Category: Celebrity News

  • Bond 7 joins forces with Feffe Bussi for the highly anticipated Hip-Hop Ku Ntikko Concert

    Bond 7 joins forces with Feffe Bussi for the highly anticipated Hip-Hop Ku Ntikko Concert

    The countdown to one of Uganda’s most anticipated hip-hop concerts has officially entered another level as Bond 7 Whisky has been unveiled as an official partner for Hip-Hop Ku Ntikko – Feffe Bussi Live in Concert.  Set to take place on 16th May 2026 at Lugogo Cricket Oval, the concert is already generating massive excitement among music lovers, nightlife enthusiasts, and Uganda’s entertainment scene as Feffe Bussi prepares to celebrate 10 years of his musical journey with what is expected to be one of the biggest urban music experiences of the year.

    The partnership with Bond 7 adds even more energy and prestige to a concert that is quickly becoming the talk of Kampala’s entertainment and nightlife circles. Known for its bold, smooth, and vibrant identity, Bond 7 perfectly aligns with the fearless spirit, street influence, and cultural impact Fefe Busi has built throughout his career.

    Together, the collaboration promises fans an electrifying experience filled with high-energy performances, unforgettable moments, premium vibes, and nonstop celebration.Over the years, Fefe Busi has established himself as one of Uganda’s most recognizable hip-hop voices, consistently shaping urban culture through his music, authenticity, and style.

    Feffe Bussi

    Hip-Hop Ku Ntikko is expected to attract thousands of fans from across the country for a night dedicated to music, culture, lifestyle, and celebration.With anticipation already exploding across social media and entertainment spaces, the concert is rapidly positioning itself as one of the most talked-about events of the season — and the fear of missing out is already real.Fans can expect explosive stage production, surprise performances, crowd-favorite hits, celebrity appearances, premium party experiences, and an atmosphere designed to celebrate the evolution of Ugandan hip-hop culture in grand style.

    From the streets to the VIP sections, Hip-Hop Ku Ntikko is shaping up to be the place everyone will want to be on May 16th.Tickets are available via MTN MoMo by dialing *165*20#. Ordinary tickets go for UGX 20,000, VIP tickets are priced at UGX 50,000, while a table for 8 goes for UGX 3,000,000. Tickets are already moving quickly as excitement continues to build around the show.The concert is proudly sponsored by Bond 7 Whisky alongside BLACK, Pepsi, and Talent Africa Group.

  • Brenda Amutuhire shines in Loving Beyond as her star rises

    Brenda Amutuhire shines in Loving Beyond as her star rises

    Brenda Amutuhire is steadily carving out her place in Uganda’s growing film and television industry, balancing ambition, and a deep passion for storytelling. At just 21 years old, she is already juggling multiple identities as a student, actress, model and a beauty queen while navigating the demands of a competitive creative space.

    Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration at Uganda Christian University, Brenda’s days are often split between lectures and film sets. It is a balancing act she admits is far from easy. There are moments when school demands her full attention while production schedules also require her presence on set.

    Brenda Amutuhire

    “It is tough right now having to balance school and acting because there are times I have to be at school and yet at the same time I am also needed on set. However, with proper coordination and understanding from the production team, I have been able to manage both commitments,” she says.

    Brenda’s journey into acting began at a young age. She recalls stepping into the world of performance while still in Primary Three, working with a local drama group called Banyakitara Western Actors. What started as a childhood passion gradually evolved into a serious pursuit.

    However, like many actors in Uganda, Brenda’s path has not been without challenges. “I would work on projects for free without any form of recognition or reward despite my talent and contribution. Sometimes I felt like I couldn’t do it anymore but I persevered,” she says adding that acting gives her the freedom to express sides of herself that she cannot in real life.

    That persistence paid off when she landed a role in Pearl Magic Prime’s Loving Beyond. After spotting a casting call, Brenda took the initiative to audition, performing a monologue in front of casting directors. The process was long and demanding involving multiple callbacks, but ultimately, she secured the role of Prossy, a character that has since made her a recognizable face on screen.

