Joshua Baraka Shines at Trace Awards Despite Losing to Kenya’s Bien

Ugandan singing sensation Joshua Baraka got an opportunity to showcase his talent as he was one of the performers at the recently concluded Trace music awards that took place in Zanzibar from 24-26,February,2024

 

He was Uganda’s only representative at the awards as he was nominated in the category of Best East African artiste of the year

 

The category had other nominees like Ethiopia’s Rophnan, Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania),Zuchu (Tanzania),Harmonize(Tanzania), Nandy (Tanzania) and Marioo (Tanzania)

 

During the award Ceremony that was held on Wednesday26th, February, 2026, Kenyan representative Bien, a former Sauti Sol Band member was announced the winner of the category

 

Bien, who is a friend to Joshua Baraka was delighted to have the award and was also one of the performers at the event that attracted many African artistes and creatives from all over the world

 

Bien who was the fourth member of the band became a solo artiste at the end of 2023 after the band was dissolved when members preferred to pursue different careers

 

Despite his Loss, the award ceremony gave Baraka a platform to showcase his talent and also connect with the African Music professionals and executives who attended the event

 

Trace Awards is a music awards show established by Trace Group to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the French pay-TV music video television channel Trace TV with the aim of honoring outstanding achievements in African and Afro-inspired music and culture around the world

 

The first edition was held in Kigali, Rwanda, on Saturday 21 October 2023 at the BK Arena, Kigali.