Showbizuganda

Category: Hangouts & Events

This section brings you what is happening regarding social events around town. It also reviews theme nights in hangout places

  • Uganda Pickleball Open brings together players from Seven Nations in Kampala

    Uganda Pickleball Open brings together players from Seven Nations in Kampala

    Kampala: The Uganda Pickleball Association successfully hosted the Uganda Pickleball Open on September 18 and 19, 2026, at the Old Kampala Sports Arena.

    The two-day tournament brought together players from Uganda, Kenya, Canada, India, Tanzania, the United States of America and the United Kingdom, highlighting the rapid growth of pickleball in Uganda and its increasing international appeal.

    Players competed across five categories: Men’sSingles, Women’s Singles, Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles.

    Tournament Results

    Men’s Singles

    1st – Grivine Pepela
    2nd – Balina Raykhan
    3rd -.Adrian Magandazi
    Women’s Singles
    1st – Madia Namaganda
    2nd – Veronika Nakabira
    3rd – Lisa Amenya

    Men’s Doubles

    1st – Kabanda Shafick and Mugula James
    2nd – Ntale Latiff and James Mulwana
    3rd – Aly Allibhai and Believen Green

    Women’s Doubles

    1st – Lisa Amenya and Salisha Chandra
    2nd – Madia Namaganda and Veronika Nakabira
    3rd – Nina Kamukama and Patience Namataka

    Mixed Doubles

    1st – Kabanda Shafick and Madia Namaganda
    2nd – Stephen Okoth and Lisa Amenya
    3rd- Grivine Pepela and Salisha Chandra.

    Robert Bakaze, President of the Uganda Pickleball Association, welcomed the strong participation and praised the players, sponsors and partners who contributed to the success of the tournament.

    “The Uganda Pickleball Open demonstrated the tremendous potential of this sport in our country. Welcoming players from seven nations was an important milestone for us and reflects the growing interest in pickleball across Uganda and the wider region. We congratulate all the winners and participants, and sincerely thank our sponsors and partners for helping us deliver a successful tournament,” said Bakaze.

    The Uganda Pickleball Association remains committed to expanding the sport through organised competitions, player development, community engagement and partnerships that
    will introduce pickleball to more people across the country.

    The Uganda Pickleball Open was proudly supported by Paddelle, Talent Africa Group, 1st Financial Foundations, Pickled Gems, Teuton sports and UK Pickleball Shop.

  • Deedan Muyira, Brian Mulondo to MC at Dignity For Her Fundraising Dinner at Sheraton Hotel Kampala

    Deedan Muyira, Brian Mulondo to MC at Dignity For Her Fundraising Dinner at Sheraton Hotel Kampala

    Kampala: Experienced Master of Ceremonies Ms Deedan Muyira and Brian Mulondo are set to take charge of the mic at Dignity For Her Dinner, we can confirm.

    The high-profile dinner is hosted by Ms. Racheal Naijuka aka Tania, the CEO of Tania Reusables Pads, and is slated for 16th October 2026 at the Rwenzori Ballroom, Sheraton Hotel Kampala.

    The two distinguished MCs will use their vast experience in Mceeing corporate events to keep the audience entertained through the evening and rejuvenate energy for the cause. The news was confirmed to this website by the host Ms Racheal Naijuka.

    The Cause: Ending Menstrual Poverty

    The dinner aims to raise funds to support Ms. Naijuka’s nationwide campaign dubbed “30,000 Girls and Women Per District”, which seeks to provide reusable sanitary pads to 30,000 girls (school going) and women in every district across Uganda.

    Ms. Naijuka recently launched the campaign to combat menstrual poverty, which has seen 71% of girls in most districts lack access to emergency pads at school, forcing many to miss classes or use unsafe materials.

    Her initiative focuses on providing locally made reusable pads, keeping girls in school, and restoring dignity.

    How to Attend and Support

    The organizers are calling upon corporates, individuals, and well-wishers to support the cause.

