Mzee Asingwire

Zarinah Hassan, popularly known as Zari, took to the internet to defend her husband, Shakib Lutaaya, after netizens mocked his English-speaking skills ahead of the third season of Netflix’s all-African stars reality show Young, Famous &amp; African, in which he features.

In a video shared online, <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ug/articles/entertainment/celebrities/zari-shakib-fight-again-over-diamond-platnumz-birthday-visit-2024090308072232963">Zari</a> appeared to acknowledge that Shakib’s English may not be perfect but emphasised his other admirable qualities.

She said: "Oh, we cannot wait to see Shakib’s English. Let’s talk about the English... let’s talk about it! Let me tell you something—it’s been a winning season for my husband. My husband bagged me—winning season for him. My husband is going to be on Netflix. You, with your English, your literature, your accent, your everything—honey, look at you! My husband is going to be on the biggest platform in the whole world—Netflix. And here you are discussing his English. See your life!

"It’s winning season for my husband. You don’t know... he’s winning at everything. And from Netflix, obviously, bigger deals are coming. Who knows? My husband might even surpass me and go to Hollywood. You and your English, honey! Never mind Shakib—he’s winning. Ladies and gentlemen, Shakib is winning, and I’m so happy for him. I’ve never loved someone so much."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Zari responds to critics talking about her husband, Shakib’s English skills <a href="https://t.co/NllUDoIY2T">pic.twitter.com/NllUDoIY2T</a>&mdash; BigEyeUG (@BigEyeUG) <a href="https://twitter.com/BigEyeUG/status/1876990779882693104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Zari also pointed out that many of the<a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ug/articles/entertainment/celebrities/zari-hassan-reveals-the-benefits-of-not-living-with-her-husband-shakib-lutaaya-2024073113433496245"> same people mocking Shakib </a>are now admiring him, despite initially ridiculing their relationship. She remarked: "I see you all starting to fall in love with my husband now because he’s the guy—yet you mocked us at the beginning, saying that’s all I could get!"

The third season of <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ug/articles/lifestyle/zari-being-a-meme-in-new-season-of-young-famous-and-african-2024073109201770282">Young, Famous &amp; African </a>premieres on January 17 and introduces new cast members, including award-winning fashion and lifestyle content creator Kefilwe Mabote and Nollywood actress Ini Edo.

Returning cast members include Zarinah herself, Khanyi Mbau, Nadia Nakai, Annie Macaulay-Idibia, Luis Manana, Swanky Jerry, Naked DJ, Kayleigh Schwark, and Diamond Platnumz.

Businesswoman Zari Hassan with her husband Shakib Lutaaya

Zarinah Hassan, popularly known as Zari, took to the internet to defend her husband, Shakib Lutaaya, after netizens mocked his English-speaking skills ahead of the third season of Netflix’s all-African stars reality show Young, Famous & African, in which he features.

Zari defends Shakib’s english ahead of Netflix’s Young, Famous & African

In a media interview, Kanyomozi was asked if she remembers about collaborating with the singer-turned-politician.

"Those songs made us popular in the whole region, not only Uganda," she said. "But as you know, you grow old and pick interest in different things.&nbsp;He is in politics. I'm in music."

Asked if there is a possibility of them ever working on another music project together, she said: "You know never know. But Bobi Wine is now very busy. I don't think he has time for that anymore. I don't think so."

Juliana Kanyomozi and Bobi Wine's<a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/music/the-collabo-that-gave-juliana-kanyomozi-that-big-break/4q7nfr3"> first collaboration was Tata W’abaana and as she has said before, it opened her doors into the mainstream music industry</a>. Her first songs had been sung in Luganda and while in good, they hadn’t become massive hits like this duet did. They also joined efforts on Maama Mbire, which was hugely successful.

Asked to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2024/feb/27/oscar-nomination-film-opposition-leader-robert-kyagulanyi-bobi-wine-the-peoples-president-uganda-yoweri-museveni">comment on some of the recent big moves Wine has made</a>, Kanyomozi responded: "As a person, I love how he has always lived his life... He was a dreamer, a big dreamer. When he would tell you things he planned to do, you'd see that they are big... He believes in big things, so I'm not surprised seeing where he has reached. And we are all happy for him."