    Prossy is a complex and evolving character. In the early episodes, she appears as a sweet, innocent, and loving young woman. However, as the story unfolds, she undergoes a dramatic transformation, revealing a darker, more manipulative side driven by envy and anger. Brenda admits that transitioning into this version of Prossy was one of her greatest challenges. It required her to tap into emotions and behaviors far removed from her real personality. With guidance from directors and consistent rehearsal, she gradually settled into the role, delivering a performance that has sparked strong reactions from viewers.

    “My character Prossy is a bad one and audiences have expressed how much they hate me in the series. But in real life, I am a very friendly, loving person and I like socializing with people. But I also share a few similarities with Prossy such as being outspoken and having a keen sense of fashion,” says Brenda.

    Interestingly, while audiences have come to strongly dislike Prossy, Brenda sees this as a sign of success. To her, it means the character feels real and believable. Despite her rising visibility, Brenda is still adjusting to the attention that comes with being on television. Being recognized in public is something she finds both exciting and overwhelming. She admits she often feels unsure of how to respond when fans approach her as she is still coming to terms with her growing fame.

    She says, “This is my first show on Pearl Magic Prime and it has not yet sunk in that I am on such a huge platform. People excitedly recognize me in public but I still don’t know how to act upon it.” Working alongside established actors has also been an important part of her learning experience.

    As a newcomer, she initially found it intimidating, but she developed a strategy to overcome this by building familiarity with her co-stars off-camera. This helps her feel more comfortable during scenes, allowing her to perform without fear or hesitation. She also shares light moments on set especially with fellow cast members who bring humor into the working environment like Aaliyah Nanfuka who acts as Namisango, her aunt.Beyond acting, Brenda has also made her mark in the world of pageantry.

    In 2024, she was crowned Miss Teen World Uganda under Miss Teen Africa, adding to her earlier title as Miss YMCA 2022/2023. For her, pageantry is not about just beauty, but also leadership, confidence and personal growth. She encourages aspiring actors to use social media platforms to showcase their talent and actively seek out casting opportunities. Her own breakthrough, she notes, came from simply responding to a casting call without any external connections where she stood out among hundreds of hopefuls. “I advise fellow young actors to stop the mentality that everything comes with connections. Personally, I have always pushed myself. I have gone on very many casting calls including for Damalie and Sanyu. I didn’t go through for some but I have never given up. So, it is all about consistency and putting yourself out there,” Brenda advises.

    Viewers can catch the show every Monday to Friday at 8:30 pm on Pearl Magic Prime. Get KaWeekie for as low as Ushs 11,500 on GOtv Plus (Channel 303) and Ushs 15,000 on DStv Access (Channel 148) to enjoy the telenovela.

  • UTB CEO Juliana Kagwa hails Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga for hosting Jamaican dancehall star Spice

    UTB CEO Juliana Kagwa hails Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga for hosting Jamaican dancehall star Spice

    The Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) CEO Ms Juliana Kagwa has appreciated the Katikkiro of Buganda Charles Peter Mayiga for hosting Jamaican dancehall superstar Spice at Bulange Mengo.

    “I thank the Katikkiro, Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga, for hosting our latest visitor and international dancehall sensation, Spice at Bulange. The Prime Minister beguiled us with stories of the 900 year-old Buganda Kingdom. What a rich and powerful heritage. Spice was also given a name from the rhinoceros clan. This is the way to welcome our visitors,” Juliana Kagwa said.

    Spice being welcomed at Bulange by Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga

    Juliana Kagwa called on the wider creative and events industry experienced in bringing international talent into Uganda to please follow the suit.

    Juliana Kagwa (R) UTB CEO

    “Tourism is everyone’s business. Your platforms can extend beyond entertainment; they are gateways into Uganda. Every artist who sojourns here should experience the essence of this land and leave as an ambassador of #ExploreUganda. Uganda Tourism Board is ready to partner when global talent experiences Uganda, the world discovers it. Let us showcase the best of Uganda, one event at a time,” she added.