    Tickets: UGX 200,000 per person
    Table: UGX 2,000,000 for 10 people.

    Deedan Muyira

    Every ticket purchased helps 30,000 girls and women per district manage their menstrual cycle freely and with dignity, courtesy of Tania Reusables Pads.

    For tickets, sponsorship and support, contact:
    +256 788 962 888 / +256 751 967 888.

  • Here are Independence Staycation Specials at Sundiata Beach Resort!

    Here are Independence Staycation Specials at Sundiata Beach Resort!

    Sundiata Beach Resort located in Kitenda, Buwaya Entebbe has introduced Independence Staycation specials to make your Independence holiday unforgettable with a relaxing lakeside getaway at the lake side.

    If you Book 3 nights, you get 30% OFF the 3rd night with Room Rates at Family Room – $380, Single – $100 and Double Occupancy – $110.

    The offer starts from 7th–12th October 2026. Book your stay and celebrate Independence with a peaceful escape by the water. For bookings, call or WhatsApp +256780895919.

  • Kashushu redefines digital Art as She Announces FEARLESS: A Metamorphosis Story, Her Next Major Art Show in Kampala

    Kashushu redefines digital Art as She Announces FEARLESS: A Metamorphosis Story, Her Next Major Art Show in Kampala

    Kampala: Renowned Ugandan visual trailblazer Natasha Karungi, universally celebrated as Kashushu, has officially announced her next landmark solo exhibition, FEARLESS: A Metamorphosis Story. Set to run from November 14 to 22 at Summit Residence in Naguru, this month-long showcase promises an audacious fusion of digital illustration, wearable fashion art, interactive gaming, and extended reality (XR) installations designed to reshape how audiences experience fine art.

    The exhibition captures an extraordinary creative evolution born from a gruelling, uninterrupted 222-day drawing commitment.

    Kashushu completed one original piece every single day without exception, channeling her personal evolution into four distinct phases of growth: love, femininity, spirituality, and heightened self-awareness.

    Structured around the symbolic stages of a butterfly’s metamorphosis, FEARLESS turns relentless daily discipline into a deeply emotional narrative of human becoming, marking the most ambitious and expansive body of work in her career. Moving far beyond traditional gallery walls, FEARLESS will deliver a multi-sensory immersive cultural experience, complete with exclusive digital collectibles, interactive gaming, immersive installations and dedicated networking lounges.

    Backed by her award-winning portfolio, including her 2026 Africa International Design Award victory and high-profile creative direction campaigns for Smirnoff Uganda and other reputable brands. Kashushu is set to build a high-energy intersection between fine art, immersive tech and modern youth culture. “I started this daily challenge to strip away fear and face the daunting void of a blank page every single day,” shared Kashushu.

    “The goal was never simply to accumulate 222 individual pieces; it was about cultivating the quiet grit to show up until fear completely surrendered its power. FEARLESS documents that raw, beautiful process of transforming from the inside out, and I want our audience to feel that exact surge of liberation through sound, art, technology and interactive play.”

    The event will open with an immersive event on November 14 that brings together international art collectors, technology pioneers, creative leaders, and cultural enthusiasts. By seamlessly merging daily artistic devotion with cutting-edge digital experiences, FEARLESS will set a definitive new standard for immersive contemporary art presentations across the African continent.

  • Vybz Lounge, the ultimate source of entertainment & vibes in Mbarara City

    Vybz Lounge, the ultimate source of entertainment & vibes in Mbarara City

    With the new management in place, the hangout has established itself as the most happening place in Mbarara City

    We wanna partyyyy!!! Party lovers in Mbarara City can now have a smile as they get fully entertained at Vybz Lounge after establishing itself as Mbarara’s most happening venue.

    After the new management took over, they promised excellent service full of vibes to their clients and this is what is happening – good music and good food.

    The new management has put up good theme nights which are attracting clients on a daily basis.

    Vybz Lounge which is located on Mbaguta Street Easy View Complex 2nd Floor kicks off with Tuesday Burger; It’s big, it’s tasty, it’s yummy and at UGX 25k only. Free delivery around town for any orders.