The two have been friends for many years and when Wine, real name<a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/celebrities/bobi-wine-now-fears-women-because-of-politics-says-chameleone/670sx0q"> Robert Kyagulanyi, decided to join active politics, </a>Kanyomozi<a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/celebrities/be-careful-julianas-advice-to-bobi-wine-when-he-was-joining-politics/92yldke"> was among friends who offered advice.</a>

Wine in 2017 surprised many when he ditched his widely successful music career to run as Kyadondo County East constituency Member of Parliament (MP) during a by-election that pitted him against two seasoned candidates – Sitenda Sebalu of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party and Apollo Kantinti of Forum for Democratic Change (FDC).

In 2021, he took it further and ran in the presidential elections on the back of a volatile political career. He lost. <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/celebrities/bobi-wines-son-says-he-wants-to-join-the-army/44w80eb">Bobi Wine</a> is the current president of the National Unity Platform, now the strongest opposition party.

Juliana Kanyomozi and Bobi Wine's first collaboration was Tata W’abaana and as she has said before, it opened her doors into the mainstream music industry.

Bobi Wine is too busy to do another song with me - Juliana Kanyomozi

Reports indicate that the shows dubbed Legend in Gold Sauti Ya Simba will go for $100 (about UShs390K) and they will be held on August 30 and 31.

His last concert dubbed Ggwanga Mujje was held at Lugogo Cricket Oval on February 24, 2023 and revelers were left yearning for more.

As early as 4:00 p.m., thousands of fans had thronged the concert venue, Lugogo Cricket Oval.

People from all walks of life, the rich, poor, young, and old were seen lining up for entrance confirming <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/music/gravity-says-he-has-no-time-for-sensible-music-leaks-the-genius-of-chameleone/6kx7hn7">Jose Chameleon’s appeal across generations</a> and social strata.

Lugogo Cricket Oval had for long been a subject of debate mostly as a measurement for an artist’s appeal to the mass audience.

LIST: <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/music/top-song-collaborations-between-uganda-and-kenyan-artistes/3256j1c">Top song collaborations between Ugandan and Kenyan artistes</a>

One would say that concert silenced critics and put to rest the Greatest of All Time (G.O.A.T) debate given not only the impact he has had over the years but also the huge numbers of people who turned up last night after 25 years of rocking airwaves.

Fenon Events did the magic to make the concert successful with an eye-catching stage, good sound, and lighting, thus helping the legendary musician make a mark last night.

Fans were visibly thrilled when Chameleon made his signature roar even before stepping on the stage.

From his huge 301 music catalog, he started the show with 'Wale Wale' at exactly 9:20 p.m. which was followed by 'Kipepeo'.

Chameleone went on to perform other songs such as Kuma Obwesigwa, Mama Mia, Dorotia, Valu Valu, Badilisha, Sanyu Lyange, Mambo Bado, Forever, Gime Gime, Katupakase and Befuula among others.

READ: <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/music/top-song-collaborations-between-ugandan-and-tanzanian-artistes/dthpx0m">Top song collaborations between Ugandan &amp; Tanzanian artistes</a>

One of the biggest highlights of the concert was when he was treated to a surprise video message from his children who currently reside in Minnesota, United States of America.

Jose Chameleone confirmed that he will hold a two-day concert in 2024 at the Kampala Serena Hotel.

Jose Chameleone confirms 2-day concert in 2024

"That doesn't mean that we're buddies and we hug," Sanyu, who said she had no issues with Karungi, responded when she was asked if they were now close.

"Me and her, we look at life differently. And there is no way we can connect at that level. But that is no problem... She has no problem with me and I also don't have any problem with her... We are just very different people."

The songstresses, who mostly go by Cindy and Sheebah respectively, <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/cindy-sheebah-battle-impresses-as-public-crowns-winner/qevhxg2">cashed in on their long-held beef in a music showdown</a> put together by Victoria University in 2023.

It was <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/cindy-sheebah-battle-impresses-as-public-crowns-winner/qevhxg2">plausibly the music show of the year</a>, and perhaps one for posterity as the battle lived up to every bit of expectation.

