Nigerian Afrobeat artiste Uptown the Maskking has shed light on his recent ‘Garri Giveaway’ initiative, aimed at alleviating hunger among the vulnerable population.
Speaking on the motivation behind his charitable act, Uptown the Maskking expressed deep empathy for those struggling to afford basic necessities. “When I asked someone how much a cup of garri was and learned it was over N300, I felt really sad for many young people, single mothers, and the unemployed who are struggling to make ends meet,” he said. This realization, he explained, led him to distribute garri to those in need.
Highlighting the severity of hunger in Nigeria, Uptown the Maskking painted a bleak picture of the current situation. He noted that many people, including single mothers and the unemployed, often rely on affordable street food, which has become increasingly expensive. “The lowest you can get a plate of eba today is around N1500,” he noted, adding that this could be the only meal for some people in a day.
The artiste’s concern extends beyond the cost of food to the overall living conditions of many Nigerians. He recounted instances where people could no longer afford meat, resorting instead to collecting bones from butchers to add flavor to their soups. He also mentioned seeing women waiting to buy chicken intestines, heads, and legs, which now sell for N1000.
“The hunger in Nigeria has reached a perverse stage,” Uptown the Maskking stated. He warned that if urgent action is not taken, the widespread hunger and poverty could lead to an increase in mental health issues.
Calling on authorities to address the crisis, Uptown the Maskking also praised fellow artists Davido, Wizkid, and Burna Boy for their philanthropic efforts.
“Life is tough,” he concluded, emphasizing the urgency of the situation and the need for continued support and empathy for the less fortunate.
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