After three decades of smooth sax, soul-stirring melodies, and mentoring a generation of Ugandan musicians, jazz maestro Isiah Katumwa is ready to mark his biggest milestone yet 30 Years of Ugandan Jazz. The landmark concert is set to take place on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at Serena Hotel Kampala.
But for Katumwa, this show is not just about music. It’s about meaning.
“This concert is bigger than my name,” he told the media during a press briefing. “It’s about honoring where I’ve come from, the people who lifted me, and the new generation I’m proud to walk beside.”
A Journey of Faith, Passion & Sound
Katumwa’s story began in 1995 when he joined the Waka Waka Band at Sheraton Kampala. Self-taught and fuelled by faith, his early days were far from glamorous but fans saw his potential.
“They called me Uganda’s sax wizard long before I was ready. But that belief kept me going,” he said.
Over the years, Katumwa has become one of Uganda’s most iconic music exports, blending African rhythm, jazz smoothness, and divine depth into a sound that’s uniquely his own.
“My music is African, smooth, and divine because I’m all three. Whether I’m playing in LA or Nairobi, I bring Uganda with me,” he said with pride.
The upcoming concert will showcase some of the best musical talent in Uganda, including Michael Kitanda, Joseph Sax, Naava Grey, Myco Ouma, and Moses Matovu. Together, they’ll perform on a stage that symbolizes the past, the present, and the promising future of jazz in Uganda.
“One of my proudest moments is standing beside these fantastic young artists. It’s not about me it’s about we. That’s what leadership means to me,” Katumwa said.
Vision Group Leads the Celebration
Vision Group, the official organizer, is pulling out all the stops to ensure an unforgettable experience. CEO Don Wanyama praised Katumwa’s legacy as a beacon of inspiration:
“Isaiah’s story mirrors the growth of Uganda’s music scene. This concert is about more than melodies it’s about cultural pride, creative excellence, and legacy.”
Sponsors Who Believe in Purpose
The show is proudly sponsored by Johnnie Walker, Tusker Malt, and Coca-Cola, with production by Fenon Records and support from Malembe, MD Branding, and Serena Hotel.
“Isaiah represents the kind of purposeful progress we believe in at Johnnie Walker,” said Francis Kirabira, Brand Rep for Johnnie Walker Green Label.
“He’s not loud about his success he walks with intent, and his story reflects that spirit.”
“Thirty years of jazz is no small feat,” added Denise Nazzinda, Premium Beers Manager at UBL. “Like Tusker Malt, Isaiah believes in taking time to master the craft. We’re proud to be part of this celebration.”
From sold-out shows to inspiring countless young musicians through platforms like Jazz FM and Beyond Music, Katumwa has made jazz a cultural cornerstone in Uganda.
“This is not the end it’s a new beginning,” he said. “It’s time for Ugandan jazz to take its place on the world stage.”
🎶 Event Details:
📍 Venue: Serena Hotel, Kampala
🗓️ Date: Sunday, July 20, 2025
🎟️ Tickets: UGX 250,000 (Regular), UGX 5,000,000 (VIP Table for 8)
👔 Dress Code: Classy, Elegant, and Jazzy
🌟 Lineup: Michael Kitanda, Joseph Sax, Naava Grey, Myco Ouma, Moses Matovu, and more
