By Prim Kembabazi

For a long time, many have admired Kampala Capital City Authority Executive director’s great looks and designs every time she steps out of her home.

While appearing at the Abryanz style and Fashion Awards last Friday, the flamboyant Politician revealed that her designs are made by someone close to her – her sister.

Jennifer who handed who was handing over the ASFAS 2016 tribute to The LATE Papa Wemba from DRC, dawned a white dress that brought out her figure perfectly. She said;

“I know that I am looking good and I have a personal designer who makes sure that I look dazzling every time. That person is called Betty and she is my sister.”

The Executive director also added that Betty is not up for hire as she only works for her. “Betty only does dresses for me and she cannot make for anyone else in case you are wondering if you can get the same look,” she added.

Way to go Auntie Jenny. Keep looking good.

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By Prim Kembabazi

Two years ago, musician Desire Luzinda, was a victim of revenge porn. Her nude photos were released on the internet by her Nigerian ex-boyfriend Franklin Emuobor who accused her of not being faithful to him.

Fast forward, the year is 2016 and the same musician is in another nude photo scandal. This time, a photo showing her upper body completely naked was posted on the internet.

Although Desire claims that the photos are from her past brought back to haunt her, some believe that she could have had the photo leaked intentionally and he is why. Just a day ago, the singer released a new video for her single Kimala. According to sources close to the singer, having a nude photo out at the same time will increase the chance of her dominating the news and making her new song popular.

“You see when the nudes first came out in 2014, her song Ekitone became an instant hit, she started getting many shows around Kampala and was the talk of town for both good and bad reasons. She made so much money and would go home with 25M a week. Now she has a new song and it seems her team wants to use the photo that was posted yesterday to popularize her new video,” a source who has known the singer for a long time told us.

Desire however insists that people have seen her shine and they want to resurrect old memories to put her down. She said; “When they see you shine, they bring back your past to haunt you and deem your light but sorry I am moving forward.”

We will keep you posted.

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During the Kilimall Kenya Black Friday media conference, Infinix Mobility announced that they had made an exclusive deal with online shopping platform; Kilimall Uganda to launch the Infinix NOTE3 and HOT4 in Uganda market on it’s Black Friday that happened last month.

Already launched in Kenya and Nigeria, the launch on Kilimall Uganda promised to excite Infinix fans with Kilimall Uganda being the only online store to sale smartphones. On November 21st the two clients; Kilimall Uganda and Infinix Mobility partnered to launch the Infinix Note 3 and Infinix Hot 4 in the Ugandan market.

On Saturday, Infinix Uganda together with Kilimall Uganda, hosted a meet-and-greet party with customers who have recently won, purchased and used their Infinix Hot 4 and Infinix Note3 phones, dubbed #UgInfinixHangout at Sky Lounge.

Generally, the hangout gathered these customers who have used the Infinix smartphones to give their opinon of what they liked about the phones and what can be done to prove them. During the discussion session, most of the users said they liked the RAM and Camera more.

As the discussions further went on, the organizers also held games where winners walked away with smart watches. Among some of the questions, Users were asked to each give the full specs for the type of Infinix smartphone they had. They were also asked to compare the Infinix smartphones to other smartphones they had such as; the itel1516 Plus, Samsung J8, to name a few.

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By Prim Kembabazi

Veteran Tanzanian singer Mr. Nice thought he had had a rough 2016 up until the day he was announced dead by the internet.

As Mr Nice tried to make a meaningful comeback onto the music scene, reports emerged that he had contracted a dangerous disease. This on top of being robbed at gunpoint in Eastlands, Nairobi in September.

Generally it was not a rosy last months for him and now this. Speaking about the Social Media death reports, Nice said that he is fine and not sure where the foolish reports are coming from.

He said that he is currently in Kenya doing a music tour. The singer has been in and out of hospital this year spending most of the wealth that he had accumulated over the years on trying to get cured from the unknown disease.

Screen Shot by Humphrey Mayanja

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Honorable D’Ujanga Simon, Minister of State for Energy, together with representatives of Access Power, EREN RE and donors celebrated the inauguration of the solar power plant in Soroti.

Made up of 32,680 photovoltaic panels, the new 10 megawatt facility is the country’s first grid-connected solar plant and will generate clean, low-carbon, sustainable electricity to 40,000 homes, schools and businesses in the area.

The project was developed under the Global Energy Transfer Feed in Tariff (“GET FiT”), a dedicated support scheme for renewable energy projects managed by Germany’s KfW Development Bank in partnership with Uganda’s Electricity Regulatory Agency (ERA) and funded by the governments of Norway, Germany, the United Kingdom and the European Union. The GET FiT programme helps renewable energy sources become more affordable and therefore more accessible in Eastern Africa.