    Then vibe with Urban &Trendy Thursday which happens every Thursday with all pizza promotions where you buy one at 35k and get one free.

    Step Out Fridays welcomes you into the weekend with ‘The Vibe Masters’ take over edition featuring Sean Davis, Mambo Brizo, Nati J, Innox and Lingz. This is a massive weekend kicker.

    Big Sato brings you the real weekend vibes on Saturdays with hype by MC Coco and Lingz MC as you enjoy a wide range of football live on giant screens.

    The Fantastic 5 Band winds up the week with the live band Sunday vibes.

    With the new football season underway, catch all your favorite teams in action there.

    Vybz Lounge is located at Easy View Complex 2nd Floor on Mbaguta Street. For reservations contact +256758882520 or +256772181654.

  • StartTimes in conjunction with Miss Uganda unveils 22 finalists in a night of glamour, music & celebration

    StartTimes in conjunction with Miss Uganda unveils 22 finalists in a night of glamour, music & celebration

    Kampala: The Miss Uganda 2026 search reached an exciting milestone on Friday evening as 22 finalists were officially presented to the public at a glamorous Presentation Night held at the Kampala Sheraton Hotel and broadcast exclusively live on StarTimes Makula KiKa.

    The Presentation Night marked a significant moment in the journey towards crowning the next Miss Uganda and was particularly special as Miss Uganda celebrates 15 years of pageantry, marking a decade and a half of celebrating Ugandan beauty, talent, confidence and ambition. The 2026 search officially began on 26 July 2026, with the competition travelling across Uganda’s geographical regions in search of young women who embody the beauty, talent, confidence and aspirations of the country.

    “When I look at what Miss Uganda has achieved over the last 15 years, I don’t just see crowns and titles—I see lives transformed, dreams realized, and young women empowered to become leaders in their communities and beyond,” said Brenda Nanyonjo CEO Miss Uganda Foundation.

    Following the regional search, 22 finalists emerged to represent the crème de la crème of contestants from across the different regions of Uganda, bringing together a diverse representation of the country’s beauty, culture and talent. The highly anticipated Presentation Night brought together celebrities, women in sport, government dignitaries, industry leaders, sponsors, partners and members of the public for an evening filled with glamour, entertainment and celebration.

    “The evening offered guests a rich mix of engaging touchpoints and immersive brand experiences, with attendees enjoying product sampling from Vaseline and 7 Days. The celebrations also featured a special toast by V&A Sherry in honour of 15 years of celebrating Ugandan beauty and a beautifully curated luxury lounge by Oppein Home, adding an elegant and memorable touch to the evening” said Klaire Komakech – Director Business Development.

    Guests were treated to electrifying musical performances by Abeeka Band and celebrated Ugandan musician Spice Diana, adding to the excitement as the 22 finalists took centre stage for their official introduction to the public. The event also provided a platform for sponsors and partners to showcase their products and services, creating meaningful brand engagement opportunities while supporting one of Uganda’s celebrated beauty pageants.

    The Miss Uganda 2026 search is lead sponsored by Oppein Home, with V&A Sherry, Vaseline, CHINT, Uhome, Evervess and 7 Days International supporting the journey as partner sponsors. As part of its commitment to bringing major entertainment experiences closer to audiences across Uganda, StarTimes broadcast the event live on Makula KiKa from 6:00 PM, enabling viewers across the country to follow the celebrations from the comfort of their homes.

    “As StarTimes congratulates Miss Uganda foundation upon making 15years, I also take the opportunity to thank them for accepting to demystify the pageant into a TV reality show. We are also congratulate and thank our esteemed viewers for enjoying and supporting Miss Uganda on Makula Kika. You have kept loyal viewers in the Miss Uganda updates on Makuka TV. Your loyalty keeps our service growing stronger every single day. We wish the finalists all the best of the journey to the crown”, said Kenneth Kazooba Vice President StarTimes.

