Majid Michel

Suubi’s ‘Nalongo’ takes centre stage at Obulo Bwaffe festival/exhibition

“We are looking at the Obulo Bwaffe folklore through a contemporary feminist lens”, Kazungu said. “We are celebrating the power, knowledge and unwavering agency of women.” Sandra Suubi refused a microphone, and for long periods did not say anything. But her gown-like outfit made of woven mats and bark cloth became the centre of attention as the Obulo Bwaffe art festival was launched at the Alliance Française basement on Women’s Day. Suubi, also a musician, was a featured performer at the launch, along with a singer (Afrie) and two spoken-word artists (Zoe and Afroetry). But when her turn came around she adorned the almost 7-foot-tall outfit, stood on a chair, and dared the audience to make of it what they would. She called the whole ensemble (which included herself) Nalongo, which pointed to the mother of the twins in the folk song Twelire Obulo Bwaffe, from which the festival got its name.