L-R: EU Ambassador Kristian Schmidt, Minister of State for Energy, ERA CEO Ziria Tibalwa, MP Soroti Herbert Ariko, and Access Power Managing Director Vahid Fotuhi commissioning the the solar power plant in Soroti.

The US$19 million Soroti Solar Plant is in part funded by the European Union – Africa Infrastructure Trust Fund through the GET FiT Solar Facility equivalent to 8.7 million euros in the form of result-based premium payments per kWh of delivered electricity.

The project is financed by a mix of debt and equity with the senior debt facility being provided by FMO, the Netherlands Development Bank, and the Emerging Africa Infrastructure Fund (EAIF).

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Uganda’s Minister of State for Energy, Ambassadors from the EU, Germany and the Netherlands, as well as key stakeholders from Access Power and EREN RE; TSK, the contractor who built the plant; FMO and Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG) company The Emerging Africa Infrastructure Fund (EAIF) as financiers, and other key officials.

The H.E. Ambassador Kristian Schmidt, European Union Head of Delegation to Uganda said in his speech: “Uganda is a good place to invest in solar energy. The regulatory framework is conducive and Government rightly recognises Uganda’s energy future must be renewable. It is great that this is now triggering private sector interest in solar power generation. The European Union is proud that our grant contribution ensures the realisation of the Soroti Solar Plant, and I hope this is only just the beginning for many more to come.”

The ERA Chief Executive Officer, Eng. Ziria Tibalwa noted, “that the Access Solar Uganda 10MW grid connected solar P.V project we are launching today is so far the largest in the East African region. We are so proud of this outcome of our stable and favorable regulatory environment that has produced such a leading project in the East African Region. We congratulate Access Solar and the people of Uganda upon this milestone.”

David Corchia, CEO, EREN RE, stated: “Soroti solar plant is an excellent textbook example of how collaboration among key local and international stakeholders can result in the successful execution and completion of such a ground breaking project and in tangible progress in the spread of renewable energy across Africa. We wish to express our gratitude and thanks to the organizations and individuals who made the construction of the largest solar power plant in East Africa possible. As a global renewable energy Independent Power Producer we take this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to the African power sector and we look forward to replicating this model in many other African countries in other districts in Uganda and across the region.”

Reda El Chaar, Executive Chairman, Access Power declared, “We are thrilled to have been given the opportunity to work with our European and Ugandan partners to bring to reality this flagship solar power plant. Soroti raises the bar on what can be achieved through teamwork and we look forward to more collaborative efforts to expand the footprint of clean energy across this mighty continent.”

Cross section of solar pannels in soroti.

Jennie Barugh, Head DFID Uganda on the impact of GET FiT:  “As an outward-looking nation, the UK fully supports Uganda in its effort to become a middle income country, with bilateral support of £110m this year. Power is an important enabler of development. GET FiT has helped to demonstrate the success of private sector led renewable energy projects; reducing costs to the government and increasing supply to help the people of Uganda to improve livelihoods and economic empowerment, especially for women and girls, so they can stand on their own two feet. Uganda has led the way in this sector and we expect other African nations to learn from and build on the successes of GET FiT. The Soroti plant is also one of the eight renewable energy projects in Uganda to have benefited from the UK Aid supported Emerging Africa Infrastructure Fund (EAIF) – part of the multilateral Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG). The UK is committed to supporting and improving the lives of Ugandans – with the vast majority (80%) living without access to clean modern energy – helping Uganda leave aid dependency behind.”

Linda Broekhuizen, CIO of FMO Dutch development bank, underlines the importance of the project: “FMO is a proud supporter of this project. Renewable energy projects like these are fully in line with our aim to positively affect peoples’ lives by supporting development, creating jobs and providing clean and sustainable energy to Uganda.”

Oscar Kang’oro, a Non-Executive Director of the Emerging Africa Infrastructure Fund (EAIF) confirms EAIF’s commitment to supporting solar and small hydro power projects in Uganda: “EAIF is fully engaged in Uganda and to date financed 8 renewable energy projects in the country, including Soroti. I particularly want to congratulate Access and EREN on their vision and enterprise. Our funders at the UK government’s DFID, at The Netherlands DGIS, Switzerland’s SECO and Sweden’s SIDA, see the great benefits that small and renewable generating capacity can bring, particularly in rural and semi-rural areas. This can unlock economic potential, create new economic development opportunities, grow the productivity of public services and improve energy security. Most importantly, the arrival in a district of more dependable and more affordable electricity can transform and enhance the lives of many thousands of men, women and children.”

Located on a 33 acre plot of land in Soroti District, the power plant has the potential to increase its net output capacity by a further 20MW of solar energy. At peak construction the plant had over 120 local workers involved, including engineers recruited and trained by Access Power and EREN RE.

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Huawei Consumer Business Group (Uganda) has today opened doors to its first brand shop and service center in Uganda. The shop managed by a dealer named ‘Kinetic’ is located on Kampala Road, in the middle of the city center giving Huawei device customers’ easy access to its service offerings.

