On Monday, members of The Nile Project focused in on the country that houses the source of the longest river in the world. “The Nile in Uganda: Music and Cultural Sustainability in Uganda” was a musical presentation put on by three Ugandan musicians. James Isabirye, Nicholas Ssempijja and Micheal Bazibu contributed to a discussion on cultural and musical practices in Uganda with musical interludes that included a variety of Ugandan instruments.

Over the course of the past week, NC State students enjoyed the company of an extraordinary band from East Africa. The band’s name, The Nile Project, represents a massive undertaking to bring together all 11 countries that share the Nile River through something to which they can all relate: music.

Many topics pertinent to Uganda were discussed throughout the performance. The Ugandan musicians talked about how there were not concerts like there are here, but rather that the villagers all joined in on making music after a long day of work.

“It creates opportunities for people to discuss issues in a good way,” Isabirye said. “Even if someone is your enemy, when the music plays, the conflict is left outside. Music has the power to mobilize people and to resolve conflict.”

Isabirye is involved in several projects of his own that focus on safeguarding musical traditions in Uganda. He noted that since there was conflict between the central government and the kingdoms in Uganda, the kingdoms were ruled illegal and ceased to exist. As a result, the people who used to play in the palaces would no longer play or speak about it because it was criminal.

Some of what was lost along the way, Isabirye has revived. This includes gourd trumpet playing in Bigwala, where each trumpet player plays just one note. All five people, who make up a set, must be present for the song to be complete.

Similarly, The Nile Project focuses on including each country along the Nile River in a unified group that seeks to protect and preserve the precious Nile.

“Since The Nile Project has come to NC State, my excitement in learning about the history, politics and culture of the Nile countries has grown tremendously,” said Michaela Bate, a sophomore studying civil engineering. “I’ve been able to connect our issues with water to issues with water along the Nile.”

The Nile Project will be in Stafford Commons Tuesday for its closing concert from 5:30-7:30 p.m. All are welcome to attend the free outdoor festival.