Kirk Whalum and Isaiah Katumwa to Serenade Kampala Tonight at dfcu Jazz in the Pearl

The rooftop terrace of dfcu Bank’s headquarters in Nakasero was buzzing with excitement on Friday as jazz lovers, media personalities, and cultural influencers gathered for the official press conference ahead of this weekend’s highly anticipated dfcu Jazz in the Pearl Festival.

Scheduled for today, Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the elegant Serena Hotel Kampala, the festival promises an unforgettable night headlined by Grammy-winning saxophonist Kirk Whalum, who will perform alongside Uganda’s very own jazz maestro, Isaiah Katumwa—a name now synonymous with premium jazz experiences around the globe.

At the event, Whalum expressed a heartfelt connection to Uganda, describing his return as deeply personal. “When I come to Uganda and play jazz, I feel like I’m paying back a debt,” he shared. “There’s a different energy here—a deeper connection. It’s like coming home, like being a child again, full of wonder.”

Saturday’s festival is more than just a concert. It’s an immersive experience where smooth jazz, soulful narratives, and African rhythm converge under the stars, with the Kampala skyline as a breathtaking backdrop. Also performing are Tshaka Mayanja and the Black Roots Academy of Soul, adding a rich, soulful groove to the lineup.

At the heart of the celebration is dfcu Bank, whose CEO Charles Mudiwa spoke of the unifying power of music: “In Africa, we don’t just listen to music—we live it. This festival is more than an event; it’s a shared journey of culture, rhythm, and identity.”

Festival founder Isaiah Katumwa said the vision behind Jazz in the Pearl is to elevate Uganda’s status on the global cultural map. “This festival is about building a cultural landmark—an elegant showcase that positions Uganda as a hub for creativity, sophistication, and musical excellence.”

Helena Mayanja, dfcu Bank’s Head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, confirmed that this is just the beginning: “This isn’t a one-time celebration. dfcu Jazz in the Pearl will become an annual tradition—honouring musical brilliance and African cultural expression every year.”

Whether you’re a lifelong jazz enthusiast or simply seeking a magical night out, dfcu Jazz in the Pearl is poised to be a landmark cultural experience.

The festival begins at 6 PM on Saturday, May 10, at Serena Hotel Kampala. Dress to impress, open your heart to the rhythm, and prepare for a night where jazz meets the soul of Africa.