By Peter Luzinda
Ugandan gospel musician and pastor Judith Babirye has once again captured public attention after a video of her surprise 48th birthday celebration went viral on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
In the circulating clips, Babirye is seen thanking deacons, elders and others present, suggesting a church environment. Although the organizers of the event have not been officially confirmed, Babirye is the senior pastor at New Life Deliverance Church in Makindye Division, Kampala, a church she helped establish in 2010.
This has led many to believe that members of her congregation were behind the celebration. Here are some photos from her birthday party.During the emotional moment, Babirye expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying:
“I thank God that for everything that I did not achieve when I was young he has rewarded to me while I am a grown-up person as an adult. Throughout my life I have never been given a birthday shower but here we are, and I didn’t know that it feels this good. It feels so nice and I’m so happy that I have met all of you here. I am happy that I have met some of you whom I have taken along without seeing. I had already forgotten about my celebrity life. But now here we are.”
The video has sparked admiration from fans and renewed interest in Babirye’s journey from gospel singer to church leader and politician.
Early Life and Education
Judith Babirye was born on 23 September 1977 in Nyenga, Buikwe District, in Uganda’s Busoga Region. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mukooza. Babirye attended Nalinya Lwantale Primary School in Luweero District before joining Ndejje Secondary School for her O-Levels, where she began showcasing her musical talent. In Senior Two, she composed the school anthem, an achievement she would repeat at Iganga Secondary School where she completed her A-Levels. She later graduated from Makerere University in 2001 with a Bachelor of Arts in Tourism.
Music Career: Beginnings, Breakthrough and Impact
Babirye’s formal entry into music began in the early 2000s. Her debut single “Beera Nange,” released in 2006, became an instant hit and earned her the Best Gospel Single award at the Pearl of Africa Music Awards that year. She went on to release several successful albums, including Yesu Asobola (2007), Nzijukira (2008) and Wanjagala (2011).Some of her most beloved songs include Wambatira, Omusaayi gwa Yesu, Ekitibwa Kyo Mukama, Maama, “Wanonda” and “Eno Mbaga.” These tracks have become staples in churches and at Christian gatherings, weddings and other celebrations. Her music’s emotional depth has inspired many, and some couples have used her songs during their wedding ceremonies because of their uplifting and faith-centered themes.Founding New Life Deliverance Church
In 2010, Babirye expanded her ministry by founding New Life Deliverance Church along Salaama Road in Makindye Division. She serves as senior pastor alongside Pastor Joseph Kabuye, leading services, preaching and praying for the sick while continuing her musical ministry.Political Career and Its Aftermath
In 2016, Babirye entered politics and was elected Woman Member of Parliament for Buikwe District in Uganda’s 10th Parliament. However, her time in politics proved to be one of the most challenging periods of her life. She served only one term and did not contest again in 2021.
Babirye has since spoken openly about her regrets over joining politics. In interviews, she has said the experience negatively affected her music career, her freedom to associate with old friends and her work as a servant of God. She noted that being a member of the ruling party automatically positioned her as a rival to some of her former associates, and that she lost valuable relationships during her political tenure.
Personal and health challenges also played a role in her exit from politics. After her second marriage to fellow politician Paul Musoke Ssebulime fell apart, she relocated to Canada around 2019–2020. In 2024, she earned a master’s degree in Immigration Studies and announced new music, signaling a fresh chapter in her life.
Personal Life
Babirye was first married to Samuel Niiwo, with whom she has a daughter. The marriage ended in separation, after which she married Paul Musoke Ssebulime in 2018. That relationship also later dissolved. Despite these personal challenges, Babirye has remained a prominent voice in Uganda’s gospel music scene and continues to inspire her audience.Legacy and Continuing Influence
Judith Babirye’s journey from schoolgirl composing anthems to award-winning gospel singer, pastor and former Member of Parliament is a testament to resilience and faith. Her songs—powerful, emotional and rooted in spirituality—have transcended the church to become part of Uganda’s cultural fabric, influencing weddings, celebrations and personal devotion alike.
With her new music and renewed focus on ministry, Babirye stands as an enduring figure in Ugandan gospel music, demonstrating that even after political setbacks and personal trials, a calling can still be lived out with grace and impact.