edgar's rocker room

Sumani, the African Queen

2006-12-08T08:09:00.000+03:00

EDGAR R. BATTE

HUMBLE BEAUTY: Nancy Sumani is beautiful, intelligent and ambitious. She is the holder of the Miss World Africa title. Edgar R. Batte talked to her

*How did you get to contest for the Miss Tanzania title?
sumani: One of the organisers Mange Kimambi was a friend. We met at a fast-food joint and she asked me whether I was interested and I told her I was. Were you convinced you had what it took for the contest?I was not exactly convinced; I contested just because I had all the time in the world. I had just finished high school, so I decided to give it a shot irrespective of the outcome.
*While at it, did the thought of losing cross your mind?
Sumani: No. I knew I would do well. You contest with hope of winning so I went into the contest with high hopes.
*When you got to meet your fellow contestants, did you feel you had any advantages Sumani: over them, as you knew one of the organisers?
I believed that all the other 25 contestants where really beautiful and intelligent. It was difficult for me to think I would beat them but I was confident and that motivated me to do well
*Tell us about the big day when you were crowned Miss Tanzania?
Sumani: It was a memorable day, September 2, last year. It was an exclusive event held at the Diamond Jubilee Hall. There was a big crowd and of course among us contestants there was high tension, nervousness as well as excitement. Above all, there was anticipation for the car to be won as the grand prize. Thank God, that at the end of the night, I was the winner.Being Miss Tanzania, you qualified for the Miss World contest in Sanya, China.

* How was the experience at Miss World?
Sumani: Exciting. It was one of those once in a lifetime experiences. I left home on November 10, 2005, and stayed a month in China with other contestants. It was overwhelming. We were given first class treatment. We stayed at the Sheraton, China and had legendary Alexander O'Neil perform live just for us. The Chinese performances were electrifying as well. Of course the main event was magical. Besides that, we had a lot of trips around China, visiting cities like Shanghai and places like the Nanshan temple in Sanya.
*How did it feel being chosen as Miss World Africa, and being so close to the title of Miss World?
Sumani: Unbelievable. I was left speechless for a while.
*How does it feel being the African queen?
Sumani: I am a simple person who is not into vanity. I carry myself around like any other average person.You earlier said that you contested for the Miss Tanzania title because you had a lot of time after finishing high school.
*Are you still in school?
Sumani: I just finished my O-level in Masai High School in Nairobi.
*You are Miss Tanzania, how come you studied in Nairobi not Tanzania?
Sumani: Both my parents Mr and Mrs Abraham Sumani have businesses in Nairobi so they decided that for convenience, I had to attend school in Nairobi. It was a good place. By the time I got there, I was a young girl from Dar es Salaam and growing up in Nairobi, a place with a different culture and way of life was pretty exciting because I love adventure.
*Tell us more about yourself?
Sumani: I was born in Arusha, Tanzania in 1986. I am turning 20 on August 7. I am a Leo. I spent most of my time in Nairobi but I usually go back to Dar es Salaam for holidays.Any childhood memories?I was a lucky naughty girl who was never caught 'in the act'.
*How would you describe your personality?
Sumani: Oh my God! (Smiles) I would put it in three words. I am open-minded, happy and content. You're such a beautiful young lady, are you still single?Very much indeed. *Well, would you mind painting us the picture of your ideal guy?
I like a confident 'brother' who is not easily intimidated. I like a person who is happy and content just like I am. He could be tall with a little bit of muscle though not too much.
*So you mean you've never walked past some guy and you feel like…he's cool?
Sumani: I have feelings and I have experienced crushes on guys but I am a pretty shy person. So I can't approach them.What things interest you?I love reading. I absolutely love adventure, more so adventurous travel for relaxation. I also love music.
*Talking about travelling, how many countries have you been to?
Sumani: I've been to Ireland, China, the UK and Kenya. I’ll visit Mauritius soon.
Why Mauritius of all places?
I will be travelling with Ms World. We shall be doing a little bit of charity work there. I guess it will be an adventurous trip because I have never been there before.
*Any future prospects?
Sumani: I intend to become a very prosperous corporate lawyer as well as business lady and entrepreneur. Who do you look up to in life?My parents. As a beauty queen, what's your most embarrassing moment?When I fell in a bank. It was very mortifying.

Struggling to survive amidst complex land policies

2006-12-08T07:45:00.000+03:00

EDGAR R. BATTE

The Benet’s situation is not helped by the biting poverty that the area faces. With poorly constructed houses, food shortage, frequent cattle raids and hardly any social services in the area, life only gets harder.Perched on a stone, this man seems deeply lost in thought. It is time to make a meal and despite the centuries passed since the Stone Age era, Kogeni makes his fire through the stone-age practice of rubbing two splinters and dry grass. He succeeds and the orange glow is evidence of that.It is just unfortunate that this Benet tribesman lives in the cold zones of Mountain Elgon in Kapchorwa District where dry grass is not that easy to come by. Minutes after a cup of sugarless tea, he makes for the garden but for a little while, he’s hesitant to start tilling. Dew is forming on almost everything from his hands and feet to the entire surrounding.His face tells it all. He just cannot seem to understand why after being a settler in an area his ancestors have occupied for over 200 years, he continues to be subjected to tilling land in order to earn a living. He is one of the other Benet natives that have been pushed off the bigger part of their homeland and restricted to staying in a small area between the two rivers of Kere and Kaptukoi. The rest of the land has been reserved for game.Restrictive land policiesAccording to the woman Member of Parliament for Kapchorwa, honourable Gertrude Kulany, there are actually some families that still don’t have definite areas to stay. “It is true that parliament gazetted the 6,000 hectares of the game park to resettle the Benet but still, there are some families that were left homeless,” the MP points out. She has also consequently made her pleas to government to come to their rescue and gazette more land to accommodate these people.The process of gazetting the land took place back in 1983 when government confined them to 6,000 hectares. In the same year, the red-line mark (a demarcation line between the game park and the Benet’s residential area) was put in place. The population back then were still low. At the time, the Benet were only 1,000 but currently, the figures have increased to approximately 7,000 people. Hon. Kulany adds that they have as well made an outcry to the district council to pass a resolution to enable the extension of the boundary beyond the currently designated area of occupation.Another leader and chairman of the Benet lobby group, Moses Muanga can hardly make any sense out of government’s decision towards them. “We have lived on the slopes of mountain Elgon for over 200 years. It is puzzling that we are forced to vacate. This is all due to government’s unclear land tenure policy in the area. How can you sideline human life for the case for mere animals?” he questions. Unanswered requests The chairman adds that the Benet have made various outcries and pleas to the government but all the efforts seem not to yield any results. He adds that they continue to be landless and marginalized in decision-making. He points out the resettlement process where the tribe was resettled without any compensation package. Hon Kulany attests to this, adding that the locals can hardly embark on any long-term plans within the area since they are not quite sure of their stay on the land. At times, conflicts between the locals and game rangers ensue, a situation Hon. Kulany blames on the failure of the locals and rangers to come to terms. The other reason is poverty, which has also frustrated their efforts to develop themselves. Poverty in the area is physical and their houses tell it all. They are made of a few reeds, leaves and mud. A matchbox is shared between seven families, each of them about half a kilometre apart. All Kogeni owns is a blanket, which he moves with during the day because of the cold and for bedding to warm him up at night. Despite the hard situation, he tries his best to impress his visitors; he slaughters a goat, which he prepares along with potatoes (locally known as sipatisi). On many occasions, food is obtained from the neighbouring Sabiny community in return for manual labour. In this community, women’s rights are highly respected. The Benet women are the pride of the land. Like the men, they are tall, dark and beautiful.They contribute a good share to the community. They barter the nicely woven baskets they make to the Sabiny who live eight kilometres away. This is across two streams, which, on a bad rainy day will get flooded to the extent that nobody can cross. That is when many will go hungry. The floods will also hinder the few school-going children from attending school. There hardly any social services in the area as Muanga explained: “There is nothing like Universal Primary Education in this place. Well, we would have constructed our own schools but we are a poor lot,” he pointed out.And before an NGO constructed the only health centre, the expectant mothers had an uphill task, especially when it came to labour. Today, many depend on handouts from Action aid and a few other NGOs operating in the area. Another problem Hon. Kulany highlights is that of the Karimajong cattle rustlers from the low lands of Ngenge. She explains that the raiders have caused unrest to the Benet, sometimes causing loss of lives in the course of the raids since some of them (the cattle-rustlers) are armed.MarginalizationIn addition, the Sabiny dominated the whole resettlement process accounting for the inclusion of the internally displaced and needy in the resettlement process, at the expense of the target historical inhabitants, the Benet. The population of the non-Benet has so far out-numbered the Benet in the area and during elections, the former take up all the leadership positions. At the sub-county for instance, none of the Benet is an executive member. On the whole, the Benet’s situation remains a hanging mystery. They need permanent structures to call homes, social services to compliment their hard work and recognition of their existence as well.