  • HiPipo announces Worldwide release of “Voices Of Light – African Hymns Reimagined Vol. 1”- A New Global Gospel Movement Designed for Daily Inspiration

    HiPipo announces Worldwide release of “Voices Of Light – African Hymns Reimagined Vol. 1”- A New Global Gospel Movement Designed for Daily Inspiration

    Kampala: HiPipo has officially announced the global release of its highly anticipated gospel album, “Voices of Light – African Hymns Reimagined Vol. 1.” The project is a powerful and uplifting musical work designed to inspire millions of listeners daily while redefining how gospel music is experienced in a fast-evolving global digital landscape.

    Performed by Voices of Light, featuring Doreen Nanfuka, Enlightened Academy Choir, and HiPipo Voices, the album blends African choral richness with cinematic orchestration and modern inspirational production.

    The result is a deeply immersive listening experience that is both spiritually grounded and globally accessible. With a clear ambition to reach hundreds of billions of global streams, the album is positioned not simply as a release, but as a daily companion for reflection, worship, praise and emotional renewal across cultures, continents, and generations.In contrast to traditional long-form gospel albums, Voices of Light – African Hymns Reimagined Vol. 1 adopts a short-form, high-impact structure, with most songs ranging from 1 to 2 minutes.

    This intentional format aligns with modern listening habits, enabling seamless integration into daily routines, from morning devotion to evening reflection, while encouraging repeat listening and sustained engagement. Each piece is crafted to deliver a complete emotional and spiritual moment within a short duration, making the album particularly suited for streaming platforms, playlists, and digital sharing environments.Across the album, listeners are taken through a carefully sequenced emotional and spiritual journey.

    The opening moments introduce warmth and intimacy through songs like Matchless Love, before transitioning into triumphant expressions of faith in All Glory. Reflective compositions such as Evening Hymn and Holy Presence create space for calm and contemplation, while uplifting pieces like Rise in Praise, Rejoice! and Sing Praise to Him inject energy and celebration.Themes of gratitude, unity, and hope are consistently woven throughout the project, with standout moments such as Count Your Blessings, One Accord, and Hope Will Rise.

    The album builds to a powerful, climactic conclusion with All Hail Victory, leaving listeners with a lasting sense of spiritual elevation and completeness. Bonus tracks, including reimagined versions and Speak Life (Original Bonus Version), extend the listening experience while broadening the album’s crossover appeal. While deeply inspired by African musical traditions and choral expression, the album is intentionally designed for global resonance. Its use of English, universal spiritual themes, and cinematic production style allows it to connect meaningfully with diverse audiences across Africa, Europe, the Americas, and beyond.

    The project reflects a growing movement of African-led creative excellence shaping global cultural and spiritual narratives. Voices Of Light – African Hymns Reimagined Vol. 1 was created through human artistic leadership, musical direction, and vocal performance, supported by the responsible use of advanced production technologies, including AI-assisted tools, to enhance sound design, arrangement depth, and overall listening quality.

    This approach reflects a forward-looking production philosophy, where technology is used to amplify human creativity rather than replace it, ensuring authenticity, emotional depth, and artistic integrity remain at the core of the work. HiPipo positions Voices of Light – African Hymns Reimagined Vol. 1 as part of a broader vision to build a global gospel and inspirational ecosystem. The project is expected to power daily listening habits, community engagement, digital experiences, and future live and visual productions.The long-term goal is to establish the album as a default daily soundtrack for millions of people worldwide, embedding it into routines, platforms, and shared cultural moments.

    “We are not just releasing music. We are creating a daily experience for humanity, one that people can return to every morning, every evening, and in every moment they need light. Voices Of Light – African Hymns Reimagined Vol. 1 is built for scale, for impact, and for generations.” — Innocent Kawooya, NIM, CEO, HiPipo.

    Access the album via a single global link here: https://ditto.fm/voices-of-light-voices-of-light
  • The Hidden Tax of Piracy; How illegal streaming drains Africa of jobs, opportunity and creative output

    The Hidden Tax of Piracy; How illegal streaming drains Africa of jobs, opportunity and creative output

    By Rinaldi Jamugisa

    While most taxes are financial, sometimes a social limitation exacts a spiritual and social toll from a country. This is the case with content piracy and illegal streaming. The theft of Africa’s creative work drains the continent of its artistic expression; its very ideas.

