Kenzo and his collaborator, Iranian-American producer Mehran Matin, were nominated in the Best African Music Performance category for their inspirational track “Hope & Love.” The nomination places the Ugandan superstar in one of the Grammy Awards’ most competitive and prestigious categories, alongside continental heavyweights Burna Boy, Davido, Ayra Starr, Wizkid, and Tyla.

The Nominees in the Category

“Love” – Burna Boy

“With You” – Davido & Omah Lay

“Hope & Love” – Eddy Kenzo & Mehran Matin

“Gimme Dat” – Ayra Starr & Wizkid

“PUSH 2 START” – Tyla

Celebrating a Global Milestone

Following the announcement, Kenzo took to social media to share his gratitude and excitement, describing the recognition as a major victory not just for him but for Uganda’s entire music industry. “A special thanks to the Grammy voting members  it’s another nomination and a milestone in our music history as Uganda,” he wrote.

Kenzo extended his appreciation to his collaborator Mehran Matin, calling him “a star” and praising the creative partnership that birthed “Hope & Love.” The song blends traditional African rhythms with soulful global sounds, carrying a message of resilience, unity, and optimism  themes that have defined much of Kenzo’s artistry.

Joining in the celebration, Kenzo’s wife, Phiona Nyamutoro, who also serves as Uganda’s Minister of State for Energy, shared her pride and joy on social media. “Cheers to our second Grammy nomination, my love @eddykenzoficial. To God be the glory as always,” she posted.

Their joint celebration reflected not only a personal triumph but also a moment of national pride, as Ugandans at home and abroad flooded social media with congratulatory messages.

Kenzo’s Journey: From Ghetto to Global Glory

Eddy Kenzo’s story remains one of resilience and transformation. Rising from humble beginnings in Masaka to international fame, his career has been a blend of raw talent, cultural authenticity, and relentless determination.

He first captured global attention with his viral hit “Sitya Loss” in 2014, a song that showcased the vibrancy of Ugandan dance and culture to the world. The track opened doors to international stages and earned him multiple accolades.

In 2015, Kenzo became the first Ugandan artist to win a BET Award, taking home the Best New International Artist title  a defining moment that cemented his place among Africa’s elite performers.

Over the years, he has collected numerous awards across the continent, including honors from the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), HiPipo Music Awards, and others, while also using his platform to nurture emerging Ugandan talent through his label, Big Talent Entertainment.

Hope, Love, and the Road to the Grammys

The nominated track “Hope & Love” reflects Kenzo’s signature fusion of Afrobeat, soul, and inspirational storytelling. It emphasizes perseverance and faith amid hardship  a theme that resonates deeply with his personal journey and Uganda’s evolving music scene.

Critics have described the song as “emotionally charged and sonically uplifting,” bridging traditional African sounds with global appeal. The project also marks a growing trend of cross-cultural collaborations that have propelled African music to unprecedented international recognition.

Eyes on Los Angeles

The 68th Annual Grammy Awards are scheduled for February 8, 2026, in Los Angeles, California, where Kenzo and Matin will compete for the coveted trophy. A victory would not only mark a new chapter in Kenzo’s illustrious career but also serve as a significant moment for Uganda’s music industry  signaling its growing influence in global entertainment.

Regardless of the outcome, Kenzo’s nomination stands as a symbol of how far Ugandan music has come  from local airwaves to international award stages. For many fans, the recognition alone is proof that perseverance, creativity, and cultural authenticity can carry African artists to the world’s biggest platforms.

In his own words, Kenzo summed up the journey best: “From the streets of Masaka to the Grammy stage  this is proof that dreams do come true.”