Edgar's Rocker Room

2006-11-29T07:09:00.000+03:00

edgar's rocker room

Meeting the simple Akon

2006-09-11T09:00:00.000+03:00

EDGAR R. BATTE
A moment with Akon just brings out the character of a simple and laidback star. During his visit to Tanzania last week, one could hardly believe the man before us was actually a multi-platinum superstar whose songs are topping world charts. If it were not for his mean crew and security detail that created airs around him, he could have passed off for any other average guy. Akon had all arms open for anyone. During a press conference on Wednesday, the US-based star revealed he would sign up any serious East African artiste.His most revealing moment was during an interview in East African radio studios where he was hosted alongside his six-man crew of notably more heavily built and taller guys.Ugandan born Dennis Busulwa a.k.a Ssebo hosted the show and introduced the star to Swahili phrases like mambo vipi (Swahili phrase What's up). "Kampala, Dar es Salaam and Nairobi mambo vipi," Akon kept interjecting all throughout the show, implying that he was a fast learner. When phone lines were opened, the callers asked Akon all kinds of questions and he answered them freely. One of the listeners asked him how he had 'found' the Tanzanian girls. "Well, I do not sleep around. Whenever, I am out on a show I move with my girlfriend," Akon answered. The star, who is a strict Muslim is said to be in his third marriage. He also neither smokes nor takes alcohol.
THIS IS GOOD: Akon admires a wood curving that was given to him a souvnier to remember Tanzania
ALL SMILES: Akon was down to earth and he didn’t carry himself around with airs. Below, he ponders after being asked a question during a press conference. Photos by Edgar R. Batte
After the show, Akon posed for photos with East African artistes like Uganda's Ngoni, Bebe Cool, Kenya's Necessary Noise and Nonini as well as the radio station's presenters.Later on , the star was hosted to cocktail party where he mingled freely with everyone. It is here that he revealed that he had actually been a Jazz percussionist like his father, who moved to the US with his family, when Akon was only Seven. After settling in the state of New Jersey, Akon learned how to play different percussion instruments. However, he was always on the wrong side of the law in a bid to make ends meet, leading to his imprisonment. While serving his term in jail, he wrote down what was going through his mind, coming up with the hot album Trouble. "The album is basically me. I wrote everything, basing on my experiences." He discovered that he could no longer do percussion and turned to hip-hop, becoming a successful songwriter, singer and producer. He freely obliged when people at the party asked to have a few photos with him. He was even eager to learn more Swahili and he tried to speak it with everyone he was chatting with.Although he was expected in Tanzania on Thursday, Akon arrived in the country two days before and explained that he needed sometime to move around and experience more about the social life in Dar es Salaam. "I decided to come early so that I could move around and meet people as well as enjoy my stay here before I get on stage," he said. Akon's debut album, Trouble, went multi-platinum worldwide, with hits like Lonely, Locked up, Ghetto, Keep On Calling, Bananza and Pot of God just to mention a few. During his stay, the down-to-earth Senegalese born star was able to visit Celtel Tanzania and Coca Cola offices, the main sponsors of his Friday show. He also visited a charity home and on his way, he kept waving to the crowds, occasionally saying, mambo vipi as he travelled throughout the city.

Professor Jay’s passion is music

2006-09-11T08:58:00.000+03:00

EDGAR R. BATTE
He loved to sing as a child and started writing his own rhymes at 15. Today, he has two albums to his name and has won several music awards back home in Tanzania. Edgar R. Batte caught up with him

*This should be your first visit to Uganda, how have you found it here?
Uganda is beautiful and the people are a lively lot. They know how to party. Of late, you've been in the media for sueing Jose Chameleone over stealing rights to your Nikusaidieje song and then you guys have made peace.

*Why the sudden change of mind?
We are talking about the growth of East African music and that is why I made peace. We have to build the music industry and need each other's support if we are to market our music across boarders. Such solidarity has worked in South Africa and West Africa and I believe it can also work here.

*So what was the beef all about?
I don't want to say we had beef. I think it was simply a misunderstanding. I would have gone to court but it's not cool. When I told Chameleone that I wanted us to make peace, he was shocked but I think sueing him won't benefit me. My dream is to see East African music grow. Chameleone is big in East Africa and I think we can do something together. As a matter of fact, when I came down, I realised many more artistes, both underground and big names, had recorded songs using the Nikusaidieje beats.

*Do you have any plans of working with Chameleone on any project?
Yeah. In fact we are in studio recording a duet as proof that we are back together. Our fans should look out for our forthcoming duet dubbed Ndivyo siyvo.

*Any plans for you in the Ugandan market?
I know people love my music but they don't know the guy behind it so I think I need to promote my music down here. I love the Ugandan crowd, it's so lively. I have talked to Klear Kut, Michael Ross, and Ngoni and we are set for some musical collaboration soon.

*As a big artiste in Tanzania, what is your career portfolio?
I have won best hip-hop award for BBC East Africa awards for the 2005 edition and in 2001, my single Mdio Mzee won an award for best hip-hop in the Kilimanjaro Awards followed by the best composer award in 2002 and yet another for best album (Mapinduzi Halisi) also in the Kilimanjaro Awards.

*You are really passionate about music.Is it something you grew up to like or an interest you developed over time?
As a kid, I always listened to music. My brother would bring home classic collections and this was the time when emcees like Running DMC hit big in the hip-hop circles. They sang about black solidarity and I always tried hard to sing like them. In the late 80s and early 90s, we (and my friends) started miming these songs at open school shows but this was just to win cheap popularity especially among girls. By and by, I started developing a deep interest in music.

*Tell us about yourself. Who is Professor Jay?
Professor Jay's real name is Joseph Haule and I was born to Mr Leonard Haule and Ms. Rosemary Majanjara on 29th December, 1975, in Dar es Salaam. I am the sixth child in a family of nine. I always want to reach out with a simple approach, which makes me a sociable person.

*How did you make headway into the music industry?
I didn't actually discover myself, my cousin Frank Majanjara did. He always encouraged me after discovering I had some potential. As I continued to mime rap and hip-hop, I started synchronising in my own words. At 15, I began writing my own rhymes and in 1995, I formed the Hard Blusters Crew, with my three friends Big Willy, Fanani and producer Ludigo. We released our first album Fungakazi (working together) which introduced us to the crowds.

*When you look back at your musical journey, what marked your big break through?
Off our maiden album, I wrote and released a song called Chemisha Bongo, which was tagged as a revolutionary song. Soon it was an anthem on all airwaves. This song brought our fathers to listen to our music. Hitherto, bongo flavour was considered to be music for the street/ghetto people. Chemisha Bongo opened the way for other artistes into the game. It had an irresistibly strong message.

*What was so magical about Chemisha Bongo?
It tells the story of a child who did not want to go to school because he came from a well-to-do family but was opened to the 'real' world when his parents passed away. Relatives stole all the property his parents had and he was left with nothing and regretted not having gone to school. So parents used this song to caution their children and encourage them to work hard for their future.

*When did you go solo?
I went solo in 2001 and released my first album titled Machos Jasho Na Damu (Tears, Sweat and Blood). I dedicated this album to those hustling with life, those living on the streets and the ghettos. It was a word of encouragement for them not to give up hope.

*How did you carry on from there?
In 2003, I released my second album, Mapinduzi Halisi which had the hit song Zali la Mentali that enjoyed some good airplay especially on East Africa television. And in 2005, I released J.O.S.E.P.H. It has the Nikusaidieje hit that has won me an award for best song in Tanzania in the country's Kilimanjaro Awards.

*Last message…
I think as artistes, we might borrow ideas from the West but I feel our pride as Africans shouldn't be compromised. We still need to represent Africa. We have so many problems and as artistes, have a voice which can cause change.