    With the 22 finalists now unveiled, the competition enters its next phase as the contestants prepare for boot camp and the subsequent stages of the competition. The journey will culminate in the highly anticipated Miss Uganda 2026 Grand Finale on 10th October 2026, where the next Miss Uganda will be crowned.

  • Spinners Season 2 accelerates onto Pearl Magic Prime this October

    Spinners Season 2 accelerates onto Pearl Magic Prime this October

    Following a critically acclaimed first season, Spinners returns for a second season, bringing more action, higher stakes and a brand-new broadcast home on Pearl Magic Prime. Season 2 puts the pedal to the metal as the stakes get higher and the players become more dangerous – introducing new locations, new cast members, new enemies and fresh challenges. Beyond the adrenaline-fuelled world of spinning culture, the new season explores the price of power, the cycle of violence and the lingering impact of grief.

    Set to premiere on Pearl Magic Prime on 25 October 2026 at 22:00, the eight-episode drama series sees the return of lead character Ethan (Cantona James), who leaves the Cape Flats in the Western Cape of South Africa behind and settles into his new life as a rising spinning star in the city of Johannesburg, South Africa.

    Alongside friends Trevor (Braedon Buys), Shane (Dillon Windvogel), Angelo (Nahum Hughes), and his love interest Amber (Chelsea Thomas), Ethan finds himself navigating a world filled with opportunity, ambition and danger. Having ended Season 1 on a high note and now embarking on a highly anticipated second season, Cantona James says one of the most rewarding aspects of working on the series has been filming in communities that reflect the realities portrayed on screen.

    “I had the opportunity to act in spaces where you cannot be oblivious to the dire circumstances that you are presenting. You find yourself filming at 9:00 in the morning while seeing young people hustle to make something out of nothing and it reminds you why I chose this craft. It is a reminder that I am representing young people who live in communities that have lost hope. Cantona adds that the series’ journey from Cape Town to Johannesburg mirrors a personal journey of his own.

    “As a Jozi boy playing a character who moves from Cape Town to Johannesburg, there’s something deeply meaningful about telling this story. I’m also proud to represent spinning culture, which has long been shared across black and coloured communities. Growing up in Johannesburg and particularly in Randfontein, I was exposed to many different cultures. Being part of a show that celebrates and mobilises those connections is special. We live in a rainbow nation, but we rarely see that represented authentically on our screens. I believe Spinners is one of those shows that brings young black and coloured people together in a way that feels honest and real.”

    The MasekosJoining Spinners Season 2 is the Maseko family, led by matriarch Ma Sithole (Clementine Mosimane), alongside her grandson and Ethan’s new rival, Sayi (Aphiwe Mkefe) and granddaughter Amahle (Luyanda Zwane). Here’s what Luyanda Zwane had to say about joining the second season and what excites her most about her character: “Being part of Spinners Season 2 represents an exciting moment not only for me, but for African storytelling. With the investment being made in African content, we’re seeing our stories told with world-class production values and shared on a global stage. It’s an incredible opportunity to showcase my talent to international audiences, producers and casting directors, while continuing to grow as a South African actress. Africa has always had extraordinary talent – now the world has more opportunities to see it.

    “She adds that her character represents Black excellence in the proudest way. “What excites me most about Amahle is that she represents success, creativity and possibility. She’s a Black artist who travels the world, sells her work and thrives in her craft. It’s powerful to see that kind of representation on screen because it shows young Black creatives that their dreams are valid and achievable. Amahle isn’t defined by struggle – she’s a woman already succeeding and pursuing her passion. I hope audiences see her as a reminder that our stories can also be stories of excellence, ambition and achievement. Africa is rising, and this is our time to shine.”

    Fellow cast member Aphiwe Mkefe echoed this sentiment. “This moment is everything to me. To tell a story the best way I know how – that means more than I can put into words. There’s something deeply important about telling authentic African stories on a global scale, about bringing our world to audiences who may have never seen it before. And with this character, I carry that responsibility with utmost care and dedication. He deserves nothing less.”

