- Isaiah Katumwa, Uganda’s iconic jazz saxophonist, marks 30 years in the industry with a landmark concert on July 20, 2025, at Kampala Serena Hotel.
- Beyond celebrating Katumwa’s legacy, the concert highlights the evolution of Ugandan jazz, mentorship of rising artists, and cultural pride. It’s a powerful tribute to three decades of music, mentorship, and inspiration.
Renowned saxophonist Isaiah Katumwa has promised Ugandans a night of unforgettable music and inspiration as he prepares to celebrate a remarkable milestone 30 Years of Ugandan Jazz with a grand concert slated for Sunday, July 20th, 2025, at the prestigious Kampala Serena Hotel.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, Katumwa described the upcoming event as more than a personal milestone.
“This concert is bigger than my name,” he said. “It’s about the past, present, and future of jazz in Uganda. It’s about lifting others as I rise.” With visible emotion, the self-taught musician recalled his humble beginnings in 1995 performing with the Waka Waka Band at Sheraton Kampala. Despite his early challenges, public faith in his talent fueled his journey.
“They called me Uganda’s sax wizard even before I truly was. That belief pushed me forward,” he shared. Katumwa credits his rise not only to faith and resilience but to the unwavering support of Ugandans and venues like Serena Hotel — which hosted his first major shows as early as 2007.
“Back then, no Ugandan artist was doing solo concerts at Serena. Today, it’s become home to my musical journey,” he said. Beyond the stage, Katumwa has poured his heart into mentoring young talent through platforms like Beyond Music, Jazz with Isaiah, and Jazz FM. He emphasized that his 30-year journey has always been about building something greater than himself.
“It’s not just about counting years. It’s about what we contribute how we pour into others.” The highly anticipated concert will feature a rich lineup of Uganda’s top jazz and soul musicians including Michael Kitanda, Joseph Sax, Naava Grey, Myco Ouma, Happy Kyazze, and the legendary Moses Matovu.
“One of my proudest moments is standing beside these incredibly talented young people and sharing the spotlight with them,” Katumwa said. “It’s no longer about me it’s about we.” Vision Group, the official organizer of the event, has promised a night to remember. CEO Don Wanyama expressed the company’s pride in supporting such a landmark occasion.
“This is more than a music event it’s a celebration of excellence, cultural pride, and an enduring legacy,” Wanyama said. “Isaiah’s story mirrors Uganda’s creative journey and shows what’s possible with passion and purpose.”
He added that the event reflects Vision Group’s broader mission to support Ugandan arts and talent.
The concert is sponsored by Johnnie Walker, Tusker Malt, and Coca-Cola, with additional support from Malembe, Fenon Records, Serena Hotel, MD Branding, and Mitsubishi Motors.
“Isaiah Katumwa is a living embodiment of the kind of progress we champion at Johnnie Walker,” said Francis Kirabira, Brand Representative for Johnnie Walker Green Label. “His journey is steady, purposeful, and filled with intention — just like our Keep Walking mantra.”
Denise Nazzinda, Premium Beers Manager at UBL, added: “Isaiah’s 30 years mirror our own commitment to craft and excellence at Tusker Malt. We’re proud to walk this journey with him.”
Event Manager Phiona Tamale of Vision Group gave a sneak peek into what fans can expect: “This isn’t just a concert. It’s a celebration of 30 years of musical excellence. Expect a night of powerful collaborations, world-class jazz, and Isaiah’s signature sound that has inspired generations. Uganda has never seen a show quite like this.”
Date: Sunday, July 20th, 2025
Venue: Kampala Serena Hotel
Tickets: UGX 250,000 (General), UGX 5,000,000 (VIP Table of 8)
Dress Code: Elegant, Jazzy & Classy