HIV/Aids Widow Gets House From Actionaid

2006-09-11T08:51:00.000+03:00

Edgar R. Batte
For a moment, she stood still and at as loss for words. A visibly excited Hadijjah Nakito expressed joy as tears rolled down her cheeks.
Nakito, an HIV/Aids widow living in Makerere had her house washed away by heavy rains and has since been living in a shack but Actionaid International Uganda came to her rescue and constructed her a house, which was officially handed over to her last Thursday.
Nakito revealed the painful experience of life without a home and 11 members of the family to fend for.
The Country Director Amanda Serumaga said Nakito's three bed roomed house, would help her fend for her family as a source of income through renting out the boys quarters.
"This is part of our concerted efforts to work hand in hand with community based organisation in trying to eradicate poverty," she said. Actionaid is visiting different local communities in Uganda under the Get on board, back on the road dubbed campaign.

What is Ziggy Dee up to?

2006-09-11T08:50:00.000+03:00

EDGAR R. BATTE
ONE HIT WONDER?: Tanzanian based musician Ziggy Dee burst onto the Ugandan music scene with his monster hit Eno Mic. He hasn’t brought out anything as big since and we asked him why.

The last time you could have heard about him was when he rode high on the fame of his Eno Mic hit. Who didn't dance to the hit? In the club, we danced to it and on radio it enjoyed such enormous airplay that it could have been billed an anthem of sorts. Given the popularity of the song and the artiste's fame at the time, Ziggy Dee got chance to perform before the Members of Parliament (MPs) and he got them grooving all the way.That was in 2002. Four years later, Ziggy Dee has not managed to drop a hit as big as Eno Mic (ya Ziggy Dee tesaga), which has prompted talk that the artiste has fizzled out. In fact there is a joke about him having gone down along with his hit. For that, he was soon christened a one-hit wonderer.
PLANNING BIG COME BACK: Ziggy Dee during the interview. He says he is working on a 24- track album, which will re-define him as a big artiste in East Africa. Photo by Mike Odongkara
DUET: Lately Ziggy Dee has songs with artistes like Trishilla. However, he is still based in Tanzania. Extreme left, he does what he likes best-being on the mic. Photos by Ismail Kezaala
In an interview with It's Friday, Ziggy Dee is on the defensive. He talks of big plans for a massive comeback, hitting big in Tanzania as well as trying to have sometime for his hobbies, fine art and community development. The artiste boasts of being a good painter. "I am in studio working on 24-track album which is timely to challenge critics. It will cover all music lovers because I have blended various music styles like Bolingo (Zairian style), Bongo flavour, Kwaito and dancehall among others. It's my proof to people that I've never 'burned out'. After all, there are other songs I have released besides Eno Mic," Ziggy Dee told It's Friday.Recovering from the 'big hit' Eno MicIn local music it is one thing to put out a hit or successful album, and another to follow it up with an equal one. This is what Ziggy Dee is fighting hard to prove. "I want to show people that it wasn't chance for me to get in the limelight." Ever since, Eno Mic, he has released songs like Doctor in which he featured Zazou of the X-Ray trio, Kimansulo, Agawalahi, Lollipop, Hakuna Matata and Mugoti. These have not been big in Uganda, but he says nonetheless, they have enjoyed good airplay on Tanzanian FM stations. Doctor has got fair play on East African television. Of late, Ziggy Dee has changed the look of his dreadlocks tinting the end bits with blonde. He now talks of doing music on another level.Bigger in TanzaniaAsked why his music is not receiving as much airplay, Ziggy Dee says people do not take time to listen to the lyrical richness of music but are taken up by musical beats. It is for this reason he claims to be bigger in Tanzania. "In Tanzania, people appreciate a song for its richness beyond the trendy beats unlike in Uganda, where music is all about beats." Ziggy Dee is based in Tanzania where he spends most of his time. There, he boasts of gracing big music fetes like the Fiesta as well as the Summer Jam on which he gets to rub shoulders with musical big wigs from Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania. Judging from the success of his music in the land, he likens his musical career in Tanzania to Kyeyo (foreign job) of sorts. With the support of Clouds FM, one of the local FM stations in Dar es Salaam, he has been able to market his music beyond borders into Sudan, South Africa, Zimbabwe and Malawi where he has held performances. He has also collaborated with Zazou, the first lady from the X-Ray trio. The two have been seen together on a number of occasions, prompting the tabloids to question their relationship. However, Ziggy Dee laughs this off and clears the air stating that it is all about music and friendship they share as artistes and nothing more. He also refutes tabloid reports that he recently fathered a child. In fact, he discloses that he has a girlfriend though she prefers to keep a low profile. Who is Ziggy anyway? Ziggy Dee was born Adam Mutyaba Mukiibi in Ggaba. He grew up in Uganda but left for South Africa where he pursued a Diploma in language studies for three years (1998-2001). On his return, he switched to Tanzania and enrolled for an advanced Diploma in Information & Telecommunication (I.T) studies for a year. He joined music in 2002. He says he wants to focus his career towards benefiting community development as one of his latest dreams. That is why he wants to keep a clean name. "There are many things we can teach our peers and fans, rather than taking on 'bad boy' roles like physical fighting and writing fighting lyrics." The artiste's outlook is community based. He is looking at helping the destitute in society through holding charity concerts. He wants to help children get off the streets as well as help stop child slavery and abuses from the face of East Africa. Career wise, he looks beyond the East African borders. So far, he is completing a house in Ggaba, Kampala. He is also looking at becoming a music promoter as well. For now, Ziggy Dee says he has put all effort on his multi-lingual 24-track album, which he expects to redefine him as a star on the local music scene.

Glamour at Virgin fashion show at Makerere

2006-09-11T08:48:00.000+03:00

EDGAR R. BATTE
The timing could have been wrong owing to the World Cup fever but the evening was a worthy one especially because the show was organised, with a receptive crowd and above all, the remarkable innovation by the university students. We are talking about the maiden Virgin Show exhibition that was hosted at the Margaret Trowel School of Industrial and Fine art at Makerere University.
The theme of the exhibition was Contemporary yet Cultural and the creative wear that was on display said it all. The works were a combination of the students and their lecturers.The show kicked off two hours later than scheduled. Some of the night's highlights comprised a showcase of creative, beach and evening wear as well as performances from Priscilla Kalibala. State Minister for Gender, Rukia Isanga represented the Gender Minister, Syda Bbumba. The students modelled as they showcased a variety of designs drawing cheers from their peers and guests as the emcee gave descriptions of different creations, designers and the models. The designs brought out the relevance of the theme with the fusion of both African and modern materials like backcloth, banana fibre, calabash as well as cotton. Meanwhile, the crowd was kept informed on the progress of the match. Kalibala who was apparently the only musical act at the exhibition lit up the house with performances of her songs Mwana Gwe, Gumikiriza and Yonno that attracted a round of applause from the crowd. The show went on till approximately 11p.m.