    Aphiwe adds that he shares a deep personal connection with his character.“This is definitely a kid I’ve come across and to some extent, a kid I’ve been. Navigating his inner turmoil, his family dynamics, all while chasing what feels like a dying dream… that was both an incredible challenge and an honour to carry. To walk into a world that’s already been built with such love and be trusted to grow it further as a contributor – that’s not something I take lightly.”

    Spinners Season 2 is co-created by Joachim Landau, developed by Sean Steinber and Matthew Jankes with Benjamin Hoffman serving as showrunner and Jaco Bouwer returning as director. Bouwer explains that, in Season 2, spinning becomes a powerful symbol of the show’s central question: are you in control of your destiny or simply trying to hold on? “This season is personal,” says Jaco Bouwer. “Not just for Ethan, but for all of us who’ve lost something while chasing freedom. Spinners Season 2 is about the scars we carry – the ones that don’t show up in rear-view mirrors.”

    Spinners Season 2 premieres on Pearl Magic Prime (Channel 148 on Dstv and 303 on GOtv) on 25 October 2026 at 22:00.

  • Nyege Nyege Festival returns to the Nile for its 11th edition dubbed ‘The Wakaliwood’

    Nyege Nyege Festival returns to the Nile for its 11th edition dubbed ‘The Wakaliwood’

    The festival returns to Kalagala Falls from 19th –22nd November 2026, bringing together more than 200 artists across seven stages for an immersive experience where music, film, culture and adventure collide

    Kampala: The annual Nyege Nyege International Festival back to the banks of the River Nile from 19th –22nd November 2026 for its 11th edition, bringing together more than 200 artists across seven stages for four days of music, film, art, culture, fashion and adventure. Following its landmark 10th-anniversary edition in 2025, Nyege Nyege enters its second decade with a bold new creative direction: The Wakaliwood Edition.

    Through a collaboration with Uganda’s internationally recognised independent film movement, Wakaliwood, parts of the festival site at Kalagala Falls, Kangulumira, will be transformed into a living movie set. Artists, performers and festival goers will become part of the action as scenes from a new film are captured during the four-day festival—turning Nyege Nyege into an experience audiences can watch, participate in and ultimately become part of. Because at Nyege Nyege, life feels like a movie.

    A NEW CHAPTER FOR NYEGE NYEGE

    After ten editions, Nyege Nyege is entering a new chapter by exploring the intersection of Uganda’s music, film and wider creative culture. “After ten editions, we wanted to enter the next chapter by doing something that could only happen here. Nyege Nyege and Wakaliwood share a similar spirit: creating with what you have, building your own world and finding ways to share that world far beyond Uganda. This year, those two universes come together. The festival becomes part music festival, part movie set and part playground, with the Nile running through the middle of it all,” said Derek Debru, Co-founder of Nyege Nyege.

    The Wakaliwood collaboration will create a dedicated world within the festival while bringing filmmaking directly into the festival environment. It will celebrate the DIY imagination, humour and distinctly Ugandan creative language that has taken Wakaliwood from Wakaliga to audiences around the world.

    “We are excited to welcome the world back to the banks of the River Nile for the 11th edition of Nyege Nyege Festival. This year, we are delivering an even richer experience that brings together music, film, fashion, tourism, adventure and Uganda’s creative industries. Through the Wakaliwood collaboration and our expanded festival programme, we want to showcase Uganda’s originality, energy and cultural influence while creating meaningful opportunities for artists, communities and the wider tourism economy,” said Aly Allibhai, CEO of Talent Africa Group.

    SO UG: UGANDA TAKES THE STAGE

    The SO UG Stage, powered by Uganda Waragi, returns as a vibrant celebration of contemporary Ugandan music, entertainment and culture.The stage will feature artists and personalities including King Saha, Sheilah Gashumba, Etania—The Life of the Party, Linus and Abeeka Band, with further names to be announced. Beyond music, SO UG will bring together comedy, fashion, visual art and interactive experiences, creating a space dedicated to the energy and diversity of contemporary Ugandan popular culture.

