Ugandan music icon Halima Namakula’s highly anticipated “Living Legends Gala” is officially set for July 26th, 2025, with preparations already in motion.
The grand celebration of Halima’s career in music, film, and humanitarian work spanning decades officially kicked off with a press conference on Tuesday at the Kampala Serena Hotel.
Speaking to the press and supporters, Halima, 65, expressed deep gratitude and excitement. “I really enjoy hearing people talk about me — it’s always nice to hear,” she said with a warm smile. “We chose July 26th for the celebration. As a Ugandan-American, I would love for people in the diaspora to join in, especially since it will be summer.”
Reflecting on her journey, Halima acknowledged the support that helped shape her career. “When I was starting out, I asked myself who would love and support me, and Next Media did. I’m so thankful to them for believing and standing by me,” she said.
“This is just the beginning. I’ve now started with my friends. The next press conference will be for musicians, and they are already aware.”
Kwezi Patrick, Actor and AfroMobile’s Acquisition Manager, praised Halima’s legacy and confirmed live coverage of the gala. “Halima is the only musician whose music I grew up loving so much,” he said.
“AfroMobile is Uganda’s fastest-growing streaming app, and we’re proud to support the #LivingLegendsGala. The event will be streamed live from start to end — all you need to do is download the app,” added Kwezi.
Veteran media personality Eddy Sendi called on Ugandans to come together in celebration. “A true legend is someone who has left a lasting legacy — and Halima has done that in music, film, and humanitarian work,” Sendi noted.
“On July 26th, let’s all come together, be present, celebrate, and bring Halima all the flowers. I’m so grateful to her for choosing me to be one of the people to speak about her today.”
Abby Mukiibi Nkaaga, a multi-award-winning actor, comedian, director, producer, and radio personality, affirmed the importance of the upcoming event: “We are here to talk about the #LivingLegendsGala, which will take place on the 26th of July at Kampala Serena Hotel.”
Uganda’s Peace Service Ambassador, Milton Kambula, stated: “We are going to celebrate Halima Namakula — she’s no longer just a mother, but a Living Legend.”
Halima’s daughter also shared her excitement, calling the event a “historic night” and “a celebration like no other.”
Who is Halima Namakula?
Halima Namakula is a celebrated Ugandan musician, actress, entrepreneur, and humanitarian whose career spans over five decades. Born on January 1, 1960, she is widely regarded as a pioneer and matriarch of Uganda’s entertainment industry—often referred to as “the mother of all artists.”
She began her artistic journey in school as a stage actress with the group “The Black Pearls” and later gained fame for her role as Michelle in the iconic Ugandan TV drama “That’s Life Mwattu.” After the death of her husband in 1994, she returned to Uganda and continued her work in film and music.
In music, she made her mark with several Afrobeat and world music albums under her label, No-End Entertainment, including hits like Ekimbeewo, Tonkutula, and Cheza (Sambagala).
Beyond entertainment, Halima is a committed humanitarian. She is the founder of Women At Work International, an NGO that empowers commercial sex workers by creating alternative job opportunities. Her influence also extended to radio broadcasting, though her station, Beat FM, faced regulatory issues in the early 2000s.
In 2009, Halima was crowned “Mrs Uganda” and went on to represent the country at the “Mrs World pageant” in Vietnam. She has received numerous accolades, including the Divas Lifetime Achievement Award and the New Vision & DFCU Woman Achiever of the Year Award.
Despite facing some controversies, Halima remains a revered icon in Uganda’s cultural landscape, known for her resilience, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to uplifting others through art and advocacy. The Living Legends Gala will not only honour her musical and humanitarian legacy but also serve as a reminder to appreciate cultural icons in their prime.