The ghetto president

2006-09-11T08:47:00.000+03:00

EDGAR R. BATTE
MISUNDERSTOOD: Despite his Toyota Landcruiser bearing the words ‘100 percent bad news’, Bobi Wine says he is not as bad as people perceive him to be
No other local artiste has come under more public criticism about his or her behaviour than Bobi Wine. And so EDGAR R. BATTE caught up with the dread locked "Bad Man from Kamwokya."
Good evening, bad man?I'm fine. This time round, I would like you to help me and make people know the real truth about me. I have never been justly written about. When they look at my muscular body, mean face and the scars on my body, they see me as a bad man yet I'm no longer a bad man.
Well, now you have the chance to say something about yourself…Bobi Wine is a 26-year-old educated husband of Barbie and father of Solomon Sekayi Nyanzi Kampala Galyenkanawa Kyagulanyi II. I work and earn but above all, most people especially the media have misunderstood me. You [media] don't hate me but you misunderstand me.
You must be talking about reports that you often fight. Honestly, don't you fight?Since 1996, I have been involved in only two brawls. Last year I beat up Ronnie Banton during the East Africa Music Festival at Munyonyo after he poured beer on me in front of my father. But I forgave him when he apologised. The other fight is when I punched Chameleone last year in Ange Noir and he sustained a swollen cheek. I have been provoked in every fight I have been involved in, but because people see that I'm more fierce and stronger, they say I beat up people. However, it's over a year since I last fought.
BAD MAN STATUS: Bobi Wine says people misunderstand him because of his mean looks. Photos by Willy Tamale
Maybe you are no longer fighting because people know you are bad news and they fear to provoke you.Perhaps, but even if they did, I would never fight again. I only have two more fights in life. One will be in court in case my wife tries to divorce me, and the other is fighting death. I will never go physical with anybody. Not because I'm no longer strong but because now I'm a parent.
A parent. How is Bobi Wine the father at home?At home I'm not Bobi Wine but Taata Solomon (father of Solomon). I'm not a ruler, though once in a while like any other man, I rule the house, but most times I'm a buddy to my wife, son and my young brothers. When we're together it's about playing, eating, praying and sleeping.
About praying, you once got saved but you're still doing secular music. How do you relate with God?I'm not a mulokole (saved); I'm a strong believer, a Christian and a God fearing man. I'm not under any pastor. Every Sunday we vote on where to go for services. Barbie likes KPC; I prefer Kansanga Miracle Centre and my brothers like Lubaga Cathedral but we always find reasons of going somewhere.If Barbie is the one driving she will take us to KPC but if we are going with Solomon, then it's Lubaga.
It seems Solomon is among the decision makers at home although he is too young to talk.I treat him like a little prince. Some times he wakes up earlier than me but he doesn't leave bed until I pick him to go and we eat berries. I have berries in my compound and he likes them very much. If there is any ripe jackfruit, I will climb the tree and leave him on the swing but if he insists on going with me, I will climb with him in my hands.
Don't tell me there's such a house to rent in Kampala where you have a compound with all kinds of fruits, swings and all sorts of things?Don't you know ? I built a 19-bedroom house in a place called Magere along Gayaza Road? I bought that land two years ago when it was a forest of nine acres but I've transformed it into a luxurious residential site suitable for me as the president.
By the way, we hear you're the president of the ghetto. Can you please elaborate?Initially I was the president of Firebase Crew, a group of upcoming artistes aspiring to greater heights. Coincidentally I was born in a ghetto like most of the crewmembers. Then there are those music crews that came up in different ghettos (slums) of Kampala who think like us. After I did the Ghetto song, they came to me and asked that we start a government of all ghettos and I become the president - so I did. Currently, I have ministers and Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) in every Kampala ghetto. I did my cabinet reshuffle a few months ago when I made Chagga the Prime Minister while Buchaman remained the Vice President. Chagga is also in charge of ethics and integrity because I believe he is the most disciplined local artiste after Gen. Mega Dee.
Who are the RDCs?Red Banton is the RDC Makindye, Mad Tiger is for Lubaga North, Original Designer is for Lubaga South, In Kawempe South I have Lord Beaten but for the sake of space I will have to mention only a few. They speak for and on behalf of the President Bobi Wine.
So, you don't recognise President Museveni since you have your own government?Our government is totally at par with the Central government and we are Kabaka's men. We are not a political government. We get directives from God. We fight to air the people's views through music.
So, Barbie is also a first lady?Definitely, she is. We spend 80 percent of our time together laughing but the rest of the time she's discussing politics and she's the brightest woman you could come across.Besides being loving, she also likes playing a lot. We compete in bike riding and she reaches the finishing line before me but I always win her in arm-wrestling. She is a stronger Christian and at home she has made it a law that we must pray before going to bed. Even if I come back home tired, I will have to thank God for the day.Does she also force you to do chores at home?Umm…I always cook the fish and pork, and maybe when we have an argument with her on who cooks what better than who. My main duty is to look after the compound, the flowers and feeding the birds and animals. I have all types of animals, from pigs, goats, cows, rabbits and horses. I have chicken, a parrot, and I had ducks but I threw them out, Barbie hates them because they are dirty. Duck meat is my favourite.
And you have a marijuana garden?When people who are believed to be violent talk about a gun, everybody gets alarmed, yet others move comfortably with them. When I talk about marijuana they say there goes a drug addict. Just like I can't come and tell everybody that I'm a coffee drinker, I won't come and say I take marijuana. But to me every creation is blessed as long as it enhances livelihood. My precise answer is that marijuana is like any other plant whether to be used or not to be used by man depending on their interests.
Sections of local press have linked you to having an affair with Juliana.People have said all sorts of things but clearly Juliana and I are good friends and musical partners. Of course if anybody saw you with a beautiful girl, they would imagine something deep going on. I know I could get any woman I want but I made my choice long time ago and I think it's the best choice I have done. I have a woman who loves and satisfies me in every aspect of life and that is Barbie.
What is your honest opinion on the Pam Awards?I know I will be the artiste of the year. What do you think? I don't know what other people think but I think I deserve it. This year I've done the biggest hits, Bada, Kabaseke, Adam Ne Kaawa and Ghetto.
Tell us about your launch today?The platinum show is at Hotel Equatorial tonight and on Sunday we will be at Ggaba beach where I will sing all my 60 songs. Gates open at 5 a.m. and performances start at 10 a.m. until 10 a.m. the next day. All Ugandan artistes will be there. My new cabinet will swear-in at Ggaba. I will also appoint new RDCs on that day.

The break that led to a break-up

2006-09-11T08:44:00.000+03:00

EDGAR R. BATTE
He looks calm, walks with grace and reaches out to you in serene manner. When you meet him, you have surely met a peaceful man. As he strides through towns, a few heads will turn for a second stare. Patrick Birungi is the peaceful guy who graced our screens as Ateenyi in the local drama series Hand in Hand. He is that dark handsome guy with an O-shaped moustache (read channel 'O') who played the character role of the electrician in the local drama. He confesses ladies have always taken special interest in him. And well being the hunk he is, you would expect him to have someone to complete the picture. But lo! The fine-looking guy is still on the shelf. He says he is yet to give love a second chance, having lost out on it in his first relationship that ended quite prematurely.Patrick is into some private business as well. He runs one of the modelling agencies in town called PM studios located along Lumumba Avenue. He is a model and a familiar face on the billboards. He is the face that graces the billboards that advertise Uganda Telecom online billing and landline phones. You could also have also seen him on some of the Nile Special beer brand billboards. He is simply setting the heights for himself and as he says the popularity has helped too.
Debut into acting Patrick has spent a considerable part of his life as an actor having been mentored into the profession by veteran actor Alex Mukulu. "At the time he spotted me I was one of the lead vocalists in the Christ the King church choir. He needed people to feature in his production "The Seven Wonders of Uganda" and was looking for people who could particularly sing 'tenor' harmony voices. So he chose me and that is how I made my debut into acting," Patrick recounts.
Patrick’s ideal partner is someone who is simple, loving and open. Photo by Willy Tamale.
He acted in Alex Mukulu's acclaimed local productions like The Seven wonders of Uganda and Thirty years of Bananas. He confesses this was a dream come true since he had always harboured a secret love to become an actor one day so when Alex Mukulu approached him, he obliged with open arms. As a novice, Alex Mukulu didn't have to train him much. He gave him one cardinal rule-to be himself and not 'over act'. He heeded to the advice and soon he was being hooked for acting roles by some big filming companies to feature in their projects. He has since had roles in movies like Get up this time, Full of energy, The Convict as well as his recent role in Hand in Hand. However, it was not smooth sailing for him as a start. He tells of the tension while on stage during his maiden days. He just did not know how the audience would react to him but he has overcome this. In Hand in Hand, which endeared him to the local audience; he took on a character trait of an electrician with a dream of working his way to America for greener pastures overlooking his craftsmanship in Uganda.
Taking his timeFor a handsome guy like him, you would expect a bevy of ideal partners but that is not the case. Patrick tells of his disappointment with love after falling out with his 'dream girl'.When he took on the role in Hand in Hand, it required a lot of his time, which his girlfriend couldn't stand. "It was all good till I became a little busier. She became insecure which was bothersome more so with the pressure of work, we gave each other a break which also led to our break-up," he says. Nonetheless, he is confident there is someone more ideal for him. When asked about his ideal kind of partner, Patrick paints a picture of someone simple with love and an open mind."I would like someone who is straight with inner beauty. She ought to be kind and more importantly open-minded. Well, I am not a perfectionist but just haven't met someone ideal." When not on stage acting or at his modelling agency, Patrick loves taking some time off to relax at the beach with a couple of friends. Otherwise, he loves making friends and a bit of adventure. He has also spread his interests to music and you can get him enjoying some classical and jazz notes. In the pop world, he like Rhythm & blues star, Joe. These make his day and put him in the right mood to face days as they come. The actor/model is grateful to God for what he has managed to achieve so far.
On the Uganda theatre sceneRiding on acting experience of approximately a decade or so, Patrick feels that the Ugandan theatre industry is still lacking. He says a lot is still missing. "There is too much of 'over acting' which is holding local theatre behind. It also lacks reality. Fact is we have good actors who if given more professional training can improve," he said.Incidentally Patrick Birungi discloses that he did not study any course to do with acting. In fact he says he studied accounting at University. Birungi was born in December 1972 to Mr. & Mrs. Ssembogga. He points out that his childhood was not the best and grateful to his parents who struggled to raise him.