Dong Chengzu, Head of Retail and Marketing Department Huawei Uganda while opening the shop said, “Due to an increase in demand for original Huawei smartphones and devices in Uganda, we saw the need to open up brand shops with service centers fully dedicated to handling matters pertaining to our devices. To this end, today we have officially opened up our first brand shop and service center, with a strategic plan to open up at least 4 shops within the next three months period.”

L-R: Sam Cris Ayo, Device Services Manager Huawei Uganda, Bhishma Dave, Telco Head Mitsumi Distribution, Wang Hua, Vice President Huawei Uganda and Zeng Bin, Country Manager Huawei Uganda cut the ribbon to officially open ‘Kinetic Shop’ Huawei’s first brand and service center in Uganda.

Sam Cris Ayo, Device Service Manager Huawei Uganda said, “The Huawei brand shop promises our customers in Uganda first class quality devices and services. This brand shop and service center will not only be selling original Huawei devices but will also offer after-sales services. The brand shop will be open from 8am till 7pm each day and will be supplemented by a 24 hour 7 days a week free hotline 0800200620.”

In 2012, Huawei became the world’s third-largest smartphone manufacturer and was the first Chinese company to sell more than 100 million mobile phones in one year 2015, with products and services available in more than 170 countries. Huawei continues to develop innovations based on customer needs with an aim of enhancing their experiences and creating maximum value for every single device purchase they make. Huawei is therefore very keen on availing to its customers devices that suit their specific customer preferences.

Chengzu concluded by noting that on top of the newly opened brand shops, Huawei smartphones will still be available several dealer shops to include Nile Communications, Ssimba Telecom, Go Phones, Nile Communication, Fone Express, and Praise Communication.

Huawei Uganda this festive season is rewarding all its customers that buy Huawei smartphones over a 24 Day period with a chance of winning fantastic goodies including 43’ LED FHD Hisense TV screens, Huawei smartphones – Y6II and P7, sports bags, laptop bags, t-shirts among others. This promotion which started on 28th November will end on 25th December 2016.

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MultiChoice Uganda has announced winners of the 2016 DStv Eutelsat Star Awards competition at a prize giving ceremony held at their head offices in Kololo today.

The sixth segment of the science and technology based competition saw Dennis Mitala from St Mary’s College Kisubi as winner of the essay category while Gordon Brian Alemo from the same school as runner up. Seeta High School dominated the poster category with Ronald Musinguzi as overall winner and Edwin Ira merged as runner up.

The DStv Eutelsat Star Awards are a product of a partnership between Eutelsat and MultiChoice Africa which aims to stimulate interest in science and technology and to inspire innovative thinking among secondary and high school students across the continent in 42 countries.

L-R: Gordon Brian Olemo 1st runner up of the Essay competition and Dennis Mitala, winner of the Essay competition both from St. Mary’s College Kisubi pose with Edwin Ira 1st runner up of the Poster competition and Ronald Musinguzi winner of the poster competition both from Seeta High School , with their certificates and prizes at the Eutelsat Star Award event held at MultiChoice Uganda Headoffice in Kololo.

This year students across the continent participated both in writing an essay or designing a poster to portray themselves into the future as scientists and design a new age satellite that will help improve the lives of Africans and depict the different roles and functions the satellite would play in Africa and its future.

During the event, MultiChoice Uganda’s PR & Communications Manager Tina Wamala noted that the DStv Eutelsat Star Awards is a Corporate Social Investment Strategy for the company which is held annually. She said, “MultiChoice understands that to develop and shape today and the future of our generation, technology and science play a vital part that is why we invest in this competition. Our partnership with Eutelsat is passionately based on our common belief that the two fields are great contributors to digitalizing Africa.”

Over 23 schools in Uganda submitted a total number of 165 entries, vetted by a carefully selected panel of judges to determine the winning applicants. The winning essay and poster will enter into the overall Africa awards and represent Uganda at the continental competition where the best overall in both categories will win a trip to Eutelsat offices in Paris, France and onward to witness a rocket launch for the essay winner and a satellite construction site for the poster winner. The overall two runners up for the best essay and poster respectively, will win trips to MultiChoice offices in Johannesburg and the South Africa Space Agency at Hartbeesthoek.

Uganda is no stranger to winning in the continental competition of the DStv Eutelsat Star Awards, producing the runner up poster in 2015, best overall poster winner in 2014, runner up overall poster in 2013, the best overall essay and runner up overall poster in 2012 and best overall essay in 2011.

The panel of judges this time round included; Ms. Sarah Agaba Kabahuma, Frequency Planner at Uganda Communications Commission and head judge for the competition, Mr. Geoffrey Agoi, Principal Broadcasting Engineer, Ministry of Information and Communications Technology, Mr. James Amatre, an English Teacher at Nabisunsa Girls school representing the Ministry of Education, Dr. Roseline Nyongarwizi Akol, Lecturer and Head, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology, Makerere University, Ms. Adrine Twinamatsiko, branches manager of Multichoice Uganda.

