Akena referred to historical statements by President Museveni acknowledging the destruction of food supplies and the destitution of about 2.7 million people during that period. He argued that the loss of cattle deprived communities of daily nutrition, household income, school fees, draft power, and soil fertility, leaving effects that continue to be felt today.
Kampala’s waste management system has come under increasing strain in recent years, including during Uganda’s first National Cleaning Day, when the volume of collected waste overwhelmed collection teams and temporarily clogged the Buyala disposal facility.
Their appearance on football's biggest stage came after weeks of uncertainty. Ebola-related travel restrictions affecting travellers from Uganda had initially cast doubt over whether the troupe would be able to travel to the United States. However, the concerns were eventually resolved, allowing the children to make the journey and complete rehearsals in time for the show.