Following weeks of hype, crossfire commentary, and even a fully-fledged televised debate, the two ladies knew they had to give their all at show time at the Kololo Independence Grounds, and that they did.

Sheebah was up first, and she had quite the entry. Carried on stage by shirtless men, and dressed in a sparkling white giant coat along with a big entourage of dancers, she got the night going with her 2016 hit ‘Kisasi Kimu.’

Cindy went with a more mundane entry with her song ‘Party’ but was to go on and carry the night as the show climax seemed to suggest.

Even the hundreds of thousands that tuned in on television and online were in agreement as they took to social media through the night to crown the former Blu*3 as the undisputed champion.

“Cindy is better than Tiwa Savage and Rihanna combined,” <a href="https://twitter.com/KakwenzaRukira/status/1702788129663373662">suggested </a>Ugandan writer Kakwenza Rukirabasaija, while Sanyuka TV presenter Anatalia Ozzy <a href="https://twitter.com/AnnataliaO/status/1702782515616882827">shared</a>, “I hate taking sides by Cindy (is fire).”

Sheila Gashumba <a href="https://twitter.com/SheilahGashumba/status/1702675014716211266">said</a> it was time for Cindy to reunite with her former Blu*3 bandmates, while comedian Maulana <a href="https://twitter.com/maulanareign256/status/1702763172023685204">issued</a> an “apology to all Nokia users.”

Even Sheebah during her performance appeared to embrace the “second best” moniker, telling revelers; “I would rather be a hustler than be talented with no achievements.”

Several online polls in the aftermath of the show also put Cindy ahead including our own which had her at 65%.

Most of the industry's top shots such as Jose Chameleone, Mesach Semakula, and others resisted taking sides, while others such as Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago and Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa <a href="https://twitter.com/Thomas_Tayebwa/status/1702808080939921593">declared it a draw</a>.

Cindy Sanyu said her relationship with Sheebah Karungi remained the way it was after the musical battle.

I don't have a problem with Sheebah but it doesn't mean we can hug - Cindy

They are phones, cells, batteries, chemicals, firearms, alcohol, cigarettes, dangerous weapons, canned foods, canned drinks, pocket radios, bottled drinks, cameras, and backpacks.

Makerere University’s 74th graduation ceremonies will start Monday, January 29, and end on February 24 at the Freedom Square.

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mak74thGrad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mak74thGrad</a> 📌Prohibited Items at the 74th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University. Dear Graduands &amp; invited Guests, please take note of this important message. <a href="https://twitter.com/Makerere?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Makerere</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MakEndowmentFnd?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MakEndowmentFnd</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialMubs?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OfficialMubs</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MakerereNews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MakerereNews</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mak_alumn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mak_alumn</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DICTSMakerere?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DICTSMakerere</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MakGuild?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MakGuild</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/26guild?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@26guild</a> <a href="https://t.co/FbkwA5hlOY">pic.twitter.com/FbkwA5hlOY</a>&mdash; Academic Registrar&#39;s Office -Makerere University (@MakerereAR) <a href="https://twitter.com/MakerereAR/status/1751246852240875775?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
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According to the academic registrar Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, the dates for different colleges/schools are as follows:

Monday, January 29, 2024

College of Natural Sciences (CONAS)

Tuesday, January 30, 2024

College of Education and External Studies (CEES)

College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES)

Wednesday, January 31, 2024

College of Business and Management Sciences (COBAMS)

College of Computing and Information Sciences (COCIS)

College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio-Security (COVAB)

Thursday, February 1, 2024

Makerere University Business School (MUBS)

Friday, February 2, 2024

College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT)

College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS)

VIDEO: <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/local/amb-solomon-karanja-narrates-exciting-makerere-university-nightlife-with-mwai-kibaki/b4srnxt">Friend narrates how Kibaki avoided hangovers as a lecturer in Makerere</a>

Makerere University rescheduled the 74th graduation ceremony, which was originally to take place from January 22- 26. In a statement dated December 15, 2023, the university Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe said: “After consultations with key stakeholders, as chairperson of the senate, I am rescheduling the 74th graduation ceremony to commence on Monday, January 29, 2024, and end on February 2, 2024.”