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Stanbic Bank Uganda is giving back to society this festive season with a generous donation to homes and orphanages for disabled and vulnerable children. This support comes as part of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility activities which aim to transform lives through supporting the less privileged and vulnerable in society.

The bank will be making their donation to five orphanages and homes. These include: Missionaries of The Poor, Teresa Home, School for the disabled, Butabika and Rahab girls; with a total number of beneficiaries of up to 528 children.

Stanbic Bank’s CE, Patrick Mweheire (L) and the Head CSI Stanbic Bank, Sharon Nassali share cake with disabled children at Missionaries for the poor. 

Today, Stanbic’s Senior Executives and volunteering staff visited Missionaries of the Poor in Kisenyi and Butabika children’s ward in Luzira to make the physical donation of items for the children. The donated items included: Rice, Sugar, Soap, Cooking Oil, a Goat, Biscuits, sweets and a Christmas cake, books and children’s reading materials.

Speaking at the donation handover ceremony, Stanbic Bank’s Chief Executive, Patrick Mweheire said, “We are very pleased to spending time with the children and sharing the joy of giving this Christmas season. We hope that our contribution will be touching the lives of the most vulnerable in our communities and bring smiles to the children during this festive season.”

Stanbic Bank’s CE, Patrick Mweheirwe shakes hands with Father Allan Borais after handing over donations to Missionaries of the poor in Kisenyi.

Stanbic’s total contribution of Ugshs 25,000,000 has been raised as part of the support to the Kampala Christmas Carols Festival which will be taking place on Sunday 18th December at the Kampala Serena, where the less privileged children will be part of the celebrations and will enjoy a Christmas meal and festive cheer.

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Last Friday, sports journalists and bloggers walked home with lots of exciting gifts when telecommunications giant Airtel Uganda gave them an opportunity to participate in the on-going Tulumbe AFCON campaign.

In order to be part of the winning frenzy, the sports reporters were required to subscribe to the recently launched campaign and hit their targets throughout the week.

Michael Nsubuga, a photographer at New Vision, Adrian Mwesigwa a writer at Mushroom Inc. and Ismail Kezaala, a photographer from Daily Monitor won themselves brand new LG flat screen televisions whereas 10 journalists walked away with brand new smart phones.

The Airtel Uganda staff and the media team pose for a group photo with their gifts during ‘Tulumbe AFCON’ media draw.

Airtel Uganda Head of Usage and Retention Ms. Nellie Mwandha, who handed over the first TV screen, congratulated the journalists upon their winning and encouraged them to continue hitting their targets in order to stand a chance to watch the opening AFCON game in Gabon.

“There is a lot more to win during this festive season. All our subscribers have to do is to opt in by dialing *162#, see their target and then recharge and meet these targets,” she said.

To take part in the on-going campaign, Airtel Uganda subscribers will have to opt in by dialing *162#. This will allow them to know their target. They will then be required to recharge and meet their individual target. Upon reaching the targets, subscribers will receive 100% bonus, which, on accumulation, will be rewarded to them as airtime to be used for voice (prepaid), data and SMS.

Draws to reward the lucky winners will be held every Friday; from Friday 9th December 2016 to Friday 13th January 2017. Winners will be contacted by Airtel Uganda via 0752-600- 222.

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By Our Reporter

Renowned Ugandan Hip hop star, The Mith, will be one of the acts at the upcoming Blankets and Wine Kampala  that is slated for this Sunday, 18th December at Lugogo Cricket Oval.

Tom Mayanja aka The Mith aka Mr. So UG, also a member of Hip hop group Klear Kut, is one of the ‘fathers’ of the Hip hop music industry in Uganda. Having been on the music scene for close to twenty years, it is safe to say that The Mith has helped shape the music industry in Uganda, especially the Hip hop genre.

With already two albums to his name; “Destination Africa” and “The Week of September”, The Mith is working on new projects that will include his third album and a collaborative EP.

We caught up with The Mith ahead of the last Blankets and Wine Kampala on Uganda’s 2016 social calendar.

The Mith who believes that there is no ‘perfect song’, says he draws his inspiration from conversations with different people, driving around and generally being observant.

On whether he had any particular Ugandan artists that he wished to work with, The Mith said; “Collaborations are key to staying relevant. So, yes, there are some artists I would love to work with. Sandra Suubi, Michael Kitanda and others out of my genre I am paying attention to, because I do like the music they have been putting out.”

On being asked to describe the Hip hop scene in Uganda, he said; “The Hip hop scene in Uganda is vibrant, exciting and progressive. One could say that the scene is ‘Lit’.”

The Mith who came to the scene with Klear Kut, the group that had the first Ugandan video air on MTV, said that they have never left the scene as group members still make music. In fact, the group has a project in the works.