Sumani the African queen

2006-09-11T08:43:00.000+03:00

EDGAR R. BATTE
HUMBLE BEAUTY: Nancy Sumani is beautiful, intelligent and ambitious. She is the holder of the Miss World Africa title. Edgar R. Batte talked to her
How did you get to contest for the Miss Tanzania title? One of the organisers Mange Kimambi was a friend. We met at a fast-food joint and she asked me whether I was interested and I told her I was.
Were you convinced you had what it took for the contest?I was not exactly convinced; I contested just because I had all the time in the world. I had just finished high school, so I decided to give it a shot irrespective of the outcome.
While at it, did the thought of losing cross your mind?No. I knew I would do well. You contest with hope of winning so I went into the contest with high hopes.
When you got to meet your fellow contestants, did you feel you had any advantages over them, as you knew one of the organisers?I believed that all the other 25 contestants where really beautiful and intelligent. It was difficult for me to think I would beat them but I was confident and that motivated me to do well
Tell us about the big day when you were crowned Miss Tanzania? It was a memorable day, September 2, last year. It was an exclusive event held at the Diamond Jubilee Hall. There was a big crowd and of course among us contestants there was high tension, nervousness as well as excitement. Above all, there was anticipation for the car to be won as the grand prize. Thank God, that at the end of the night, I was the winner.
Being Miss Tanzania, you qualified for the Miss World contest in Sanya, China. How was the experience at Miss World?Exciting. It was one of those once in a lifetime experiences. I left home on November 10, 2005, and stayed a month in China with other contestants. It was overwhelming. We were given first class treatment. We stayed at the Sheraton, China and had legendary Alexander O'Neil perform live just for us.
BEAUTIFUL: Miss Tanzania Nancy Sumani during the interview. Photo by Edgar R. Batte
The Chinese performances were electrifying as well. Of course the main event was magical. Besides that, we had a lot of trips around China, visiting cities like Shanghai and places like the Nanshan temple in Sanya.
How did it feel being chosen as Miss World Africa, and being so close to the title of Miss World?Unbelievable. I was left speechless for a while.
Being Africa's beauty queen. How does it feel? Don't you feel so special?I am a simple person who is not into vanity. I carry myself around like any other average person.
You earlier said that you contested for the Miss Tanzania title because you had a lot of time after finishing high school. Are you still in school?I just finished my O-level in Masai High School in Nairobi.
You are Miss Tanzania, how come you studied in Nairobi not Tanzania?Both my parents Mr and Mrs Abraham Sumani have businesses in Nairobi so they decided that for convenience, I had to attend school in Nairobi. It was a good place. By the time I got there, I was a young girl from Dar es Salaam and growing up in Nairobi, a place with a different culture and way of life was pretty exciting because I love adventure.
Tell us more about yourself?I was born in Arusha, Tanzania in 1986. I am turning 20 on August 7. I am a Leo. I spent most of my time in Nairobi but I usually go back to Dar es Salaam for holidays.
Any childhood memories?I was a lucky naughty girl who was never caught 'in the act'.How would you describe your personality?Oh my God! (Smiles) I would put it in three words. I am open-minded, happy and content.
You're such a beautiful young lady, are you still single?Very much indeed.
Well, would you mind painting us the picture of your ideal guy?I like a confident 'brother' who is not easily intimidated. I like a person who is happy and content just like I am. He could be tall with a little bit of muscle though not too much.
So you mean you've never walked past some guy and you feel like…he's cool?I have feelings and I have experienced crushes on guys but I am a pretty shy person. So I can't approach them.
What things interest you?I love reading. I absolutely love adventure, more so adventurous travel for relaxation. I also love music.
Talking about travelling, how many countries have you been to?I've been to Ireland, China, the UK and Kenya. I’ll visit Mauritius soon.
Why Mauritius of all places?I will be travelling with Ms World. We shall be doing a little bit of charity work there. I guess it will be an adventurous trip because I have never been there before.
What are your future prospects? I intend to become a very prosperous corporate lawyer as well as business lady and entrepreneur.
Who do you look up to in life?My parents.
As a beauty queen, what's your most embarrassing moment?When I fell in a bank. It was very mortifying.

Kidfox talks about his first girlfriend Straka

2006-09-11T08:42:00.000+03:00

EDGAR R. BATTE
Kidfox says Straka was a sweet girl. Photos by Walter Wafula
He is composed and his lifestyle is simple. His lyrics tell it all. He is the voice behind popular hits like Brothers and Sisters and Love is a good feeling. His name is Kidfox. The laidback budding dancehall gem once dated T.V star, Straka Mwezi. That was way back before Straka made her way into local television. She was his first girlfriend.
"Pamela Mwezi better known as Straka was my first girlfriend. “We met at a certain school show, which a friend of mine had organised. Pamela used to rap those days.
She was still a young girl then," Kidfox recalls. At this particular show, all they did was exchange formal courtesies but Fox confesses she was a beauty to behold. He had an eye on her but was quite a shy guy.
Meanwhile, a good number of guys (big stars now) also had an eye on her but for some reason, her eyes were glued on Kidfox. "She was this young, slender, beautiful girl with a nice figure and glowing eyes. So when we finished making our rounds on stage, I decided to take another look at her and well, I landed but could not let it out. We chatted a bit. I didn't know what to do. I was really raw when it came to relationships".
For fear of having to compete with all these many guys, Kidfox gave up and tried to silently deal with the crush he had had on Straka. On the contrary, Straka seemed not to be interested in any of the many guys that were interested in her. She had her eyes on Kidfox.
Like luck could have it, Pamela made her intentions known. She then started sending him gifts through one of his friends, Viboyo, another upcoming artiste. Before long, the magic had worked out.
Pamela was such a sweet girl and with the nice accompanying luring sweet messages she sent him, Fox was soon hooked. Before she could perform a song, she would dedicate it to Kidfox. He found love was all about being open and expressive. Soon he found out it was time to stop playing the dodgy little games. Interesting enough, some of his friends put him under pressure to give in.
So one day while at home, Boogie Woogie (Amooti of Amarula Family) brought Pamela home for a casual visit."She was serious and determined for us to have something concrete moving. We were together for three years," Fox recollects. As a young couple, they managed to understand each other. Both of them were still breaking through in local showbiz and frankly owned nothing much. Kidfox was still at Makerere University.
Straka's talent started landing her good money as an emcee at some of the joints like Sabrina's pub and DV8 bistro. Soon, they moved out and started a life on their own. "We were both willing to learn from each other. It was a little hard in the beginning but with time, I started hooking deals with big companies for promotions and we managed to survive."
The walk to stardom Straka tried her luck at WBS television, not only for her career development but also to improve their status as couple. She was a very hardworking young girl.
She was patient too. "I used to drink out with the boys but she was patient and really compassionate. I would always find her waiting for me.
She was really serious about our relationship irrespective of the many guys that were still after her," says Kidfox. As a young couple, they would freely talk about everything plus helping each other out. Fox would give her some tips on how best she could present her show.
But like fate would have it, soon Straka was getting older and more exposed. Back at home, Kidfox and Straka wrote applications but it was not easy as she was tossed up and down at WBS till she decided to go ahead and see the Managing Director, Gordon Wavamunno, who was somewhat impressed by her confidence and gave her the benefit of doubt. She started working at WBS television.
Hitting the snag"I started smelling a rat when they brought this guy Charles Oimuke on T.V who once presented African Rhythms. Meanwhile, I guess I was spending more of my time with my friends and not giving enough care so I think this guy (Charles) got enough space," Fox recounts.
In fact, Kidfox initially thought Charles was lining her for another guy, I was later to learn the bitter truth. Soon, they began hanging out together which only affirmed Fox's fears that Charles could have had intentions of moving out with his girlfriend, Straka. "One night, I retired before her and when I called her, in the background were some of her friends saying all these bad things about me. I was hurt and simply switched off the phone," says Fox.
The relationship went from bad to worse and the two had to separate. She later had a child with Charles. She moved on while Fox lost ground in the music industry.
"It was time for me to go back to my kind of crowd, my down to earth friends. I concentrated on the completion of my degree. Meanwhile, I also went back home to stay with my parents."
When he saw the lightWhen he returned home, it was yet another battle. His family had never liked the idea of him moving out with Straka. For his sisters, she had taken away all the attention and for the parents, they were too young to start a life on their own.
Plus, his family is born-again and he had messed up his life. With the help of his sisters, he decided to get saved, which he says has changed his lifestyle. "I used to smoke and take weed (marijuana) as well as drink but I have managed to change my life around to stop doing them all."
He is now focussed on making a greater mark on the local and international scene, sometime in the future.