He added: “Please make unnecessary arrangements accordingly.”

The changes in dates followed concerns raised by various colleges and stakeholders of the university on their readiness to hold the graduation.

It is also reported that the graduation could have been extended to allow students to clear their outstanding fees.

Over 10,000 students are expected to graduate in different programs at the university.

Makerere University is holding its 74th graduation starting on Monday, January 29

Makerere University announced items that won't be allowed during the 74th graduation ceremony.

Makerere prohibits cameras, phones during 74th graduation ceremony

Below are some of those songs, but before that, you can also read about duets between <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/music/top-song-collaborations-between-uganda-and-kenyan-artistes/3256j1c">Ugandans and Kenyans </a>and those with <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/music/top-song-collaborations-between-ugandan-and-rwandan-artistes/8d6swl9">Rwandans</a> and <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/music/when-ugandan-nigerian-singers-hit-studio-for-duets/zv7fnzl">Nigerians.</a>

Harmonize has probably done the highest number of hit collaborations with Ugandan singers. His song with Eddy Kenzo titled Inabana, which was released in 2019, has 4.1 million views on YouTube. Kokonya, on which he teamed up with Spice Diana, has 3.6 million views, and it was produced by Nessim and Daddy Andre, with a video shot by Hanscana in Tanzania.

His duet with Sheebah Karungi titled Follow Me was released in the same year as that of Kenzo and it has 1.8 million views, with a video shot by Sasha Vybz. The most recent collaboration is Champion, on which he features Fik Fameica and it has 1 million views. It was released in 2022.

Bushoke teamed up with Juliana Kanyomozi to release Usiende Mbali, Jose Chameleone featured him on Mama Rhoda, and with Vampino, they did Bingili Dance.

Professor Jay featured Jose Chameleone on Ndivyo Sivyo and Henry Kiwuwa, the brother of Steve Jean (whose studio was used to record Usiende Mbali) -- produced the song.

Nasema Nao brought together Chameleone and AY, who also has a song with Maurice Kirya titled Binadamu.

Spice Diana's relationship with Diamond Platnumz has earned her two collaborations with artistes from his record label Wasafi. In 2021, she released Upendo (featuring Zuchu), which has fetched 2.3 million views and she also featured on Mbosso's Yes which has since racked up 9 million views on YouTube.

Nielewe brought together Vanessa Mdee and Navio, who also hit the studio with Mr. Blue to release Ayaya.

Wasafi in-house producer <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/music/ayo-lizer-wasafi-producer-whos-recorded-big-songs-for-ugandan-artistes/fd84s4j">Ayo Lizer</a> has produced songs for Ugandan singers, hitting the studio with Azawi to record Party Mood, Big Eye (Mikono Juu), and Vinka (Thank God).

Bushoke teamed up with Juliana Kanyomozi to release Usiende Mbali, Jose Chameleone featured him on Mama Rhoda, and with Vampino, they did Bingili Dance

Top song collaborations between Ugandan and Tanzanian artistes

He said Somalia could learn crucial leadership lessons from the NRM, which successfully united a failed and divided state. “I think Somalia should form a students' Movement like the one we started in the 1960s. We as students saw the need for integration intellectually at that time without any influence from the business groups whatsoever,” he said.

The President emphasised the importance of intellectual perception, citing historical figures like Julius Nyerere and Tom Mboya, who championed the East African Federation without succumbing to external pressures.

Reflecting on his experience in training Somali soldiers at Lake Albert, President Museveni highlighted the need for motivated individuals driven by intellectual identity rather than financial gains.

“When we were training Somali soldiers at Lake Albert," he said, "I inquired and was told that some students had come back from London to join, so you get those types of people who are now motivated by the identity of Somalia intellectually not because they are making money and let them be part of the movement that is ideologically driven.”

Furthermore, President Museveni emphasised the role of empowered Somali youth in defending their country both militarily and ideologically.

He also underlined the importance of patriotism and Pan-Africanism as driving forces for national unity and development.

Ambassador Muhika expressed gratitude towards President Museveni for the guidance and affirmed that Somalia is already contemplating the establishment of a students' movement.