    “Nyege Nyege and Uganda Waragi are both as authentically Ugandan as it gets,” said Hilda Aguti, Head of Mainstream Spirits at Uganda Breweries Limited. “Last year, we proudly celebrated 60 years of Uganda Waragi and a decade of Nyege Nyege, reflecting on how far this movement has come. As we look to the future, we are excited to welcome the world to Kalagala Falls and broaden the scale of a festival that truly celebrates the spirit of our people.”

    CULTURE, TOURISM AND INVESTMENT

    Speaking during the press conference panel on the role of culture in Uganda’s tourism and investment story, Ambassador Rosa Malango, Special Presidential Advisor on Tourism and Trade, said: “Major cultural events such as Nyege Nyege are much more than moments of entertainment; they are platforms through which Uganda can tell its story to the world and create real economic opportunities at home. When people travel to Uganda for a festival, they are not only buying a ticket—they are staying in hotels and camps, using transport, eating at local restaurants, buying from creatives and businesses, and discovering destinations they may return to or recommend to others.”

    At the festival, Ambassador Malango will also showcase TAKC Africa—the Tumaini African Knowledge Centre—a Pan-African partnership, knowledge and solutions platform focused on supporting African entrepreneurs, women and young people, building partnerships and contributing to Uganda’s positioning as a sustainable investment hub. In partnership with Explore Uganda, the national tourism brand care of the Uganda Tourism Board, Nyege Nyege 2026 will once again use the festival as a gateway to discovering more of the country. A dedicated tourism experience will connect visitors with destinations, cultural experiences and adventure activities across Uganda, with curated packages designed for both international visitors and Ugandans seeking to extend their festival journey. The festival will also host a special AFCON experience, bringing football into the wider programme alongside music, culture and entertainment.

    “Nyege Nyege Festival provides a powerful platform to showcase Uganda’s tourism, culture and creative energy to regional and international audiences. Its setting on the banks of the River Nile allows visitors to experience our music and hospitality alongside the adventure, natural beauty and cultural diversity that make Uganda such a remarkable destination. Through our partnership with the festival, we invite guests to come for Nyege Nyege and stay longer to explore everything Uganda has to offer,” said Arthur Lwamufu, Senior Segment Lead at the Uganda Tourism Board.

    200+ ARTISTS. SEVEN STAGES. FOUR DAYS.

    While this year’s creative concept expands beyond music, music remains at the heart of Nyege Nyege. More than 200 artists from Uganda, East Africa, across the African continent and beyond will perform across seven stages.

    The programme will span electronic music, live bands, club sounds, experimental music, traditional forms and emerging underground scenes.The popular Dub & Reggae Stage will return, alongside dedicated Kenyan and Rwandan takeovers, highlighting some of the artists and musical movements shaping East Africa.The first wave of artists and the full stage programme will be announced in the coming weeks.

    BACK TO THE NILE

    Nyege Nyege returns to Kalagala Falls for a second consecutive year, bringing the festival back to the spectacular natural landscape that hosted its 10th-anniversary edition in 2025. The riverside setting allows the festival to exist at the intersection of music, nature, culture and adventure. Building on lessons from last year, the 2026 edition will introduce improvements to entrances, parking, movement around the site and accommodation. An expanded camping village will accommodate approximately 1,000 people, providing visitors with a more accessible and affordable way to stay within the festival environment. The expanded festival footprint will also incorporate Adrift River Club, giving festivalgoers additional accommodation options and access to adventure experiences around the Nile.

    “We are excited to welcome Nyege Nyege back to the Nile. Adrift was built around adventure, the river and creating memorable experiences, so it is exciting to see that energy come together with one of Uganda’s biggest cultural gatherings,” said Leanne Haigh, CEO of Adrift.

