Fast-rising Ugandan singer and songwriter Astar 95, born Nafunah Esther, is steadily carving out her place in the country’s competitive music industry, blending talent, education, and social impact into a growing brand.
Signed under MT Records, Astar 95 is not only a musician but also a trained teacher and philanthropist, a combination that continues to shape both her artistry and public image.
Early life and education
Astar 95 was born on July 10 and raised in Bulambuli District in Eastern Uganda, where her musical journey began at a young age. Growing up in a supportive family environment, she nurtured her passion through school activities, particularly in the choir.
She attended Hamdan Girls Secondary School and Masaba Secondary School for her Ordinary and Advanced level education. She later joined Uganda Christian University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education, majoring in Literature and English.
Her academic background has remained central to her identity, influencing both her songwriting and her commitment to mentorship.
Musical journey
Astar 95’s music career took root in school choirs, but over the past five years, she has transitioned into professional music, steadily building a name for herself, particularly in Eastern Uganda.
Her sound blends contemporary Ugandan rhythms with cultural influences, a style that has helped her stand out in a crowded industry.
She has released a number of notable songs, including collaborations with established Ugandan artistes such as Daddy Andre, Fefe Bussi, and Sama Sojah. Some of her popular tracks include “Nsonyi”, “Internationally”, “Ntwala”, “Ndi Fine”, “Omwana Wa Bandi”, and “Stay”.
Her latest release, “Weak Person”, is currently gaining traction, marking the first single off her eight-track EP titled Home & Away.
A new chapter with “Home & Away”
The “Home & Away” EP represents a significant milestone in Astar 95’s career, signalling her first major release of 2026 and a new phase under MT Records.
The project showcases her artistic growth, with Weak Person standing out for its emotional depth and relatable message. The track was produced by Chemical Ali Nicer, whose polished production complements Astar’s vocal delivery, while the visualiser—shot by Sydney Wala—adds a clean and engaging visual layer to the song.
With this project, Astar 95 continues to refine her sound and expand her reach beyond regional audiences.
Beyond music: empowering the girl child
Outside the studio, Astar 95 is also making an impact through her initiative, Girls Rising Uganda. As CEO, she leads a platform focused on empowering young people, with a particular emphasis on supporting the girl child.
The initiative promotes self-growth, opportunity creation, and positive social change, reflecting her broader vision of using her influence beyond entertainment.
Live performances and growing influence
In December last year, Astar 95 successfully hosted her maiden concert, “Astar 95 Live in Concert,” a milestone that underscored her growing fan base and stage presence.
The event marked a turning point in her career, reinforcing her ability to headline major shows and connect with audiences on a larger scale.
As she continues to rise, Astar 95 remains committed to preserving cultural identity through her music while embracing modern sounds. Her combination of talent, education, and advocacy positions her as one of the emerging female voices to watch in Uganda’s music scene.