Highlighting the potential contribution of Somalis who have studied in Uganda, Ambassador Muhika expressed optimism about their involvement in the initiative.

“There is a good number of ex-students in Somalia who have studied from Uganda; at Islamic University, Makerere University, and others. We can therefore consider using them for this good cause,” he said.

The discussion between the two parties also encompassed diplomatic and political consultations, defence and trade cooperation; signaling a collaborative effort to foster growth and stability in both countries.

It should be noted that Somalia was last year admitted to the East African Community, making it the eighth member of the bloc.

President Yoweri Museveni met Uganda’s Ambassador to Somalia, Prof. Sam Tulya-Muhika at State House, Entebbe

President Yoweri Museveni said Somalia could learn crucial leadership lessons from the NRM, which successfully united a failed and divided state.

Museveni advises Somalia to emulate NRM's ideology on prosperity, security

Before Uganda had enough producers and modern studios, <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/celebrities/he-went-to-nairobi-because-we-tormented-him-chameleones-mother/fdjgxdm">musicians used to travel to Kenya to record their songs.</a>

Ugandan music legends like Sammy Kasule, Elly Wamala, Kabuye Semboga, Paul Kafeero, Tony Senkebejje,&nbsp;Billy Mbowa Kawoya, Sammy Kawuma, Jose Chameleone, and Bebe Cool recorded some of their big projects from Kenya.

In fact, for Chameleone, his music career was launched from Nairobi, where he <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/music/funtula-how-bebe-used-bobi-to-fight-chameleone-con-tony-houls/5m0sn3p">also met Dorotia who would fund his initial projects and also give him a daughter.</a>

The 'Badilisha' hitmaker had gone to Kenya at the invitation of Kalamashaka, the Kenyan hip-hop group that wanted to record a song with him and later flaked.

Luckily for him, he teamed up with Bebe Cool, who was already established in Nairobi, and they started recording songs with the help of Ogopa Deejays.

When they fell out, Cool teamed up with Wyre and Nazizi to form the East African Bashment Crew under which they record hits like 'Kube', 'This Tune', 'Fire Anthem' (which was produced by Magic Washington and Tony Houls) and 'Combination' (featuring Peter Miles and Menshan).

Chameleone's collabo with Redsan was recorded by Ogopa Deejays, who also produced his breakout song Mama Mia and Njo Kalibu.

Ogopa Deejays also made the beats for Peter Miles' breakout song 'One Time' (featuring Menshan) and Bebe Cool’s Fitina album.

Other notable collaborations are:-

<ol><li>Cindy and Dufla Diligon for 'Tempo Remix'</li><li>Azawi and Bensoul - 'Elevated'</li><li>Sauti Sol and Azawi - 'Njagala Vibe'</li><li>Bebe Cool and Sauti Sol - 'Mbozi za Malwa'</li><li>DJ Shiru and Redsan - 'Don't Sweat It'</li><li>Karole Kasita and Arrow Bwoy - 'You'</li><li>Jackie Chandiru and Arrow Bwoy - 'The One'</li><li>Arrow Bwoy and Voltage Music - 'Lover Man'</li><li>Nameless and Blu3 - 'Prisoner'</li><li>Amani and Goodyfe - 'Kiboko'</li><li>Wyre and Voltage Music - 'Pull Up Remix'</li><li>Mbuzi Gang with John Blaq &amp; Felista Di Superstar - 'Shamra Shamra Remix'</li></ol>

Chameleone teamed up with Bebe Cool, who was already established in Nairobi, and they started recording songs with the help of Ogoopa Deejays

Top song collaborations between Ugandan and Kenyan artistes

"I believe that [the] music that I create most of the time is timeless," said Mbabazi, explaining why she's not as prolific as some of her fans and critics would expect her to be during the latest episode of Tusker Malt Conversessions.

According to her, the kind of music she does can always blow up at any time.

"It doesn't matter what time my music takes," she said. "It's always going to have the effect it has to have."

She gave an example of her song Dagala which suddenly gained momentum on TikTok recently.

"Guess what? Dagala was recorded in 2012 at Swangz Avenue, so I believe in creating timeless music, and also creating music as an artist when you are ready."