    BOILER ROOM RETURNS

    Boiler Room will return to Nyege Nyege in 2026, connecting Ugandan and African artists with its global audience. Its return continues a relationship that has helped document and amplify alternative music scenes emerging from Uganda and across the continent. The Boiler Room programme will be announced alongside the upcoming lineup reveal.

    AFRICAN ELECTRONIC MUSIC CONFERENCE RETURNS

    Ahead of the festival, Nyege Nyege will host the second edition of the African Electronic Music Conference (AEMC) from 17–19 November 2026. The conference will bring together artists, collectives, labels, promoters and cultural organisations from across Africa and its diaspora to discuss touring and mobility, artist development, creative infrastructure, collaboration and the future of Africa’s music ecosystem. Launched in 2025, AEMC is also developing into a year-round platform connecting the scenes, artists, clubs and organisations shaping electronic and alternative music across the continent.

    MORE THAN A FESTIVAL

    Born in Kampala in 2015, Nyege Nyege has grown into an international meeting point for music, art and culture. Over the past decade, the festival has connected audiences with new artists, genres and creative scenes from Uganda and across Africa, while attracting visitors, artists, journalists, cultural organisations and music professionals from around the world.Its 11th edition opens a new chapter—one that remains rooted in music and discovery while increasingly connecting the festival to film, visual culture, tourism, fashion and Uganda’s wider creative economy.Same river. New chapter. Different madness.Further announcements covering the first artist lineup, stages, tickets, camping, tourism packages, travel information and additional collaborations will follow.

    OFFICIAL PARTNERS

    The 11th edition of Nyege Nyege Festival is supported by: Explore Uganda / Uganda Tourism Board — Tourism Partner, Uganda Waragi — Official Alcohol PartnerMTN MoMo — Official Ticketing and Cashless Partner, SafeBoda — Official Transport Partner, Next Media / NBS Television / KISS FM — Official Media Partner, Talent Africa Group — Festival Promoter, Event Management and Production Partner.

    CREATIVE AND INDUSTRY PARTNERS

    The festival will also work aside industry partners such as National Tourism Events Organisers Federation, Linus Tatoos, Abryanz Fashion, Wakaliwood, TAKC Africa and The Ikon Awards and more.

  • Kirabira, KCCA take on Kampala’s noise crisis as Bar owners urged to soundproof their venues

    Kirabira, KCCA take on Kampala’s noise crisis as Bar owners urged to soundproof their venues

    Socialite President calls for responsible nightlife, sound engineering and cooperation from landlords and entertainment operators

    By Brian Mugenyi

    Kampala: For years, residents living near entertainment venues across Kampala have complained about loud music, late-night disturbances and noise spilling from bars into surrounding neighbourhoods.

    Now, Socialite President Edson Kirabira, also Civil Coordinator for Operation Wealth Creation in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area, says he is working with the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) to promote a new approach to managing noise from bars and entertainment establishments.

    The initiative is aimed at sensitising bar owners, landlords and entertainment operators on responsible sound management, including the use of soundproof structures and appropriate sound-engineering systems.

    Kirabira says the campaign is intended to address complaints from residents who have endured excessive noise for years.

    He says the solution should not rely only on enforcement, but also on education, cooperation and modern technology.

    ‘LET US WORK TOGETHER’

    Speaking during a media briefing, Kirabira appealed to bar owners and landlords to cooperate with the initiative.

    “Dear members of the public, I am advising the bar owners to work with us and accept to be lectured and monitored,” he said.

    Kirabira said the programme will include an induction and sensitisation exercise for bar owners and landlords.

    The training, according to him, will introduce operators to modern approaches to furniture, building design and sound engineering that can help contain music within entertainment premises.

    He argued that entertainment and responsible neighbourhood living should be able to coexist.

    KCCA ROLE IN CITY ORDER

    The initiative comes as KCCA continues to emphasise orderly management of Kampala and enforcement of city regulations.

    The current KCCA Executive Director is Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki, whose office is responsible for providing strategic leadership to the Authority and overseeing service delivery, enforcement of ordinances and bylaws, trade and order, and community mobilisation.

