombs, and local music production spaces that have become central to Uganda’s modern creative identity.
Speaking about Matt’s donation, Juliana Kagwa, CEO Uganda Tourism Board said she is “delighted with this development.”
“Matt B’s decision to donate his Grammy awards to Uganda marks a historic milestone for our creative and tourism sectors. This partnership showcases the growing influence of Uganda’s music industry on the global stage, and we are honoured to celebrate this unique cultural exchange,” Kagwa said.
She added that the initiative is expected to inspire young Ugandan musicians and creatives by reinforcing the message that global success can be achieved through collaboration, authenticity, and cultural pride.
Commenting on the donation, Besigye Jackline Ag. Commissioner Museums and Monuments, Ministry of Tourism Wildlife and Antiquities said, “We are deeply honored by the generous gesture of award-winning artist Matt B, donation of all four of his Grammy Awards to Uganda Museum and it marks a monumental moment in our cultural history. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Matt B for choosing Uganda as the home for these global accolades.”
Matt B’s visit, UTB says, aligns with the board’s ongoing efforts to diversify Uganda’s tourism offerings by spotlighting music, arts, and creative culture as key components of the national experience alongside wildlife, adventure, and heritage.