On his five year plan, The Mith says; “married. Ha!!! Seriously though, there are plans we will unveil real soon, that will put me on the five year plan that we have set up, and y’all will know then.”

Sponsored by Tusker Malt Lager, Blankets and Wine is East Africa’s premier music experience, designed to showcase outstanding musicians in the emerging genres of afro-based music. The 15th edition will be headlined by Tanzania’s top singer Ali Kiba. Other acts will include Jemimah Sanyu, Giovanni Kinying and DJ Naselow.

Entrance fee is 100,000 UGX and gates open at 12:00pm.

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By Staff Writer

The Bayimba Honours recognizes private individuals, artists, families, institutions and companies with a consistent record of philanthropy in support of the arts and culture in Uganda.

Uganda is presently marked by the lack of a significant local financial support base, yet mapped by profound outside support to the different creative multi-disciplinary initiatives across the country.

The Bayimba Honours seeks to gradually encourage and increase the level of giving and contribution to the arts and cultural sector in Uganda by propagating a culture of gratitude through the promotion of those already selflessly supporting the sector while they are still alive, hence establishing a culture of philanthropy in Uganda.

“We are most grateful and congratulate our first three Honourees. We welcome you all to join us in honouring them on the 17th December 2016 as we celebrate their endless efforts,” says Faisal KIWEWA, Director at Bayimba CulturalFoundation.

The event will be graced and headlined by international acclaimed Ugandan musician GEOFFREY ORYEMA who is also celebrating his homecoming after 40 years in exile. EXILE, the first album out of Oryema’s six exclusive albums to date, outed him as a significant African singer/songwriter.

LAND OF ANAKA and YE YE YE are two songs out of this ten-track album that were both hit singles in France. For 8 years, YE YE YE served as a signature tune for a cultural talk show on FRANCE 2, one of the biggest TV channels in France. Up to this day, the song is on the set list and for the first time in history audiences in Kampala will be enjoying the song by the master himself.

Other performances for the night will include:

• Babaluku, born Silas Babaluku Balabyekkubo, a Ugandan rapper, musician, and producer in collaboration with Kampala Symphony Orchestra, orchestrated and to be conducted by Carmela Sinco who also added her own composition of Kampala Scenes, originally composed for piano, now re-arranged for the orchestra.

• Julius Lugaaya, founder of Dance Week Uganda, in a dance performance piece, Giovanni Kremer Kiyingi on the Akogo, Derrick Komakech on guitar, Rashida Namulondo in a poetic performance, and Jude Mugerwa with a musical arrangement production.

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By Staff Writer

On Friday last week at the Kakindu Stadium in Jinja, home side JMC Hippos celebrated their first victory of the season as they defeated six time league winners Express Football Club by 1-0 in a highly contested battle between the two sides.

However, the joy of that victory was short lived as the Red Eagles petitioned the Uganda Premier League secretariat (Ref: ESC/10/16/12 dated 10th October 2016) on Saturday 10th December, 2016 citing that JMC had used ineligible players.

Express stressed that JMC players used provisional licenses which were expired after the set deadline and that the latter should lose the match by forfeiture.

Since then, the UPL secretariat has ruled in favour of Express, awarding them 3 points and 3 goals in the process.

This now takes the Wankulukuku based side and Matia Lule-coached club to 7th place with 22 points, level with a 6th placed URA FC.

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By Staff Writer

B2C’s Delivad Julio has been linked to a couple of city babe before our snoops landing o that special girl he has be en hiding from us for a long time.

After thorough research, we can comfortably say the Tokigeza hit maker and Martina are an item and our sources have it that the two have been secretly bonking for a long time.

The two are dating with no doubt, Julio sometimes picks her from work and they go for lunch together and with time they are planning to move in together. A source told us

Our source also added that Julio is overheard bragging to his crew-mates how he has the hottest girl in the gang

We will keep you posted

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By Our Reporter

Kenyan all-boy band Sauti Sol jetted in this Wednesday afternoon ahead of the Cîroc Frost Party that is happening this Thursday December 15, at Club Guvnor. The party will be a celebration of Guvnor’s sixth anniversary as the country’s premier entertainment spot.

“We are excited to be in Kampala again. It’s the festive season so prepare your dancing shoes,” the hit makers behind songs like Nerea, Live and Die in Afrika, Unconditionally Bae and Africa said on arrival at Entebbe Airport.

The Cîroc-sponsored party will kickoff at 9pm and will feature red carpet moments, with guests enjoying a range of Cîroc cocktails on arrival. Party-goers attending the event will also enjoy photo moments on the red carpet while a list of Guvnor’s experienced deejays will keep everyone on their feet before and after the performance by the Sauti Sol.

