Once upon a time, in a vibrant celebration of reggae music and the spirit of unity, Rastafarians in Uganda came together to commemorate the 79th birthday of the legendary Bob Marley.

The concert, aptly named Obuntu, took place at Casablanca Pub & Restaurant in Kololo, a city suburb and featured a lineup of both local and international reggae artistes such as Bebe Cool and Dr. Jose Chameleone.

The Rastafarian community in Uganda, known for their distinctive dreadlocks and devotion to the principles of peace, love, and unity, organised the concert to honour Marley's legacy.

The event was a testament to the enduring influence of Jamaican singer Bob Marley's music and philosophy, which has resonated deeply with Rastafarians around the world.                 

Iin an interview with a famous Rasta known for his numerous facial piercings, Ras Khan, he said he grew up listening to Bob Marley's music and it touched his heart as a Rastafarian.

"I had to attend in person to celebrate the legend because legends never die," he said.

The concert kicked off with an electrifying performance by Generale Zaabu, a rising star in the local reggae scene.

His soulful voice and powerful lyrics captivated the audience, setting the tone for an unforgettable night. As the crowd swayed to the rhythm, the atmosphere was charged with positive energy.

He was backed up by  Moza Band, a group known for their infectious beats and catchy melodies. Their fusion of traditional Ugandan sounds with reggae rhythms had the crowd on their feet, dancing and singing along.

The highlight of the evening came when Bebe Cool took the stage.

He brought the house down with his rendition of Marley's iconic hits. The crowd erupted in cheers as he belted out One Love and Redemption Song, creating an atmosphere of unity and togetherness.

Notably, the concert also saw the surprise appearance of singer Jose Chameleone. Chameleone, known for his versatility and ability to connect with diverse audiences, delivered a heartfelt tribute to Bob Marley.

"Marley's music transcends borders and unites people from all walks of life. His message of love and equality is as relevant today as it was decades ago," he remarked.

Throughout the night, the concertgoers were reminded of the importance of obuntu, a Bantu term meaning humanity or kindness. The Rastafarian community believes that embracing obuntu is the key to achieving peace and harmony in society. The concert served as a platform to spread this message, encouraging attendees to embody the principles of love, respect, and compassion.

As the concert drew to a close, the crowd erupted in applause, expressing their gratitude for the unforgettable experience. The celebration of Bob Marley's birthday had not only brought together reggae enthusiasts, but had also fostered a sense of unity among diverse communities in Uganda.

The Obuntu concert was a testament to the enduring legacy of Bob Marley and the power of music to transcend boundaries. Through their vibrant performances and heartfelt tributes, the artistes showcased the universal appeal of reggae music and the Rastafarian philosophy. As the night came to an end, the spirit of obuntu lingered, reminding everyone of the importance of love, unity, and the timeless message of Bob Marley's music.