Uganda has a lively music industry with several big-name artists who have dominated the scene for decades. However, a major question arises: which male Ugandan artist has the star power to fill the country’s biggest stadium, Mandela National Stadium (Namboole), if they were to stage a concert there?
The stadium, with a capacity of 45,202 (and expandable to 50,000), is the largest public event venue in Uganda.
Over the years, artists have preferred other locations such as Lugogo Cricket Oval (20,000 capacity), Freedom City (10,000 capacity), and Nakivubo Stadium (now Hamz Stadium, 35,000 capacity). But who among Uganda’s top male artists could fill Namboole?
The conversation about Uganda’s biggest musicians is often centered around Jose Chameleone, Bebe Cool, Bobi Wine—‘Big 3’ and Eddy Kenzo. Each of these artists has made a lasting impact on the industry, but their ability to fill Namboole differs.
1. Bobi Wine
Bobi Wine’s music has long been appreciated by Ugandans, especially the youth. His transition into politics and leadership of Uganda’s biggest opposition party has only increased his influence.
Given the chance, Bobi Wine could likely fill Namboole due to his mass appeal among the suffering and politically charged population.
However, he has been banned from performing in Uganda, making it impossible for him to test this theory.
2. Jose Chameleone
With a career spanning over 20 years, Jose Chameleone has arguably the richest music catalog in Uganda.
His songs appeal to all generations—young, middle-aged, and old—making him a strong contender.
His ability to draw fans from different age groups could work in his favor if he were to stage a concert at Namboole.
3. Bebe Cool
Like Chameleone, Bebe Cool has been in the industry for decades and has a solid fan base.
However, his open support for the ruling government has made him a controversial figure.
While he has loyal fans, his political stand might make it difficult for him to pull a crowd large enough to fill Namboole.
4. Eddy Kenzo
Eddy Kenzo is the youngest among the four and the most successful after the “Big 3.”
He has built a strong fan base, particularly among the youth, who are the most active concertgoers.
His Eddy Kenzo Festival at Kololo Airstrip was a major success, proving his ability to pull huge crowds. If any artist from this list has the potential to fill Namboole in the current music landscape, Kenzo could be a strong candidate.
Who can really fill Namboole?
If all factors were equal, Bobi Wine would likely fill the stadium due to his widespread appeal. However, since he is banned from performing, the next best option would be either Jose Chameleone or Eddy Kenzo.
Chameleone’s deep music catalog and cross-generational appeal give him an advantage, while Kenzo’s youthful following and recent concert success make him a strong contender.
So, who do you think can truly fill Namboole?