“Cîroc is for the drink for all celebratory moments. It is the drink for those living their dream. It leads the way in luxury and iconic celebration and we believe Guvnor, patronized by high achievers, is East Africa’s prime destination for luxury and entertainment,” said Ms. Annet Nakiyaga, UBL Luxury Manager-Diageo Reserve.

Entrance to the party is Shs50,000 and tickets are already on sale at Club Guvnor.

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At least 1500 people in Kampala will benefit from an annual dental awareness camp sponsored by the National Social Security Fund, in partnership with the Rotary Club of Kampala North and the Makerere University Dental School.

The camp started on Monday, 12th December and will run until Friday 16th December 2016 at the Dental School in Mulago.

Dr.Annet Kutesa, a Senior lecturer at Makerere University, Barbra Arimi Head of Marketing and Communication NSSF, Margaret Nakajanko, President Rotary Kampala North at the Press Launch of the Dental Camp.

Speaking at the launch, the Deputy Principle of the College of Health Sciences Makerere, Dr. Isaac Okullo, said, “The Dental School is grateful to the Rotary Club for having spearheaded the refurbishment of the teaching facility worth millions of shillings since 2007. This facility led to the idea of the dental camp as a way of giving back to the community through more advanced dental services other than the usual emergency treatment carried out at outreach programmes. Research from the Mulago Dental School indicates that at least 90 per cent of Ugandans are suffering from the effects of poor oral hygiene.”

“We are grateful to the National Social Security Fund for the sponsorship of this camp as it provides an opportunity for many disadvantaged individuals to get free treatment and consultations,” Dr Okullo added.

The Dental Camp will comprise a series of community dental health outreach activities aimed at providing free dental services to those who cannot afford it, mainly in Kamwokya, Kyebando, Bwaise, Kawaala, Mulago, Kivulu, Katanda, and Kaleerwe and surroundin areas.

Barbra Arimi, the Head of Marketing and Communications, NSSF, said, “It’s our endeavour to improve the quality of life of our communities through the various health care initiatives we undertake from time to time. We are delighted with the positive response received from the past dental camps and we shall continue to undertake such initiatives in the future and contribute to the well-being of the communities.”

Over the last five years, the Fund has supported the Dental Camp, which has contributed to treatment of over 5,000 underprivileged people.

Dental treatment and health promotion services, according to Dr Okullo, will be provided by doctors from Mulago Hospital, Makerere University College of Health Sciences and other volunteer doctors from around Kampala. The camp is held in Mulago because of the facilities and high profile doctors available to offer the service.

The free services provided are screening, filling, tooth decay extraction, oral education among others.

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By Our Reporter

Celebrated folk singer-songwriter and Afro-fusion multi-instrumentalist, Giovanni Kiyingi, will be returning for the 15th Edition of Blankets and Wine that will take place at Lugogo Cricket Oval this Sunday, 18th December.

Considered to be the biggest quarterly event on Uganda’s social calendar, the Tusker Malt Lager sponsored event and organised by House of Deejays, will be playing host to some of Uganda’s top socialites as well as consumers of Tusker Malt as they’re entertained by a variety of artists headlined by Tanzania’s number one artist, Ali Kiba.

In an effort to deliver on their promise of 100% awesome musical experiences, and due to public demand, Tusker Malt Lager and House of Deejays will be bringing back Giovanni Kiyingi for the 15th edition of Blankets and Wine Kampala.

Giovanni who performed at the previous edition was a crowd favorite and will be returning to showcase his talent come this Sunday. We caught up with the ‘Amakondeere’ star for an interview ahead of this week’s event.

Qn: What inspired Giovanni to start singing and playing all the various instruments?

As I was growing up, the church choir inspired me. My music journey started in Kiboga deep in the village called Vumba parish. I used go to church early in the morning and get a front row chair to enjoy the church choir which played music with traditional instruments.

Qn: What would you describe your music as?

My music is a fusion of my Ugandan roots and the influence of the worlds’ music.

Qn: What inspired your ‘Amakondeere’ album?

My Amakondeere album was inspired by the sound I wanted to put out and also many other various rhythm patterns.

Qn: What are some of your most memorable stage performances?

The one that stands out is when I performed for the Pope in 2015 at Kololo Airstrip Grounds with a full band on the song themed “New Day”. Then this year, I shared a stage with Michael kiwanuka at a festival in Belgium.

Qn: Are there any particular Ugandan artists you would wish to work with?

Yes there are quite a number of them. Cindy, Irene Ntale, Maurice Kirya, Sammy Kasule, Julian Kanyomozi, Irene Namubiru.

Qn: What is the funniest thing that has ever happened to you while performing on stage?

This one time, I did sound checking on stage and I was ready to play. On coming back to the stage, my guitar could not sound. I had left my battery running.

Qn: Are there any projects in the works that we should look out for?

Yes. The official Amakondeere release will be happening real soon and I plan to release two new albums “Mkatiko W’afirika” and “Kitengejja”.