The third episode of Tusker Malt Conversessions went live on Sunday evening, January 7 and it delves deep into who and what exactly defines Lilian Mbabazi.

In a soul-baring conversation that spans 42 minutes, the Vitamin hitmaker courageously shares her journey, highlighting the challenges she faced and the transformative power of taking a break.

Speaking more on why she had taken a break from music, she said: "I took a break because I was going through an emotional stage. I didn't think I had the energy to do the kind of music I wanted to do."

Lilian Mbabazi in 2017 left Uganda to live in Rwanda for a while because a lot of challenging things were happening.

She openly discusses her decision to escape to Rwanda, emphasising the importance of rejuvenating her mental health and reconnecting with herself in order to bring out the best of her craft.

The show, a platform for genuine and unfiltered conversations, will leave a profound impact on viewers and fans alike, evoking a myriad of emotions throughout its duration.

Roy Tumwizere, the Tusker Malt brand manager, shared his excitement about the episode, stating; "Entering the new year with lovely sounds and tunes from Lilian Mbabazi is truly a delight. The Tusker Malt Conversessions is the brand’s way of creating meaningful connections with our consumers through a unique music experience. In short, it exemplifies our commitment to those who appreciate the depth of music and a finely crafted beer."

Episode Four is set to grace the YouTube channels at the beginning of February and the latest episode and the past ones can be watched on the channels of Swangz Avenue and Tusker Malt.

The episode went live on Sunday evening and it delves deep into who and what exactly defines Lilian Mbabazi.

I believe most of my songs are timeless - Lilian Mbabazi

Her 2023 hit single 'Bailando', which was produced by Andre on the Beat, <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/music/the-artistes-behind-3-most-viewed-songs-on-youtube/ld86j1b">was chart-topping </a>for a long while.

Below is how Vinka, <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/celebrities/i-dont-have-vocal-ability-vinka-compares-herself-to-irene-ntale/45jv4xs">real name Veronica Nakiyingi Lugya</a>, has grown in the music industry over the years.

She grew up in Kazo, Kawempe, at her father's place and Bweyogerere (mother’s place), where she went when she was in P.5. The parents were separated.

She went to Hormisdallen Schools (Kamwokya), Rubaga Girls’ Secondary School and Makerere University, where she obtained a bachelor’s degree in Tourism Administration in 2017.

In A-Level, she was an entertainment prefect, and she started dancing and singing when she was in high school

In S.6 vacation, she participated in a dancing competition called NTV Hot Steps with friends whom she joined to form a group and they won.

She later worked for Jackie Chandiru as a dancer. It’s when <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/celebrities/social-media-was-not-nice-to-me-jackie-chandiru-on-why-she-left-uganda/d4sh10f">Chandiru started falling sick that Vinka started thinking about quitting.</a>

She had been performing at Buzz Events, which is owned by Swangz Avenue, and also danced for their artiste the late Sera. That's how she met Julius Kyazze. Kyazze offered her a job as an artiste manager and she took it.

She got the job while she was still at university and part-timed it with Chandiru’s until she asked her<a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/celebrities/i-cried-vinka-opens-up-on-nasty-ending-of-friendship-with-irene-ntale/m4hmzfh"> to choose between her and managing Irene Ntale.</a> She chose to work with Ntale.

In 2015, Swangz Avenue needed a dancehall artiste and they told her to participate in scouting for one.

She had been doing jingles and voice-overs at the record label. The label produces adverts for organisations.

Then in 2016, after she was done with school, she offered herself to try and become that dancehall singer. They hit the studio, and she recorded Level, her first single.

It was followed by Overdose, Malaika, and Love Doctor.

She believes that Malaika was the song that gave her the confidence that she had finally made it as a singer.

She stopped doing artiste management in October 2016 and focused fully on singing in February 2017.

In 2015, Swangz Avenue needed a dancehall artiste and they told Vinka to participate in scouting for one.

Know your celeb: The making of Vinka

Museveni was Thursday, January 4 addressing the gathering of speakers and presiding officers of the Commonwealth Parliament convened by the Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda, Anita Among, at the Commonwealth Speakers Conference (CSPOC24) at the Commonwealth Resort in Munyonyo, Kampala.