    Creative expression is a human urge, but it can only become a full-time career when it is financially viable. Because of its fundamental importance, entire industries have been built around the sharing of artistic work. In today’s economy, this tends to take the form of digital content steaming – music, movies, series, and live televised entertainment.

    However, for the same reason that over-the-top (OTT) digital platforms are convenient for sharing content, they also become targets for piracy and content theft. Much-loved entertainment providers like MultiChoice, a Canal+ company, are prime targets for this type of exploitation, which often takes the form of illegal streaming.

    A fundamental violation of intellectual property, illegal streaming may come free or extremely cheaply for users. It also generates significant income for the criminal syndicates that prey on the work of Africa’s artists. However, this theft of copyrighted material functions as a tax on the legitimate artists and businesses producing it. Every time a series is pirated, legitimate producers and rights-holders are robbed of fair payment. This means the series itself becomes less attractive to business investment. The threshold at which a show is worth producing becomes that much higher.

    Rinaldi

    For small and growing shows, illegal streaming essentially taxes this content out of existence. Content theft means shows are not commissioned, and the crews – directors, camera operators, make-up artists, sound engineers, among others are robbed of jobs and opportunities. London-based piracy monitoring and content protection firm MUSO has found that unlicensed streaming is the predominant source of TV and film piracy, accounting for 96%. TV piracy is by far the predominant form of content piracy, and the organisation detected 229.4 million visits to pirate websites in 2023, a 6.7% increase on the year before. Piracy is a “hidden tax” paid by creators, crews, sports bodies and customers via lost revenue. It’s also a tax on audiences, through degraded services. Globally, it’s been estimated that digital video piracy costs the entertainment industry up to $71 billion in annual losses.

    This impact translates into reduced taxation incomes for government, which leaves less budget for social services. IP theft at this scale is therefore a drain on the quality of life of all citizens. For users, there are numerous risks to using illegal streaming services. Besides contravening copyright law, people subscribing to such services open themselves up to credit-card fraud. Software and devices can become infected with malware, and you run the risk of having your identity stolen. To try to remove this tax on the entertainment sector, law-enforcement authorities launch raids, issue take-down orders and even shut down infringing pirate streamers. Unfortunately, as soon as one platform is taken down, another often appears to take its place. As Africa’s most-loved storyteller, MultiChoice operates at the nexus of the streaming ecosystem.

    MultiChoice creates the content that catches the imagination of Africa’s people, it supports thousands of creators who work as staff and suppliers, and it is therefore at the heart of the fight to protect that content. MultiChoice cybersecurity business Irdeto has developed sophisticated tracing and watermarking technologies, which allow them to protect more than six billion devices around the world. The company secures 7.2 -billion streams in a single month, and supports legitimate content through more than 17-billion DRM license transactions.

    As a leader of the Partners Against Piracy campaign, the organisation has also helped raise awareness of the impact of illicit streaming, and how to fight it. But to ultimately lift the tax that undermines the functioning of Africa’s creative economy, to free the stories, the ideas and the cultural energy, it’s up to African audiences to take the ethical path, and to support the creators they profess to love. By making the right choices, and paying the affordable subscriptions to legitimate streaming services, we invest in Africa’s storytelling economy. It is only through our own actions that illicit streaming has the power levy such prohibitive taxes on our industry. And it is the actions of the African audiences that can remove those taxes. When users say no to pirated content, they set African creativity free.

    The writer is the PR and Communications Manager, MultiChoice Uganda.

  • Ugandan Saxophonist Isaiah Katumwa Breaks into Billboard Smooth Jazz Rankings

    Ugandan Saxophonist Isaiah Katumwa Breaks into Billboard Smooth Jazz Rankings

    Uganda’s celebrated saxophonist, Isaiah Katumwa, has scored a major international milestone after his latest single, New Days,debuted on the prestigious Billboard Smooth Jazz Airplay Chart, marking a defining moment not only in his career but also for Uganda’s jazz scene.

    According to emerging chart data and artist confirmations, New Days entered the Billboard Smooth Jazz Airplay rankings at No. 85, a significant achievement in a highly competitive global genre dominated by established American and European jazz acts.

