By Our Reporter
On May 2, Uganda’s live music scene will witness a defining moment as Abeeka Band stages its first-ever independent concert at the Ndere Cultural Centre, marking not just a five-year milestone, but a bold statement for live bands in the country.
Widely regarded as one of Uganda’s finest session ensembles, Abeeka has built its reputation on versatility, musical precision, and an ability to transform familiar songs into immersive live experiences. Their Roots & Vibes concert will celebrate that journey, blending crowd favourites with tributes to the legends who have shaped Uganda’s musical landscape.
Adding weight to the night is the presence of Joanita Kawalya, the iconic Afrigo Band frontwoman whose voice and legacy continue to define generations of live music lovers. But beyond the music, the concert also signals the continued evolution of brand-backed live experiences in Uganda, with Tusker Malt Lager and The Singleton stepping in as headline sponsors, two brands that have, in recent years, become deeply embedded in the country’s live entertainment ecosystem.
For Tusker Malt, the Abeeka concert is a natural extension of a long-standing commitment to nurturing and elevating live music in Uganda. Through platforms like the Tusker Malt Band Nights, the brand has consistently created spaces where live bands can thrive, transforming everyday nightlife into curated musical experiences that prioritize craft, authenticity, and connection. These events have not only spotlighted bands like Abeeka but have also taken live music beyond Kampala, building audiences in cities across the country.
Beyond the stage, initiatives like Tusker Malt Conversessions with Swangz Avenue have further reinforced the brand’s investment in music culture, offering intimate, high-quality sessions that celebrate artistry and storytelling.
Sandra Againe, the Tusker Malt Brand Manager notes: “Tusker Malt has always believed in the power of live music as a cultural connector. Over the years, we’ve worked to create platforms that celebrate real musicianship and give artists the space to grow. Supporting Abeeka’s first independent concert is a continuation of that journey, recognising a band that embodies the very spirit of craft and excellence that Tusker Malt stands for.”
While Tusker Malt’s legacy lies in building scale and accessibility, The Singleton has carved out its niche in curating premium, intimate experiences, often at the intersection of music, fine dining, and lifestyle.
From curated dining events to elevated Band Nights, The Singleton has positioned itself in spaces where audiences are not just entertained, but immersed. Its involvement in the Abeeka concert signals an intentional layering of experience, bringing refinement and depth to the night.
Simon Lapyem, The Singleton East Africa’s Brand Manager shares: “At The Singleton, we are passionate about creating experiences that bring people together over great music, food, and conversation. Abeeka’s Roots & Vibes concert aligns perfectly with that vision, it’s intimate, intentional, and rooted in artistry. We’re proud to be part of a moment that celebrates both heritage and progression in Uganda’s live music scene.”
The Abeeka concert is, in many ways, a convergence point of talent, legacy, and brand-backed cultural investment. It reflects a growing shift in Uganda’s entertainment landscape, where live music is no longer just a feature of nightlife, but a headline experience in its own right.
With Tusker Malt bringing its legacy of supporting live bands and The Singleton adding its signature premium touch, Roots & Vibes promises to be more than a five-year celebration, it is a statement about where live music in Uganda is headed.
On May 2, at Ndere Cultural Centre, Abeeka Band won’t just be performing. They’ll be marking a moment, one that underscores the power of consistency, collaboration, and the evolving relationship between brands and culture.