Sheraton unveils plush suites

2006-09-11T08:40:00.000+03:00

EDGAR R. BATTE
The time was 7p.m, the venue-Sheraton Kampala Hotel and it was another reason to drink and make merry. It was the corporate cocktail where the Sheraton unveiled another floor of the newly renovated lavish Parksquare Suites. This was on Thursday last week. The suites are located on the third floor. While taking guests around the suites, Sheraton's General Manager, Jawad Akhtar, said that they anticipate that the Parksquare suites will be ideal for guests who check into the hotel for a period of a month to one year.
EXQUISITE: The new suites, above and top. Photos by Willy Tamale
"We are very honoured to have you around as we unveil these plush suites. We have so far spent $25m on general renovations.There are both doubles and singles. The doubles can accommodate a family where the couple and their children can have separate rooms. For a night, singles go for $750 and $1,200 for the doubles," Jawad said. The Parksquare rooms have very good furniture but even more amazing is the view of the double-roomed suites that overlooks the city. Sheraton recently unveiled its Superior suites on the 12th floor. The new Parksquare Suites are self-contained with a bar, kitchenette, coffee making machines, microwaves and a refrigerator, a king-size bed, as well as splendid shower rooms.Jawad also disclosed that they are targeting the Common Wealth Heads of Government Meetings (Chogm) due next year.

Meet the lady bouncer

2006-09-11T08:38:00.000+03:00

Edgar R. Batte
SEX DOESN’T MATTER: Rwemushera has always looked at girls things as too girlie for her to do. Her job manifests this
It's rare to find a lady involved in manly work, like working in a nightclub as a bouncer. However, Margaret Rwemushera, who was a regular nightclub patron, took the opportunity to become a bouncer at Ange Noir nightclub with open arms. Rwemushera is the type who has always loved to go to the gym and as a result, she was looking for a place where she could put her excess energy to good use. This does not mean that she bounces patrons in the nightclub. On the contrary, she has not manhandled anyone before and she prefers to talk to whoever is trying to wreck havoc. "Whenever the situation goes out of hand and there is a need to get physical, I leave it to the guys (male bouncers) to handle," she says.
ON THE JOB: Rwemushera at Ange Noir. Photo by Eddie Chicco
She is lucky she gets on well with her male colleagues and when you find her in the company of the well-built men, you could easily mistake her for another man. When you meet her for the first time, Rwemushera strikes you as a tough and strict lady. The strictness comes in to keep the rowdy patrons at bay. However, she is not the type that thinks that bouncers should wear mean faces to show that they are doing their jobs.The Rwemushera at her home in Kawempe is different from the bouncer at Ange Noir. There, you will find her playing and trying to cheer up children in her neighbourhood. No wonder you could never find her if you tried tracing her by her name. In her neighbourhood, she is more known by her nickname "Kiisa" meaning compassionate, because of her character at home. But for those who have met her in the line of duty, it is a different perception altogether. "When I try to interact with people who have come to know me because of what I do, they think I'm a reserved and withdrawn girl, but with time, they discover a completely different part of me," she says.When she has her day off from work on Wednesdays, Rwemushera says that her workmates admit that it is such a boring day for them as she is a talkative person. "Their conversations mainly revolve around women and they always want to get my views on girlie issues," she says while smiling. Obviously, the girl in Rwemushera has not died down. She loves being cheered up, gossiping, reading novels and cares about her looks too. Rwemushera joined Ange Noir through friends (from Ange Noir) when she used to work out at the Hotel Africana gym. They asked her to join them in the nightlife to work as a bouncer and when she went around to study whether she could handle the situation, Charlie Lubega, her current employer encouraged her and she joined the club in 2002. You could think her working environment is tempting, but she has reason to dread men. Rwemushera says that she has been in two relationships before and has nothing good to tell about the experiences. Fresh from secondary school, Rwemushera met a guy and she immediately fell in love with him, but she ended up regretting her choice. "He was a very unserious man. After getting two children with him, I could no longer contain his cheating and over protectiveness," she says. She moved on and decided she could do better as a single mother. She is now a responsible mother who loves to do the best for her children. That is not to say that her life revolves around Ange Noir and her home. Rwemushera actually takes sometime off to engage in her favourite sports. You will not find her playing netball, because she finds it very girlish and that is why she was nicknamed a tomboy.At school, she played football and basketball and still gets time to play her favourite sports. She has also gone against the odds and on Tuesdays, the place to catch her is surprisingly the rival Club Silk, where she joins other revellers on the dance floor till the wee hours of the morning. This helps her put off some stress as well as have some time out with friends. Rwemushera says her day begins before 7 a.m. to get her children ready for school. She has managed to make them appreciate her job. She is however optimistic that they have the opportunities to join better and more professional careers.

Ras B and Gloria

2006-09-11T08:36:00.000+03:00

EDGAR R. BATTE
When Ras B. Ssali first met Gloria, the magic of her glowing eyes took his breath away. She was one of the dancers he had hired for promotion drives. Her dance moves were exceptional and somehow held his stance.
All the while, she smiled at him alluringly. He couldn't fight the temptation any longer. He got her in private and poured out his heart.
"She was beautiful, attractive and reserved which prompted me to get closer to her if only to learn about the deeper part of her. When she gave me a chance, I discovered two treasures: Gloria had mutual respect and offered an avenue for open communication.""She was also ready for commitment with someone serious. Her simplicity, care and openness helped me to decide she was the ideal girl I could love and trust," Ras B. Ssali recalls.
Ssali (R) and Gloria
She was still at Makerere University Business School then, but has since completed her degree in Entrepreneurship Studies. He used to pay her courtesy calls at the university. They went out together to discover more about each other as well as water the seeds of their newfound love.
To Ssali, Gloria Nabweteme was and still is exceptional and the two have been together since 2002. But like all relationships, he says, they too, have had challenges. Ssali however, discloses that they never have fights or shout at each other, adding that silence has worked wonders for them.
"When we get misunderstandings, we give each other time to calm down so that we can cordially talk about the difference. We prefer to take it slow and easy," Ssali chips in.
Both partners are open to communication and solving their problems. For instance, Ssali confesses that given his kind of business, he meets several women but points out that for him, it is all about sticking to his principles and knowing that his actions subsequently affect his love life with Gloria.
Ssali is a reggae artiste as well as a businessman dealing in promotions and events management. Some women he interacts with in his line of duty send him suggestive messages that upset Gloria.
He confesses that she is quite jealous but has learnt that he's loyal. "We can count on each other. One thing about her is her honesty and the fact that she likes me for who I am," he says. But that's not all. Their shared interests and passions have reinforced their love.
When asked what drives him crazy about Gloria, Ssali smilingly says it's her generosity and thoughtfulness. In fact he also discloses that their wedding is in the offing, a reason he says will enable them celebrate their union with friends and fans.
Reggae's godfather Ras B. Ssali is a name that is synonymous with reggae music in Uganda. He has been at it for well over a decade and he loves what he does -singing and seeing reggae flourish. Fans prefer to call him the Rasta man.
If you want to talk about reggae, he could hold you around forever as he passionately talks about reggae. He is one of the people who have been at the forefront of propelling the reggae concept in the local market. He is a true Rastafarian and his music preaches love, unity and general society. He picks his inspiration from reggae legend, Alpha Blondie. This is discernible in his work. Born Geoffrey Ssali, Ras B. Ssali of the Blood Brothers Band is one of Uganda's earliest reggae voices. As early as 1989, he knew there was hope for the reggae genre in Uganda.
"A few of us had the heart for reggae. We came up as a group and wanted to relay positive messages through music. We felt that we could draw the attention of the crowds to the Aids scourge using reggae."
They did a song, which not only introduced them to the crowd but also had a message to send to the masses. It was called Immorality and for the youngsters then, Ras B. Ssali and Solomon Igona, it was one of their best moments because the hit was used for the various drives to sensitise the masses about the scourge. Later on, the duo adopted the stage name of Ssali Solis Blood Brothers. The group has since changed name to 'Roots Rockers.'
Born 38 years ago, Ras B tells of an eventful childhood but most of all, a passionate upbringing. His mother was tutor at Kibuli Demonstration School. He says he is very close to his mother and hardly tells a story, which does not start with her. "As a single mother, she sacrificed a lot to see me through school and cautioned me to always be patient and honest. I heeded to her words. That is why I have never cheated any person and have always had clean dealings with people," he said.

