On Saturday, 12th October, Pretty Nicole featured in the newly released music video for “Kankutekemu” by popular Ugandan artist Michael Mukwaya, better known as Mikie Wine. The video, directed by Darlington, has drawn attention due to Pretty Nicole, a young girl recently in the social media spotlight for various reasons, including the controversial sharing of her intimate videos online, despite being around 16 years old.
Her portrayal as a video vixen in the music video has sparked criticism, with many condemning the decision. Critics argue that it is inappropriate for a 16-year-old to perform suggestive dance moves, especially with an artist like Mikie Wine.
The Impact of Pretty Nicole in Mikie Wine’s Video
Pretty Nicole has over 102,000 followers on her X account (formerly Twitter) and has gained media attention for several reasons. It’s believed that Mikie Wine selected her as a video vixen to capitalize on her current visibility and trend the video.
The strategy worked; within 23 hours of release, the video had garnered over 75,000 views. This is significant, as none of Mikie Wine’s solo videos this year have crossed 10,000 views, except for his collaboration with Levixone on “Olunaku lwe luno”, which has 147,000 views after 8 months. The “Kankutekemu” video is expected to surpass this, as it currently ranks #3 among trending videos.
What People Are Saying About the Video
Denis Duke Woniala, a renowned retired news anchor, commented:
“What Pretty Nicole is doing is low-key a dream for many ladies here. Most people criticizing her wouldn’t hesitate if given the same opportunity. Additionally, many of them employ minors in their homes as maids or shamba boys, denying them basic needs, yet they criticize Pretty Nicole. Like anyone else, she’s looking for survival. Her parents clearly can’t afford the lifestyle she desires, so she’s working hard, including appearing in a music video.”
He added, “Back then, education used to be the key to success, but today that key was stolen. There’s no guarantee that an educated person will do better in life. Nicole could be the next Sheilah Gashumba or Etania, or anyone else succeeding in the Ugandan showbiz industry. However, as a parent, I would advise her to find someone to manage her properly to ensure she isn’t exploited, especially regarding payments. If possible, she should complete her education, even just for formality.”
Other perspectives include:
Alton: “I wish the same energy you’re using to criticize Mikie Wine was directed at corrupt officials. I have no problem with him. Pretty Nicole has bills to pay, and there are far bigger issues in this country.”
Ogwok Maurice AKA Hesketh: “Pretty Nicole has a great body, better than her critics, and she has many years ahead to progress and support her family. Attacking her over this music video is backward and won’t stop her from getting more opportunities.”
Kaliisa Betinah, a Tourism Advocate: “Pretty Nicole was paid to appear in the video as part of her job. Mikie Wine knew it would trend, which was the goal. Don’t discourage people from giving her work. Mikie Wine has no problem employing her.”
Pretty Nicole herself: “I’ve realized there’s more politics in music than in parliament. I can’t believe people are criticizing me for political reasons when all I did was appear in a music video as a vixen. Am I the first person to be a vixen? Everyone is mad at me, saying, ‘Pretty Nicole, you’re too young for this.’ But for how long should I wait? My life, my rules.”
Allan Shaka, a Human Rights Activist: “The constitution allows children 16 years and older to engage in gainful employment, so Mikie Wine is within his rights to give Pretty Nicole an opportunity.”
He added, “Article 34 provides children with the right to parental care, basic education, and protection from exploitation. It prohibits child labor for those under 16 years old, emphasizing special protections for orphans and vulnerable children to safeguard their welfare and development.”