Qn: What advice would you give to a young upcoming artist?

Hard working is the song everywhere I go. But for upcoming artists in Uganda and East Africa, I would say we need to look into identity in sound now. How different you sound opens new markets all over because always the world is looking for something new! And East Africa’s sound is still virgin to the world.

Qn: What memories do you hold from your debut Blankets and Wine performance?

My debut at Blankets and Wine was rather interesting and fun. I remember I performed when it was raining and the stage had some water on it. But the highlight is how my friends and revelers kept on dancing in the rain. Even though it was raining, the sound was good and we just had fun.

Qn: This will be your second performance at Blankets and Wine Kampala. What should people expect from you?

People should come and we have a good time and continue from where we stopped the other time. With me it is a groove throughout the concert. Don’t miss it. Let us end the year with a bang!!!

A quarterly, picnic style music festival, Blankets and Wine is East Africa’s premier music experience, designed to showcase outstanding musicians in the emerging genres of afro-based music.

Entrance fee is 100,000 UGX at the Lugogo Cricket Oval and gates open at 12:00pm.

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In line with its policy of shared values among communities, Eskom Uganda has embarked on a facelift project that will give a whole new look to the currently dilapidated Njeru Primary School, a government school under the Ministry of Education and Sports started in 1960.

The School was previously located in the present day Nalubaale power station and it was displaced to pave way for construction of the then Owen falls dam and transferred to Njeru village, where its presently location.

The School is currently dilapidated with broken windows and roofed with asbestos roofing materials which is said to be a Health risk for the pupils.

Eskom Uganda, the generating company running the Nalubale and Kiira power stations has now come out to reinstate the lost glory of the School which faded away with the reduced number of children currently standing at 400, by injecting110 million Uganda shillings, to cover the renovation works which shall in the first phase include, replacement of the asbestos roofing material with iron sheets, replacement of the damaged window glasses, painting of both the interior and exterior surfaces and replacement of the doors and locks.

Eskom Uganda Managing Director Thozama Gangi (3rd Left) and Technical Director Mohammed Mahsen (Extreme left) in a group picture with Njeru Municipal council officials after a stakeholder engagement meeting at Eskom offices in Jinja.

Speaking during an engagement meeting with the Njeru municipal council executive officials at Eskom offices today, the Managing Director Eskom Uganda, Thozama Gangi noted that the first phase of the renovation is expected to be completed by 31 st January 2017 before the beginning of the new term. She said that the second phase will include installation of proper electricity supply, water harvesting, renovation of staff housing and a computer lab. “We are in a changing world with fast moving technology we should not live the children behind. We are looking for partners who will join us to create a conducive environment for the children in Njeru primary school,” said Thozama.

She further said that Eskom is willing to help the parents by finding innovative ways to utilize the available land so that they may be able to feed their children hence motivating them.

The Chairman of the school board Pastor Fred Kiwanuka said that the idea by Eskom to give Njeru Primary School a face lift will not only change the School, but the entire Education system in Njeru.

“We welcome this humanitarian initiative that Eskom is implementing in our community. Indeed, Eskom has always been here for the community whenever we need their intervention. This spirit of giving as being demonstrated by Eskom should be emulated by other companies around us”, he said.

In line with its policy of shared values under its CSR program, Eskom MD will also meet with Jinja Municipality Mayor Majid Batambuze to explore areas of intervention in 2017. Currently, Eskom together with Hon. Moses Balyeko have embarked on a project to upgrade Kimaka Health centre.

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As the festive season draws closer DStv and GOtv subscribers will now have an opportunity to purchase DStv and GOtv products at massive discounts on Jumia Market. The Zapper full kit is reduced down to UGX 115,000 compared to the retail price of UGX 130,000. Explora Decoders will be sold at UGX 254,000 from the retail offer of UGX 277,000 and the Explora full kit is reduced from UGX 389,000 to UGX 379,000 and GOtv at 85,500 shillings only.

Charles Hamya, General Manager MultiChoice Uganda stated, “This is the season for merry making and we understand that Christmas is a time for togetherness. Our offer through the Jumia’s online marketplace is to enable customers to enjoy our world class offers at a massive reduction. We want all our potential customers to be immersed in the world of entertainment through our brand and channel offering which is why we have launched this campaign.”

The Zapper Decoder full kit includes one month on compact. The compact package has recently been enhanced with six new channels on the package including ROK, EVA+, ITV, TCM, B4U Movies, SuperSport 4. After the one month expires customers can continue enjoying this exciting bouquet at UGX 121,600 subscription per month.

Stacey Mwesezi, Jumia Market’s Marketing Manager added that “Jumia Market is Uganda’s largest online marketplace. We receive orders for all kinds of products during the festive season, as spending power increases. However, economically, it has been a tough year for many – and so we want our customers to enjoy the products they desire at more affordable prices. I urge our customers to take advantage of these offers while they can.”