Emphasizing the need for Africa to chart its development course, President Museveni underscored the constraints imposed by inherited foreign policies, advocating for a shift toward solving internal challenges rather than perpetuating dependency on external solutions.

"Africa lags behind due to the inherited foreign policies of colonialists," he said, urging a focus on homegrown solutions to drive advancement.

The President urged the Commonwealth Parliament to spearhead the transformation of their nations by discarding neo-colonial ideologies and embracing technology. While acknowledging the contentious legacy of imperialism, he advocated for embracing the positive remnants of colonialism while breaking away from its detrimental aspects.

"Although imperialism was satanic in nature, it inadvertently gave birth to the Commonwealth, uniting 2.4 billion people. This collective population can serve as a catalyst for the development of nations within the Commonwealth," he articulated.

Echoing these sentiments, Speaker Anita Among emphasized the conference's focal points encompassing youth and gender, health, security, environment, human rights, the rule of law, democratic expansion, and the enhancement of parliamentary debate quality.

She expressed gratitude to President Museveni for facilitating the conference, characterizing the event as a pivotal milestone in the nation's legislative history.

With 33 out of 43 confirmed speakers in attendance, the Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of Commonwealth Parliaments, scheduled until January 6 represents a collaborative effort toward driving progressive changes and fostering deeper intra-Commonwealth cooperation.

Among the speakers and presiding officers of the commonwealth parliament present are those of the Dominican Republic, Botswana, Ghana, Granada, Guyana, India, Kenya, The Kingdom of Eswatini, Lesotho, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Rwanda, Singapore, Samoa, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Tanzania, Trinidad &amp; Tobago, Tonga, Uganda and Zambia.

Emphasizing the need for Africa to chart its own course for development, President Yoweri Museveni underscored the constraints imposed by inherited foreign policies

Museveni rallies Commonwealth speakers to abandon neo-colonial practices

The incredibly talented Mbabazi will be the third performing act of the second season and her episode will go live on Sunday, January 7.

This upcoming episode of Tusker Malt Conversessions promises a deep dive into the multifaceted life of the renowned vocalist. It will be a ‘conversession’ filled with many different topics that have left many intrigued such as her love life, her children, and her relationship with the Late Mozey Radio of the dynamic Radio and Weasel duo.

In a captivating promo clip, Lilian Mbabazi shares, "Moses and I had a very unique relationship. I loved that man with all my heart; we had kids together." The teaser has stirred anticipation among fans who are already giving their reactions online as they await this undoubtedly emotional and revealing ‘conversession.’

A behind-the-scenes glimpse into the preparations for this episode was also shared last week in a rehearsal video released on the Tusker Malt and Swangz Avenue social media pages.

In the video, Lilian Mbabazi speaks about the hard work and dedication invested in creating a special performance with the band.

"We’ve been working really hard to give you guys a special performance with the band. Everybody brings different ideas, giving it a new touch, making it seem new every single time, so it's about rehearsal," she shares.

"It is about hard work and putting in the time. I'm looking forward to just sharing my story with you and sharing my music and sharing my voice and having a good time and conversating with you," she adds.

Elizabeth Mutamuliza, the Brand Manager for Tusker Malt spoke to the brand's dedication to create premium experience for the discerning consumers.

"We are proud to create a platform where artistes can share their stories and connect with their fans in deeper ways. We believe in the power of music to bring people together. In the Conversessions, we celebrate the craft behind both the artiste and the Tusker Malt brand."

For those eager to witness this captivating episode, mark your calendars for Sunday, January 7, at 6:00 P.M. In the meantime, you can catch up on the previous live episodes on the Tusker Malt Lager YouTube page.

The incredibly talented Mbabazi will be the third performing act of the second season and her episode will go live on Sunday, January 7.

Lilian Mbabazi talks about Mowzey Radio in upcoming episode of Conversessions

He says all women have done is use him as a guinea pig.

"There is no youth women have hurt like me on this earth... I think after they finish school, they tell them to go and disrespect Saha so that when they are done ruining my life, they go and find men to get married to," said the Mpa Love hitmaker in an interview with Diaspora Connect Ug.

