State House has reserved a table worth Shs3 million for Irene Namatovu’s upcoming “Strong Woman” concert, scheduled for August 21, 2026, at Serena Hotel in Kampala.
The payment was made by Joseph Mukasa Ssewava, the Special Envoy of the President on Buganda Affairs, who handed Shs3 million in cash to a representative of Namatovu during rehearsals at Eno Beats Studio in Makindye, Kampala.
Ssewava commended Namatovu for using her music to promote Ugandan culture, inspire young people and nurture emerging talent. He urged other musicians to emulate her example, describing her music as inspirational, family-friendly and focused on messages that contribute positively to society.
“This is not music of fighting with others, and it is not vulgar music. It is music that everyone would love to listen to because of the message it carries,” Sewava said.
He noted that Namatovu’s contribution to the entertainment industry goes beyond producing music, saying she has also invested in nurturing young musicians and helping them develop their talents.
Sewava pledged to speak to President Yoweri Museveni about considering Namatovu for a national medal in recognition of her contribution to Uganda’s entertainment industry.
“She is a strong woman, and what she has done for the entertainment industry deserves recognition,” he said.
Sewava also praised First Lady Janet Kataha Museveni as an example of a strong woman, saying the theme of Namatovu’s concert partly influenced State House’s decision to reserve a table for the event.
He said the First Lady appreciates music carrying positive and constructive messages and used the occasion to encourage musicians to produce songs that promote values and contribute to building society.
Sewava further urged musicians to avoid drug and substance abuse, warning that the belief that drugs can help artists become superstars is misguided.
He encouraged musicians to remain sober and disciplined, saying substance abuse can destroy their talents and undermine their careers.
In addition to the Shs3 million table already reserved, Sewava pledged to purchase two more tables, one for members of the media and another for security personnel.
He also commended the proprietor of Eno Beats Studio for the role the facility has played in developing Uganda’s entertainment industry.
However, Ssewava challenged the studio management to establish a SACCO for young people working at the facility so they can collectively access government financing programmes and use the funds to establish income-generating ventures in their respective communities.
He said such an initiative would enable young creatives to benefit from government programmes while creating sustainable livelihoods beyond the entertainment industry.
Namatovu’s “Strong Woman” concert is set for August 21 at Serena Hotel in Kampala, with the event expected to celebrate her music career and contribution to Uganda’s cultural and entertainment sector.