The DStv and GOtv discounts are only available on Jumia Market (www.jumia.ug or via the Jumia Market mobile app), the products will be sold at the prevailing retail price through other outlets. The campaign ends on 31st December 2016.

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Meet Cathy Muwumuza, one of the winners of the Vodafone #ICreateTomorrow competition, we sat with her to find our about her London trip, what she learnt and how the trip will change her life.

Tell us a bit about yourself and how you ended up taking part of the #ICreateTomorrow competition?

I’m Namubiru Cathy Muwumuza. A healthcare administrator currently working at Ray of Hope Medical Centres. My young sister told me about the competition and she also went ahead and recorded the video that I submitted. I didn’t expect to win as most times such competitions favour youths in the creative industry.

Tell us about your experience in London, what did you do whilst you were out there?

The trip to London was a great experience for me. I met people in my healthcare field that are using technology to positively impact and improve health services in UK. It was a trip full of inspiration for me.

What was the highlight of your trip?

Attending the giant health event that had exhibitions of technology advances in the medical field.

What did you learn whilst you were there?

Talking to Ronald HR Director of Vodafone global, I learnt that any great thing has to be done in small steps.

What was your ‘tomorrow’ before you went out there and did that change at all during the trip?

My tomorrow before the trip was to one day be in position to make policies and decisions that will help improve the state of healthcare in Uganda, the trip to London showed me that I don’t have to be at the helm of the sector to make a positively impact healthcare in Uganda but instead I can use technology to improve the state of medical services here.

What happens next – what will you differently from before?

I am also currently looking at two ideas for tech solutions to improve Ugandan healthcare. Vodafone is going to support me through an incubator that can help me crystallise my ideas into a tangible plan and give me the connections to start making that dream a reality. I will also stop procrastinating.

What have the reactions of others been since your return?

That was an awesome opportunity you got.

What has Vodafone’s role been throughout the experience and how do you feel about the company?

Vodafone put in place quite a unique competition that is doing what it says “helping us create our tomorrow”. I now view the company as one that connects with its environment and is aiming at making a difference in our community.

What are your thoughts on the future of Uganda and what young entrepreneurs can do to make a difference?

The future for Uganda is great. If the youths are empowered to participate in building the nation, Uganda will be able to go from third world to first. More companies need to also come up and empower the youths just like what Vodafone is doing.

What advice would you give to others about creating their tomorrow?

Do not underestimate small beginnings and always take opportunities that will make you grow.

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Michael Kiwanuka. Wikipedia Image

Sometimes, it just takes one song from an important artist to inspire someone to follow his or her dreams and make it big. Often, it’s a legendary musician’s stature that can influence a person to break the mold and create a path of his or her own. Take singer-songwriter Michael Kiwanuka, for instance.

Born of Ugandan parents who migrated to the United Kingdom in the ‘80s, Michael Kiwanuka knew at an early age that he was something special, a cut above the rest as an artist. It was during his youth in the north London suburb of Muswell Hill where he discovered the name Jimi Hendrix on a printed shirt.

Back then, Kiwanuka thought that Hendrix was a typical Caucasian guitarist who head banged his way to stardom and performed mind numbing punk riffs on his weapon of choice night in and night out. To his surprise, the aspiring musician found out quite the opposite of his initial perception after watching a television documentary about the life and music of Jimi Hendrix.

From here, Michael Kiwanuka not only got inspired to practice the acoustic guitar at home, during his free time from school, he also started delving deep in search of other black artists creating the type of music that appealed to him. Soon, aside from Hendrix, the young Michael came across the likes of Curtis Mayfield, Richie Havens, and Sly & the Family Stone. These artists spoke to his soul by playing unplugged folk and soulful tunes on the guitar.

Fast-forward a number of years later, Kiwanuka began performing professionally as a session guitarist for a bunch of rappers and R&B singers. Soon after, he developed the urge to blaze his own trail and show the world his artistry. He rediscovered his love for music by rummaging through timeless records, stumbling upon an old Jimi Hendrix album in the process. This, in a way, injected new blood to his music career.

In essence, it shouldn’t come as a shock that Jimi Hendrix can affect the lives of people, years, even decades, after his death. The iconic musician’s charisma is even evident in different platforms outside the music industry. He has a murder-mystery game by AGS, as well as a digital slot machine variant on Spin Genie simply entitled ‘Jimi Hendrix Online Slots’. So if Hendrix can influence the likes of video and online games, what more can he do to ambitious musicians such as Michael Kiwanuka?

Altogether, this further proves that often, all it takes is just one inspiration to change someone’s life for the better. For Michael Kiwanuka, it’s Jimi Hendrix and how he broke barriers to become the artist millions of people admire up to this day. To find out more about Michael Kiwanuka and his latest album ‘Love & Hate’, be sure to check out Alexis Petridis’ review on The Guardian.

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