    A Breakthrough Moment for Ugandan Jazz

    The Billboard Smooth Jazz Airplay chart tracks the most-played smooth jazz songs across radio stations, using audience data monitored by industry systems like Luminate.  

    For an African artist, particularly from East Africa, to break into this space underscores both artistic excellence and a growing global appetite for diverse jazz expressions.

    Katumwa’s New Days has also been gaining traction beyond Billboard, appearing on international streaming charts such as SmoothJazz.com’s Top 100, where it has climbed into notable positions among global contemporaries.

    The Sound Behind the Success

    New Days reflects Katumwa’s signature blend of smooth jazz, African rhythm, and contemporary soul influences. Known for his polished saxophone tone and uplifting compositions, the Ugandan musician has spent years building an international following through tours, collaborations, and consistent releases.

    Music analysts say the track’s success lies in its radio-friendly structure, melodic accessibility, and cross-cultural appeal, key ingredients for breaking into the Smooth Jazz Airplay chart, which is heavily influenced by radio programmers.

    Why This Matters

    Katumwa’s Billboard entry is more than a personal win it signals a broader shift: Global recognition of African instrumental music beyond Afrobeat and mainstream pop.

    Increased opportunities for East African jazz artists on international platforms and Validation of independent African musicians competing in global genres.

    Historically, the Billboard smooth jazz space has been dominated by artists from the United States and Europe. Katumwa’spresence introduces a fresh African voice into that ecosystem, potentially opening doors for others in the region.

    What Next?

    Industry observers will now be watching whether New Days can climb higher on the chart, as sustained radio play is key to longevity on Billboard rankings. With continued international airplay and streaming growth, Katumwa could solidify his place among global smooth jazz elites.

    For Ugandan music, this milestone reinforces a powerful narrative: local talent, when refined and globally positioned, can compete and win on the world stage.

    As Katumwa himself hinted while celebrating the milestone, the journey of New Days is only just beginning.

  • Juliet Zawedde looks elegant & stunning as she proudly calls herself Mrs Bushoke

    Juliet Zawedde looks elegant & stunning as she proudly calls herself Mrs Bushoke

    Socialite and entrepreneur Juliet Zawedde is surely enjoying true love from Tanzanian singer Bushoke.

    While sharing photos on her social media platforms today, Juliet had these words to say, “Mrs Bushoke…Just a little glow, a little grace, and a lot of self-love. Wrapped in elegance and a touch of glow”.

    Juliet Zawedde

    The loaded entrepreneur seems to be enjoying every bit of her love with Bushoke. She has truly found Mr. Right.

    Juliet Zawedde and Bushoke got officially married in November 2025

    Juliet Zawedde is the President and founder of Convenient Homecare Hospice Services Limited and Transportation based in Sudbury, Boston Massachusetts in the United States of America.

  • Blu3 set to drop a new single to mark their re-union officially

    Blu3 set to drop a new single to mark their re-union officially

    The Blu3 trio of Lillian Mbabazi, Jackie Chandiru and Cindy Sanyu are officially back and it is about to get hot.

    They are dropping a new single this week titled ‘Moto’. The vibe is so high, fire in every note and move.

    From sisterhood to solo journeys, the dynamic trio have returned stronger and this time, they are bringing the heat. Get ready, feel the fire, the turn up is real this week. Watch the space!!!

  • Pictorial: Abeeka Band takes Centre stage with Landmark Debut Concert

    Pictorial: Abeeka Band takes Centre stage with Landmark Debut Concert

    Ntinda: Kampala turned up in full force for Abeeka Band’s highly anticipated debut concert, held yesterday at Ndere Cultural Centre and organised by Talent Africa Group.

    From as early as midday, excitement was evident as social media buzzed and traffic built up along the Ndere–Kisaasi stretch hours before showtime. By 9PM, the venue was at full capacity as Abeeka Band took to the stage — a clear reflection of their growing influence.

    Having started just five years ago performing for intimate audiences, the band delivered a full-circle moment with a high-energy set featuring reggae classics from Morgan Heritage and Chronixx, alongside a powerful tribute to Mowzey Radio through Lwaki Onumya, which had the crowd singing along.