Proud to be Ugandan

2006-09-11T08:35:00.000+03:00

EDGAR R. BATTE
At first sight, Kakiiza might strike you as a Somali or a South Africa. But she is purely Ugandan. She is beautiful, selfless, intelligent and likes challenging situations. Ivy Kakiiza might not be a familiar name but she has made her mark in the Diaspora. She is the European Campaign Coordinator with Actionaid International. Her work among other issues involves advocacy for women's rights as well as trade justice. Nonetheless, she is a lady who is free with everyone. As a matter of fact she is always ready to listen and learn from anyone. She is an amazingly simple lady by nature. I discovered this as we went around visiting different communities and people with the Get on Board bus campaign. She was in the country to enhance the campaign as well as make comparisons with European cases. She loves children and she would generously listen to their experience, most times getting overwhelmed with emotion at their sad tales. This, she says, is one of the things she has learnt from her mother. Kakiiza, 29, hails from Kabale in South Western Uganda.At the age of four, Kakiiza's family left Uganda for Nairobi where her mother had got a job. This was the first time she ever travelled across the border. Little did she know that this was only the beginning of an endless travel story. Before she knew, she was going places. She attended her kindergarten in Nairobi, a town she says she loved. After three years, she moved on to Brussels in Belgium for a short while before she moved to London where she was not only introduced to a whole new life but started her basic school studies. She recounts that above all her mother, Faith Semitarabana, wanted her to give her the best upbringing. When she left Nairobi, she joined boarding school in England at Rookesburg Park, an all girls' school for her elementary education before she joined Westwing girls' School and Bristol for her high school, in London. She then went back to Brussels for her college before joining the prestigious Middlesex University still in South London. All throughout her school days, Kakiiza says one thing lay at the back of her mind. She had to work hard not to disappoint her mother who had single-handedly raised them (together with her other two siblings). At Middlesex University, she studied Politics and Philosophy.
DETERMINED: Ivy Kakiiza during her last trip to Uganda at Barlonyo Internally Displaced Person’s Camp. Kakiiza looks up to her mother as a role model. Photos by Wandera W’Ojumbo
Kakiiza has worked with IBM based in London as well as Webershand Wick Consultancy. "I was lucky that I immediately got a job and started working. IBM [International Business Machines] offered me a job as a consultant at their London base. It was good experience and I was there for a year before moving back to Belgium. That was in 2001. In Belgium, I worked for some International consultancy called Webershand for a year."She doesn't strike one as a Ugandan more so because of her accent which is foreign. Her general lifestyle also, is western but she occasionally made an exclamation in her mother tongue, which usually made heads turn. She hails from a family of four, two sisters and her mother. She says her great grandmother who she describes as a strong woman, lives with her bigger extended family. Her two other siblings are also out in the Diaspora. Vanessa Semitarabana King, who follows her lives in Liberia with her husband where they run joint family businesses. The other sister, Angella Semitarabana, lives in Brussels and works with IBM.
Patriotic"Sometimes when I tell people that I am from Uganda, they find it hard to believe me but I am a patriotic woman and I can tell you I love my mother country. I have made friends out there but I keep on coming back to check on my family and friends. I feel homesick at times," Kakiiza says. She adds that she has always had a passion for organisational work dealing with challenging issues. She says her work is all about engaging the South and North in terms of activities for programmes on issues like poverty eradication, HIV/Aids and debt cancellation. Asked about what has propelled her to such heights and repute, Kakiiza discloses that it has been hard work coupled with determination. She says she has always had a go-getter attitude and believed in herself. "I learnt this from my dear mother. As a single mother, she always encouraged us to believe in ourselves since she is a confident lady herself. “So as I grew up, this became a stronger reason to prove to her that I had heeded her advice. In life, I have also realised that it is actually very important to have self-drive," she says. It is obvious that her mother is her role model.As a young Africa lady working overseas, she says she has loved challenging herself to work hard to prove herself against men and learn from situations and the people she has met in her line of duty. This has helped her easily acclimatise with different environments and people. This has also been an avenue for her to make friends.
Representative"At some point I don't want to judge myself as being someone special. I want to think of myself as a woman doing a job and representing all that is good about being an African woman." She loves African crafts. The African bungles especially look good on her. She tells me she shops for these every time she comes around on her private trips to pay a visit to her family in Kabale. She has her country at heart and looks forward to retuning to Uganda one day. Meanwhile, she has a plan of buying one of her dream houses in Brussels. A peep into her lighter side reveals a playful big girl, if only she gets some time off her rather busy schedule.

Professor Jay, Chameleone bury hatchet

2006-09-11T08:33:00.001+03:00

EDGAR R. BATTE
Artistes Jose Chameleone and Tanzania's Professor Jay have made peace. And as if to provide tangible proof that the hatchet has been buried, the duo shared a stage, for the first time at Ange Noir on Thurday.
Friends again: Chameleone and professor Jay record their forthcoming song at No End Entertainment studios on Friday. Photo by Batte
Revellers could not hide their excitement and applauded the two as they performed Niasidieje, the song whose beats Chameleone is accused of having ripped and remixed into his song, Bomboclat.When contacted, the two disclosed that it was time to bury the hatchet and move on for the cause of harmony in the industry especially at a time when East African countries have started working together.
"It is so good to make peace. We are both big and ought to think about the image we hold out to the public. It's East Africa forward. We are now two big Js (Joseph and Jay)," they said of unison.
Chameleone took the initiative when he went down to Steak Out where Professor Jay had stopped over from the airport. The two made peace after a lengthy chat.
As a sign of reconciliation, they, on Friday, went down to No End entertainment studios where they started recording a song together. The stars revealed that their song titled Ndivyo Siyvo, would hit music shelves as soon as producer Henry Kiwuwa is through with it. The two also performed together at the Uganda Waragi-Steak Out street jam on Saturday.

Peter Miles outs new music

2006-09-11T08:33:00.000+03:00

EDGAR R. BATTE
When asked to define his style, Peter Miles says, "I do what comes from my inner heart. That is why I don't copy what's on the local market." And his music is unique and says it all. Born in a musical family, Peter Miles got inspired by his big brother, John Miles a.k.a Coco Banton whom he recognises for having shaped and made him. He introduced him to dancehall music, starting him off by teaching him how to play the bass and rhythm guitar plus the keyboard in addition to helping him perfect his vocal skills. Currently, a list of Uganda's top dancehall artistes is incomplete without his name. Peter Miles' music has also won him fame in the neighbouring Kenya where his One Time scooped the Best video award in Kenya's Kisima Awards in 2004. He was also nominated in the category of the best artiste from Uganda in the same year. Locally he has been nominated twice for best ragga artiste in the Pearl of Africa Music Awards, though he is yet to win.
Now, the Entebbe based star has something new coming out. You could have heard his latest single Love on the airwaves. He features his musical partner Menshan in this as well. "I am trying to put together an East African album and so far I have put out six tracks which include the gospel track Praise in which I feature Mr. Googz and Kristo Fabulous, Mukwano Gwa Bangi, Tanfako (Featuring Menshan), Muwala, Leya and another gospel track Yesu (featuring Kristo Fabulous)," Miles told It’s Friday. Peter Miles, who made his first recording Nakutaka way back in 2002, is also part of the talented artistes spotted by MTV base Africa. The local star has featured African star 2Face in the remix of his Rackus hit that he did with Navio. Courtesy of MTV base, Peter Miles anticipates collaborations with dancehall icons Beenieman and Wyclef Jean.

Pam kasiki excites Lira residents

2006-09-11T08:31:00.000+03:00

CROONING: DJ Michael and a dancer. Photo by Wandera W’Ojumbo
Bell Lager, Uganda Breweries flagship brand on Friday spiced up its Sales promotion in Lira town with a bash termed as the Bell Lager Kasiki ahead of the Pam Awards regional launch, with lots of entertainment featuring several artistes from Kampala.
The event, which took place at Crystal Discotheque in Lira town attracted hundreds of fans who danced the night away as they enjoyed Bell Lager. Artistes 'imported' from Kampala included Chagga, Red Banton and Entebbe based DJ Michael.
The curtain raisers were the lively City Rock Dancers who showcased a variety of dancing strokes leaving the crowd awed. By the time Chagga jumped on the stage, the crowds were already ecstatic and they danced to his popular tunes.
Bell Lager Brand Manager Oscar Mulira said the bash was to offer the beer brand's consumers in Lira a sneak preview of what was to be expected in the Pam Awards launch in Lira due the next day. Mulira said Bell lager has supported the music industry in Uganda, and the Pam Awards for the fourth year running.
"Bell Lager is proud to be associated with the music industry in this country. We understand the value our consumers attach to music as a way of life. We are therefore committed to continue supporting the industry," Mulira said.
Since the launch of this year's Pam Awards, Bell Lager has held the entertainment bashes for its consumers in the towns of Jinja and Lira. Residents left the venue after 4 a.m., awaiting the Pam Awards launch that was due the next day.

