Stecia Mayanja delivers unforgettable comeback show

After nearly a decade away from the local music scene, Stecia Mayanja made a powerful and emotional comeback at her long-anticipated ‘Hajjat Stecia Live Concert’, held at the Victoria Hall of Serena Hotel in Kampala.

Jackie Abwol, Marketing Manager at FlexiPay, perfectly captured the night’s essence:

“It was a masterpiece that united both urban and traditional audiences. It showcased the true spirit of Uganda.”

Maureen Nantume and Hajjati Stecia Mayanja after embracing each other. Photo by Ignatius Kamya

At exactly 8:10 p.m., event hosts Miles Rwamiti and Rebecca Jjingo took the stage with infectious energy, kicking off the evening with the national anthem and light-hearted banter that set a celebratory tone.

Without any curtain-raisers, Hajjat Stecia Mayanja made a grand entrance, dazzling in a golden hijab, and opened her first set with the fan-favorite “Tulimumpaka.” What followed was a heartfelt performance of her signature hits, including Akatutunu, Sinsubira, Silinda Bidde, Allah Kareem, Ojira Olindako, Mwami Wange, Tosala Gwa Kalenzi, and Wandaludde.

Hajjati Stecia Mayanja performing alongside Charles Ssekyewa. Photo by Ignatius Kamya

Blending live band arrangements with theatrical skits, Stecia infused storytelling into her performance, creating a deeply immersive experience. A standout moment came when Charles Ssekyewa joined her on stage for their duet Wabanswaliza, sparking thunderous applause and spontaneous dancing before Stecia took a well-deserved break.

She returned for a culturally rich second session, this time adorned in traditional Kiganda attire. The night continued with surprise guest appearances by Catherine Kusasira and Ronald Mayinja, who took the audience on a nostalgic journey with their timeless hits, prompting sing-alongs and swaying memories.

Revellers enjoying Hajjati Stecia Mayanja's performance. Photo by Ignatius Kamya

Revellers enjoying Hajjati Stecia Mayanja's performance. Photo by Ignatius Kamya

For her final set, Stecia made a stunning reappearance in a white-and-gold hijab to perform her hit “Equalizer.” Her vocals soared as she delivered high-energy renditions of Fitting, Kabalagala, Sofa Set, Remote, Kawompo, Kuma Figure, Kantinti, Bitambula, and more.

Another emotional highlight came when she performed gospel songs by Judith Babirye and Pastor Wilson Bugembe, explaining that these tracks reflect the personal trials she endured during her time overseas.

For once, this was a Stecia Mayanja showcase that centered on her music rather than her physical appearance—and that, indeed, was a very welcome and refreshing change.