    Known for performing almost nightly across Kampala, Abeeka has built a loyal following that showed up in full support for this milestone event.

    Speaking after the concert, Aly Allibhai, CEO of Talent Africa Group, said:

    “This concert marks a shift in Uganda’s entertainment scene. Live bands are no longer background acts — they are headline performers capable of drawing large audiences and delivering premium experiences.”

    A representative from Tusker Malt added:

    “Abeeka Band represents the authenticity, craft, and consistency that Tusker Malt stands for. Seeing them headline and fill a venue like this is a powerful moment for Uganda’s live music culture.”

    The event also reflected growing collaboration within the music industry, with several artists in attendance showing support.

    Abeeka Band’s debut concert ultimately proved one thing: live bands are ready for centre stage.

    The concert was sponsored by Tusker Malt, The Singleton, MTN MoMo, Aquafina, Capital FM, SafeBoda, Talent Africa Group, H&H Restaurant Namugongo, NBS TV and Afro Mobile.

  • Mun G, Kohen Jaycee to Headline Vibez Nzuri’s First 2026 Edition in Najjera

    Mun G, Kohen Jaycee to Headline Vibez Nzuri’s First 2026 Edition in Najjera

    Kampala: Vibez Nzuri is set to kick off its 2026 calendar in style, with celebrated Ugandan rapper Mun G and rising star Kohen Jaycee confirmed as headline performers for its highly anticipated first edition of the year. Mun G, Kohen Jaycee to Headline Vibez Nzuri’s First 2026 Edition in Najjera.

    The event, scheduled for May 2 at Gazebo, opposite Total Petrol Station in Najjera, promises a high-energy experience that blends music, culture and vibrant social interaction.

    The duo will headline a diverse lineup of performers including CXJ Powell and Kyle Simba, all expected to deliver electrifying sets.Mun G, a legendary powerhouse in the Ugandan music industry known for his witty lyricism and chart-topping hits, will take center stage at the much-awaited extravaganza. With a captivating stage presence and an energy that has defined the local rap scene, Mun G is set to mesmerize audiences and set the dance floor on fire.

    Kohen Jaycee, a Ugandan RnB singer, vocalist and songwriter, is one of the fast-rising voices on the country’s urban music scene. He continues to make his mark with a unique blend of style, charisma and a relatable sound.

    Known for his smooth delivery and growing catalogue of crowd-friendly tracks, Kohen Jaycee brings a fresh wave of energy that resonates with a new generation of music lovers, positioning him as one to watch at this year’s Vibez Nzuri experience.

    Building on its reputation for curating immersive entertainment experiences, Vibez Nzuri continues to position itself as a key player in Kampala’s urban events space, consistently bringing together both established and rising talent under one roof. Beyond the live performances, the event will feature an exciting rotation of DJs including DJ Bugy, Gnarly, Dread Lazor, Woolfie and Hey Dez, who will keep the crowd engaged with seamless mixes throughout the day.

    The experience will be further elevated by MCs such as Guh, Dreadlock Dziz, St Trevor and Jollet, ensuring a lively and well-hosted atmosphere. Speaking ahead of the event, Vibez Nzuri Team Lead Brian Owomugisha said the return marks a renewed commitment to delivering memorable experiences.“We are back to curate enjoyable spaces full of vibes and enjoyment.

    This edition is all about bringing people together through great music, energy and a shared love for good times,” Owomugisha noted. He added that, together with partners, the team has invested in creating an atmosphere that goes beyond just performances, promising an immersive setup with engaging visuals and a vibrant ambiance tailored to enhance the overall experience.

    With gates opening at 2PM and entry set at Shs30,000, the event is expected to attract a wide mix of music lovers and partygoers looking to tap into one of Kampala’s most consistent lifestyle experiences.

    Tickets are already available online via vibeznzuri.com.As Vibez Nzuri opens its 2026 chapter, the May 2 event is shaping up to be a standout moment on Kampala’s entertainment calendar, setting the tone for what promises to be another exciting year of curated experiences.