WHERE: Kampala Serena Hotel
By Nicholas Akasula
Pomp, colour, fun, music, drama and the Gospel filled the air as Pastor Wilson Bugembe celebrated 20 years in gospel music.
The landmark celebration for the iconic pastor drew a massive audience.
Initially planned as a two-day event, the organisers extended it to three days due to the overwhelming demand. Kampala Serena Hotel hosted on Friday and Saturday, followed by Worship House, Nansana, on Sunday, taking place on 8th, 9th, and 10th August respectively.
The historic celebration cemented Pastor Bugembe’s place as a leading figure in Ugandan Gospel music. Despite relatively high ticket prices, Shs120,000 at Serena and Shs50,000 at Nansana—the turnout remained remarkable. For those abroad, special arrangements were made at a fee of USD150 to stream the event live.
On day one (Friday), the guest of honour was the Buganda Premier, Charles Peter Mayiga. Saturday’s event welcomed John W. Katende, founder of The Ebonies drama group, as chief guest.
After a series of curtain-raisers by performers including Apostle Jonathan Barbara, Pastor Twina Herbert, and Mesach Semakula, Pastor Bugembe took to the stage with a musical journey through the years. He thrilled the crowd with timeless hits such as Kani, Bwalikujjukila, Wandibadde Mufu, and Amavivi Tegalimba, among others.
The celebration attracted several dignitaries and pastors. A fitting climax came with the Streams of Life Choir from Kennedy Schools, famed for Oluyimba Lukusuuta, whose performance received a standing ovation. The concert came to a close at midnight, marking two decades of faith, music and ministry.