    KCCA has previously emphasised that trade order and enforcement should be conducted professionally and with consideration for residents and business operators.

    Kirabira says cooperation between community leaders, KCCA and entertainment operators can help address noise complaints without unnecessarily disrupting legitimate businesses.

    MUSIC, BUT WITH RESPONSIBILITY

    The campaign does not seek to eliminate entertainment, Kirabira said.

    Rather, he wants bar owners to ensure that music is played at responsible levels and that sound systems are properly installed to minimise disturbance to neighbouring homes and businesses.

    “Music is for all the people,” he said, while stressing the need to balance entertainment with environmental and community concerns.

    For residents, the issue is particularly important in densely populated areas where homes, businesses, bars, restaurants and other establishments operate within close proximity.

    JUMA MUWEESI APPLAUDS INITIATIVE

    Mr. Juma Muweesi praised Kirabira for taking the lead in the sensitisation campaign, saying the initiative could help create greater awareness among entertainment operators.

    He said the work requires continued monitoring and cooperation between stakeholders.

    Muweesi also described Kirabira’s wider community mobilisation activities, including his coordination role and involvement with Radio Uganda Village, as important platforms for communicating development messages to communities.

    Meanwhile, Juma Tinyefuze, chairman of Chimon, commended KCCA authorities for their efforts to improve order and public welfare in Kampala.

    A CITY LOOKING FOR BALANCE

    Kampala’s entertainment industry supports thousands of workers, including musicians, DJs, waiters, security guards, transport operators and other small-business owners.

    For that reason, stakeholders argue that noise management must balance residents’ right to a peaceful environment with the economic importance of nightlife and entertainment.

    Kirabira’s proposed approach is to encourage operators to invest in better sound systems and soundproofing rather than treating every complaint as a confrontation.

    The proposed induction sessions are expected to provide bar owners and landlords with practical guidance on responsible sound management.

    For Kampala residents who have spent years complaining about excessive noise, the real test will be whether sensitisation translates into quieter neighbourhoods.

    For entertainment operators, the challenge will be demonstrating that nightlife and responsible urban living can exist side by side.

    As Kampala continues to grow into a busier and more densely populated capital, the debate over noise is becoming part of a much larger question: how can a modern city protect both the right to entertainment and the right to peace?

    Kirabira believes the answer begins with cooperation.

    And for Kampala, the volume may soon need to come down.

  • Meet Okoobah Shakirah Kadhanah, the Ugandan Tourism Queen who scooped second spot at Miss Tourism East Africa Grand Finale

    Meet Okoobah Shakirah Kadhanah, the Ugandan Tourism Queen who scooped second spot at Miss Tourism East Africa Grand Finale

    Busoga Tourism Queen, Ms Okoobah Shakirah Kadhanah, was on Saturday 12th September among the queens vying for Miss Tourism East Africa beauty contest 2026. The inaugural event was held at Kampala Marriott Hotel Nsambya.

    On the glamourous night, she was crowned 1st Runner Up. But how much do you know about her, read on below;

    Ms Okoobah Shakirah Kadhanah is a Ugandan tourism professional, beauty queen, brand ambassador, and entrepreneur with a passion for tourism, hospitality, women empowerment, and community development.

    She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Travel and Tourism Management from Makerere University Business School (MUBS) and has experience in tourism, brand representation, marketing, sales, customer service, and events.

    Shakirah is a former Miss Tourism Kigulu and 1st Runner-Up Miss Tourism Busoga, experiences that have strengthened her leadership, public speaking, confidence, and advocacy skills.

    She is passionate about using her platforms to inspire young women, promote Uganda’s tourism potential, and create meaningful impact in her.

    Despite not winning the crown, Shakirah is not about to give up on Tourism. She has vowed l to continue pushing Busoga Tourism and Uganda at Large. Watch her take on the world!!!

    Ms Zamzam Godana Golicha from Kenya was crowned the inaugural Miss Tourism East Africa queen winner