An Unforgettable Night: Isaiah Katumwa’s 30-Year Jazz Celebration

Deputy Speaker Tayebwa shared a personal touch: "Isaiah played at my wedding. Now, he’s a global ambassador for Ugandan talent. Tonight, we honor that journey."

A wholesome evening spent with the master of Jazz Isaiah Katumwa (Photos by Moses Nsubuga and Eddie Ssejjoba)

By NewVision Reporter

Journalists @NewVision

#Isaiah Katumwa #30th anniversary concert #Vision Group

________________

The Kampala Serena Hotel buzzed with anticipation as jazz lovers filled the venue. The night promised something special—three decades of Isaiah Katumwa’s music, and it delivered.

Katumwa stepped on stage to thunderous applause, saxophone in hand. The crowd was hooked from the first note.

Music hits differently when shared. Every melody resonated, every rhythm connected. From VIP to the back row, the room was packed—no empty seats, just pure energy.

Katumwa, joined by Charmant Mushaga and Naava Grey, kept the crowd captivated. Even former Ethics Minister Miria Matembe was on her feet, dancing without a care.

When the music moves you, you don’t just listen—you sing, you clap, you dance. And dance they did.

The performances were flawless. Eyes stayed locked on the stage, the crowd pulled deeper into the experience with every song.

Faces in the crowd included Stephen Asiimwe (Private Sector Foundation Uganda), tourisn guru Amos Wekesa, Jimmy D. Mugerwa (dfcu Group), John Musinguzi (URA), Don Wanyama (Vision Group), and Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa. British High Commissioner Lisa Chesney and Frederieke Quispel also enjoyed the show.

Don Wanyama, Vision Group CEO, thanked the audience and sponsors—Johnny Walker, Tusker Malt, and Coca-Cola—for backing the event. "Your presence supports not just Isaiah, but Uganda’s creative industry," he said. "Thirty years of consistency, class, and excellence—tonight, we celebrate that legacy."

Deputy Speaker Tayebwa shared a personal touch: "Isaiah played at my wedding. Now, he’s a global ambassador for Ugandan talent. Tonight, we honour that journey."

The supporting acts set the tone perfectly. Myko Ouma lost himself in the guitar and endingidi. Mark Langa’s saxophone left the crowd wanting more. Robert Aduba’s opening performance was a masterclass in setting the mood.

Then came the climax. Katumwa stepped offstage, weaving through the crowd, saxophone singing. The room erupted—everyone on their feet, dancing, lost in the moment.

With gratitude, Katumwa thanked his fans for filling the room. "You made this night unforgettable."

A final thanks to the sponsors, the artists, and most of all—the fans. History was made.

From the first note to the last, the night was magic. Thirty years of jazz, celebrated in style. #30YearsOfUgandanJazz