If you’ve ever wondered how many African countries boast patented musical instruments, the count is surprisingly low – perhaps not even reaching 10. Yet, Africa is home to a multitude of musical inventions that resonate worldwide.
Regrettably, some of these instruments have been patented by European countries, underscoring their perceived value over that acknowledged by the original inventors.
Uganda stands out as one of the fortunate nations with several patented instruments, the latest being the Janzi Instrument. Recognized by the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO) in Zimbabwe, it was granted a Utility Model Certificate in 2017 by Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB).
The History of Janzi
Upon closer inspection, the Janzi might be mistaken for an Adungu, known as ekidongo or ennenga by the Acholi and Alur people from Northern Uganda. Ssewa Ssewa, the inventor of the Janzi, shared that frustration birthed the idea after he was denied entry on a plane with his Adungu in 2014 at Copenhagen Airport. The nails in the Adungu were considered a security threat. Facing the challenge during a European tour, Ssewa Ssewa was compelled to devise a solution to continue making world-class music without future frustrations.
Unlike the Adungu, the Janzi features two different scales and boasts 22 strings, offering a broader range of sound options and frequencies.
Meet Ssewa Ssewa
Ssewakiryanga James Junior, widely known as Ssewa Ssewa, hails from a musical family. His father, Ssewakiryanga James Senior, was a renowned master drummer, and his mother, Betty Namata Ssewakiryanga, a dancer, instructor, and actress.
Ssewa Ssewa, a professional musician, multi-instrumentalist, and instructor, is the founder of the Janzi Band.
His music blends Ugandan traditions with Folk, World, Soul, Jazz, and other international genres.
Ssewa Ssewa, who has toured the world, plays an array of instruments, including the Janzi (which he designed), Endongo (Bow Lyre), Adungu (Ugandan Harp), Endigidi (Tube Fiddle), Akogo (Thumbpiano), Amadinda (Xylophones), and Engoma (Ugandan traditional drums).
The Future of the Janzi
Ssewa Ssewa envisions the Janzi as a catalyst for modernizing African instruments. Drawing inspiration from the modernized Kora in West Africa, he believes instruments like Enanga, Adungu, Akogo, Endongo, Engoma, Endere, etc., can meet international standards for export. Expressing confidence in the Janzi’s accessibility, he suggests that anyone adept at playing the Adungu, Piano, or similar instruments should find the Janzi easy to master.
Ssewa Ssewa plans to integrate the Janzi into local music curricula and collaborate with fellow musicians to enhance African music.
The Janzi Awards
In a bid to promote the Janzi and related percussion instruments, Ssewa Ssewa and his team are reviving the Janzi Awards. Last held in 2021, these awards aim to recognize creatives, outstanding individuals, and institutions contributing to the promotion of African Music. The 2024 Janzi Awards will encompass the entire East African region and acknowledge musicians globally who use the Janzi.