Makoma rekindle memories at Miracle Centre ahead of Kololo concert

Excitement filled Miracle Centre Cathedral in Rubaga, Kampala last night as the Makoma band paid a courtesy visit to the church, reconnecting with Pastor Robert Kayanja ahead of their highly anticipated concert at Kololo Independence Grounds.

The visit was made together with a delegation from Vision Group led by Lorraine Tukahirwa, the Head of Marketing and Communications, as part of activities marking the Newvision’s 40-year celebrations.

Natalie Makoma addressing believers at Miracle Centre Cathedral as Pengani Makoma looks on. Photo by Simon Peter Tumwine

For Pastor Kayanja, the moment carried deep memories of Makoma’s first visit to Uganda 25 years ago.

Reflecting on that time, he recalled how the group’s music brought hope to a country emerging from difficult times. “I came with Pastor Jessica and my little twins, Robert among them. The children had just come from school and we took them along because the concert felt like a message of hope to a country that had gone through war.”

Senior Pastor Robert Kayanja of Miracle Centre Cathedral dancing as Natalie Makoma and Pengani Makoma of the Makoma Band. Photo by Simon Peter Tumwine

He added that after their performance at the then Nile Hotel, the gospel group visited his church, which was still under construction. “We had not even finished the roof. In fact, we were still in the foundation stages. Those were very early days, but we thank God,” he recalled.

“Forty years later the Lord brings them back again. I want to thank New Vision and its leadership for reaching 40 years. In the Bible, 40 represents a new chapter,” he said. “Just like the children of Israel spent 40 years in the desert before crossing into the promised land, I believe this is a new season.”

Makoma performing at Miracle Centre Cathedral, Rubaga. Photo by Simon Peter Tumwine

He also reminisced about how Ugandans embraced Makoma’s music despite language barriers. “Most of their songs were in Lingala and many of us didn’t understand the words,” he said with a smile. “But Uganda fell in love with Lingala long ago. We simply danced to the music without even knowing what the words meant. Their songs were prayers and the music connected with people.”

Speaking during the visit, Natalie Makoma, expressed joy at returning to Uganda. She reflected on how the group started their ministry as very young singers passionate about sharing the gospel.

Makoma performing at Miracle Centre Cathedral, Rubaga. Photo by Simon Peter Tumwine

Natalie, the most vocal member of the group of siblings, also used the moment to invite Ugandans to the concert scheduled for Friday. “On Friday we are going to celebrate again,” she said.

 
Pastor Kayanja also rallied the public to attend the event. “Come and celebrate with them on Friday at Kololo as New Vision marks 40 years. It will be a special moment of worship and thanksgiving,” he said.

Pastor Robert Kayanja of Miracle Centre Cathedral posing for a photo with Pengani Makoma(L) Natalie Makoma of the Makoma Band. Photo by Simon Peter Tumwine

The visit ended on a joyful note as Makoma had a cameo performance of their hit, Napesi, which had Kayanja join them in dance.

 
According to Natalie, the rest of the band members will arrive later today.