"They found a doll in me. Women play with my mind... I reached a point and started wondering if they sit in a meeting to discuss how to treat me. But it's like I was&nbsp;also bewitched. Because they all say the same things to me but I don't seem to learn."

One of King Saha's best projects of 2023 is a song based on his ex-girlfriend who dumped him because his music career wasn't taking off. The song titled <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/music/zari-cautions-about-exes-as-she-weighs-in-on-king-saha-feffe-bussi-song/zp9zpfy">Pretty Pretty even attracted Zari Hassan's attention.</a>

King Saha, <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/its-not-drugs-kings-saha-explains-red-eyes/bjd2577"> real name Mansour Ssemanda,</a> originally released the song eight years ago and it was then produced by Ark Menz, who also goes by Meddie Menz, and is popularly known for music video directing.

But this year, he tapped <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/celebrities/nubian-li-reveals-interesting-deal-he-made-with-feffe-bussi-while-still-in-school/b6mcczm">Feffe Bussi </a>for a remix of the song and it's now Bussi's most viewed video on YouTube.

King Saha sings about a girl whom he once dated and she left him because his career was taking off.

"Nothing is coming out of your hustle," the crooner belts out the lyrics full of melancholic memories as he recalls what the ex told him. "You've released a number of songs but we are not listening to them."

According to the story, the girl later comes back after he has succeeded but he ignores her. The remix was recorded by Nessim.

King Saha,  real name Mansour Ssemanda, originally released the song eight years ago and it was then produced by Ark Menz

Women have turned me into a dating guinea pig – Saha discusses painful dating history

Namukwya gave birth to a boy and a girl on Wednesday, November 29 and it was a cesarean delivery.

She conceived through <a href="https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ivf/#:~:text=In%20vitro%20fertilisation%20(IVF)%20is,womb%20to%20grow%20and%20develop.">In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), </a>according to a post shared by the Women's Hospital International and Fertility Centre in Kampala on Facebook.

IVF is an infertility treatment, a condition in which a woman fails to conceive.

&nbsp;During the IVF process, an egg is removed from a woman's ovaries and fertilised with sperm in a laboratory. The fertilised egg, called an embryo, is then put in a woman's womb to grow and develop.

Her twins weighed 2 kilograms each when she gave birth at 34 weeks.

“Celebrating our 20th anniversary, we've achieved the extraordinary – delivering twins to Africa's oldest mother aged 70!” the hospital said.

“This story isn’t just about medical success; it’s about the strength and resilience of the human spirit.”

It is Namukwaya's second delivery in three years, having given<a href="https://www.pulse.ug/news/uce-candidate-gives-birth-during-exams/67kbx1f"> birth </a>to a baby girl in 2020.

Reports indicate that she had wanted to have children after she was mocked for being childless.

"I looked after people's children and saw them grow up and leave me alone. I wondered who would take care of me when I grow old," she was quoted in the media.

It is not clear whether she used a donor egg or one of her own that was frozen and stored when she was younger.

Typically women go through menopause between the ages of 45 and 55. Fertility drops around this time but advances in medicine have made it possible for them to give birth.

A 70-year-old Ugandan woman named Safina Namukwaya gave birth to healthy twins, having conceived through In Vitro Fertilization

70-year-old Ugandan woman gives birth to twins

<a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/music/how-sheebah-helped-ykee-benda-close-deal-with-his-dad/nmhttce">Farmer, a song by Ykee Benda</a>, became a massive hit after Karungi, who also goes by Queen Sheebah, stepped in for the remix, giving the Kireka Boy a breakthrough.

At 7.3 million views on YouTube, the video which was shot by Bashir Lukyamuzi, is the second most viewed on his channel.

Lukyamuzi at the time was Benda's manager under Badi Music and the song was produced by Nessim.

Karungi also remixed <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/music/how-heavy-hitters-helped-crysto-panda-score-a-duet-with-sheebah-karungi/dpzt4lr">Crysto Panda's Kyoyina Omanya</a>, giving him a major breakthrough.

The song, which was produced by Artin Pro and recorded from Nessims studio, counts 2.4 million views on YouTube and it's the most viewed on his channel. The video was shot by Aaronaire.

Mzee Asingwire

Articles written by the author