Orlandoh unveil his new look

2006-09-11T08:30:00.000+03:00

EDGAR R. BATTE

The last you could have heard of his was when he launched his Ssembera album at Hotel Equatoria sometime late last year. This time round local artiste, emperor Orlandoh has changed his look. The next time you bump into him, you might have to give him some good gawk. Welcome Orlandoh’s new look. The chubby star has a clean-shaven head and poses out timidly with dark shades, taking on an image you could probably have identified with the last time you watched Queen Latifah’s Set it Off.

In his words the Nakonkonna star said, “It is something I have wanted to do. It is still the same old emperor Orlandoh but with a clean head now. It has nothing to do with being Rastafarian. I have never been one. I just adopted the hairstyle as a style of rebranding Orlandoh as a product in the local showbiz.”

Well, it might be a little hard to get used to the new look of the local dancehall star after all the years he has worn dreadlocks. He also revealed that revellers will get to check his out his new image on his forthcoming tenth album dubbed Haki Yange, he expect to release and promote sometime soon.

Asked whether his family might possibly find it hard to get used to his new look, the chubby star laughed it off saying they spend more time with him than anyone and thus, he has already made a portrait for them to view every time they might want to view him. Emperor is famous for hits like Sirika Baby in which he featured singing partner, Menton Summer (R.I.P), Nakonkona, Mama Wange (a duo wit Jose Chameleone) only tom mention but a few.

Nakivubo roars as Simba clocks eight

2006-09-11T08:27:00.000+03:00

EDGAR R. BATTE
FARM MANAGER: Abdu Mulasi performs with his ‘wives.’ Photo by Eddie Chicco
The rapturous crowd at Nakivubo stadium were once again treated to another merry-making fete. Ekiggunda, loosely translated to mean a booming sound was the name of the concert, which waved local FM station Radio Simba to its eighth anniversary. Revellers could not ask for more. As early as 10 a.m. in the morning, gates were open for revellers who decided to start on the long night ahead of them quite early. The annual fete brings together one of the biggest crowds on the local scene and it only keeps growing by the year. This year, Ekiggunda was remarkably better organised, had a mammoth crowd and the fans had a good time. Robert Mbabazi, a cosmetologist won himself Shs1m when his number was drawn in the MTN raffle. At the fall of darkness, the grass had another story to tell. While the performances went on, couples romanced the night away oblivious of other people. Most of them were drunk by twilight.

Meet Kabelo at the Street Party

2006-09-11T08:25:00.000+03:00

EDGAR R. BATTE
The place to be tomorrow is Wilson Road. The street will be closed off to traffic, to create space for the Motorola Urban Massive street party. Channel O's Kabelo will be hosting the party that has been organised by KFM in conjunction with Motorola and Channel O. Gates open at midday and there will be performances by Juliana Kanyomozi, Bobi Wine, Bebe Cool and the Obsessions. Everyone is welcome and entrance is free of charge. You will have a chance to be on Channel O if you attend the party, on top of winning sleek Motorola mobile phones.During the week, KFM listeners have been winning Motorola mobile phones and Jkazoora will be giving out another state of the art Motorola during his afternoon show The Edge today. Jkazoora will co-host tomorrow's street party with Kabelo. Winners of V.I.P tickets will be able to attend an urban massive exclusive party where they will rub shoulders with Kabelo. Kabelo is here to film content for the Motorola Urban Massive show, a youth culture programme that premieres in August. The parties are meant to generate content for the Channel O show, Urban Massive. Expect to be on TV if you attend. The show will cover 11 different cities in Africa reflecting all things relevant to young people. In each episode, Kabelo's crew will visit nightclubs, bars, restaurants and also film at street parties like the one on Wilson Road tomorrow. Hope to see you there.

Loketo lee outs Mawe

2006-09-11T08:24:00.000+03:00

EDGAR R. BATTE
The former Karate champ caused excitement when he stepped on the stage in police attire to a salutation by the night's emcees Mosh and one Dembe Hebert. He did his Bigombe and We Don't Care hits before he launched his Mawe which led revellers onto the dance floor and others joining him on stage at Rock Katarina, Ntinda last Friday.
GUEST OF HONOUR: Salim Uhuru (R) with the day’s man Loketo Lee during the musician’s Mawe album launch on Friday. Photo by Edgar Batte
A visibly excited Loketo Lee, who is also 2005 Northern artiste of the year went on his knees and thanked fans for the support. The emcees then opened the C.D auctioning sessions where the chief guest Uhuru's Salim donated Shs 2m, Gulu LC5 Chairman Norbert Mao Shs500, 000, Member of Parliament Nusura Tiperu Shs 300,000, Youth Member of Parliament Dan Kidega Ushs200, 000 who were all absent. Fellow artiste Deejay Languna, who Loketo Lee introduced as his uncle, donated Ushs50, 000. The turn up was fair. 2006 female entrant Priscilla Kalibala and Fina Mugerwa excited guys with their pelvis moves and skimpy outfit. Other performances came from Angella Katatumba, Emperor Orlandoh, Bella, Chagga and Deejay Languna among others.

Lions eat up Cranes

2006-09-11T08:23:00.000+03:00

EDGAR R. BATTE
Hunks and babes: Fans watch the match between the Uganda Cranes and Morocco’s Atlas Lions at the Kampala Rugby Club on Saturday.
Off the pitch, one could not help but appreciate the yuppie trends
The stands and virtually every spot at Kampala Rugby Club were filled to capacity by the mixed crowd that turned up to watch the determinant game. The first half went on quite well in Uganda’s favour with a comfortable 3-0 till the last kicks of the second half.
How’s this? A young couple previews pictures of the match on their camera. Photos by Eddie Chicco
In attendance: UBL MD Baker Magunda (R) and Sports Minister Charles Bakabulindi.
At the climax of the game, it was emotional breakdown when the Cranes succumbed to the Moroccan rugby team, the Atlas Lions. A few cried their eyes out while the rest consoled themselves that in every game, there is always a loser and winner.
One thing though, you could not agree less at the fashion display on the pitch as the hippy girls graced the do with clothes that tightened their butts leaving little or no breathing space at all.
On average, it was a youthful crowd which livened up the pitch with some necessary noise to boost our boys. The guys hit the metallic stands in unison. It was simply the perfect mood and atmosphere as the sun made its way to the west. The game kicked of fat 4:30p.m.

Wea are a team: The Cranes and Atlas Lions help their colleagues score
Off the pitch, one could not help but appreciate the yuppie trends. The beautiful girls were worth every glimpse in their tight jeans outfit made complete with shades as some held onto their Bell Lager.
On their last weekend home, the wazzup lot did not miss out. With their trousers belted at waistlines, you could not miss them as they went about in their phoney accents and heavy slang.
In the crowd were notables such as Sports Minister Charles Bakabulindi, Aggrey Awori, Abdul Katuntu, UBL MD Baker Magunda, utl's Paul Hulsen, who at some moments, threw out composure and yelled out in excitement as the game took on a good turn. Music bellowed throughout and minutes to the end of the game, people were still streaming in.

A lawyer with a passion for music

2006-09-11T08:22:00.000+03:00

EDGAR R. BATTE
When you have love something, you have to go against all odds to live your dream. This is the story of advocate John Kabagambe. The lawyer has had to stand criticism from family members, because of his love for music, but he is not deterred. After his court sessions, John Kabagambe the lawyer becomes Jon K the musician. Jon K is probably not a name you have seen on the colourful posters publicising a big concert, but he is putting together a 10-track album, which he expects to release soon. A sample off his compilation reveals a gifted mind. He waxes his youthful voice to music styles like Rn'b, hip-hop, dancehall and African contemporary as he presents his message. On this forthcoming album he has worked with Klear Kut's Papito and Lyrical G.
His collection so far includes songs like Lugambo, which hits at naysayers who are always out to pull others down. He features Papito in this one. He explains his reason for singing (his hobby) and likens himself to a lark in Like a lark. He visits the hardships of city dwellers in Sente, brings out the lighter side of life in Party, Nakupa Penzi and Mpenzi and goes nationalistic in Africa, What's Wrong? in which he questions when Africa's problems will end. For the start, Jon K sounds average but anticipates working hard to establish a name in the music industry. So far his music videos have enjoyed some fair airplay on UBC and WBS television.