Pulse Contributor

Moses King

While addressing the press on Wednesday,<a href="https://www.pulse.ug/search?q=uganda+airlines"> Uganda Airlines</a> Chief Executive Officer Jennifer Bamutaraki noted that the new routes will be launched in September this year.

She explained that the new routes are a strategic decision in the national carrier’s long-term expansion plans.

“The entry into these markets is to build an efficient and optimized regional market to feed and finance a more profitable long- haul market for the airline as we grow our fleet and its utilization,” Bamuturaki said before adding.

“The new services also mark the second phase of our network development and attest to our mission to bring affordable air travel to Ugandans for business and leisure. They also lay the groundwork for the final phase, during which we shall expand our footprint to points in Europe and Asia.”

Abuja, Nigeria, will launch on September 12, 2024, with flights operated every Sunday and Thursday.

Flights to Lusaka, Zambia, and Harare , Zimbabwe, will launch on September 25, 2024, and will operate four times a week on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

The routes are expected to boost revenue by 10%.

The new routes add to the existing ones to Bujumbura, Dar es Salaam, <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/business/uganda-airlines-to-commence-flights-to-abu-dhabi/wtcsbbk">Dubai</a>, Johannesburg, Juba, Kilimanjaro, Kinshasa, Lagos, Mogadishu, Mombasa, Mumbai, Nairobi, and Zanzibar to expand the national carrier to 16 destinations.

Uganda Airlines launched new routes on Wednesday

Uganda Airlines has launched new routes to Abuja, Lusaka and Harare.

Uganda Airlines launches new routes to Abuja, Lusaka, Harare

While speaking to Sanyuka TV, the Tuli Bito singer left fans in suspense when asked whether he was considering contesting for a Member of Parliament position.

&nbsp;Rumours say Benda is planning on contesting for the Kira Municipality seat currently occupied by Hon. Ssemujju Nganda.

“Who told you I’m contesting for Member of Parliament?” He pondered before adding.

“I don’t know if I will join Parliament but let us leave it at that. I was just born in Kira and I’m not a leader there. I’m just a leader in many other things but not politics.”

Check out: <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/nina-roz-to-contest-for-mp-in-sembabule/m9nlqzs">Nina Roz announces parliamentary bid for Sembabule</a>

He added that leaders who are not delivering services for their people will be voted out.

Benda sparked debate recently after he visited Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon. Anita Among, at the August House.

A section of social media users noted that the singer could be lobbying for support for his political interests.

However, Benda clarified that he is the leader of a school and Parliament, through the speaker, had made a generous donation through its Corporate Social Responsibility arm.

The speaker pledged to contribute to the construction of the boy’s dormitory and reportedly handed over a commitment of Shs20 million.

“The process is ongoing. The first donation was made through the person she delegated. It is CSR,” she said.

Several singers, including Catherine Kusasira, Viboyo Oweyo, and King Saha, are reportedly set to contest for elective positions.

Tuli Bito singer Tugume Wycliffe, aka Ykee Benda, could neither confirm nor deny harbouring political interests ahead of the 2026 general elections.

Ykee Benda speaks out on alleged political interests

In a message also published on X, Museveni conveyed his sympathies to the 45th president of the United States of America, describing the incident as a despicable and cowardly assassination attempt.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“On behalf of the Government and people of Uganda, and on my own behalf, I wish to convey our deep and heartfelt sympathies to His Excellency. At the same time, I condemn this despicable and cowardly assassination attempt that put his life and that of his supporters at risk,” he said before adding.

“I also extend my deepest condolences to the family that lost their loved one. As freedom fighters and peace-lovers, we condemn political violence because it threatens democracy wherever it manifests.”

“I wish His Excellency and all those injured a speedy recovery. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.”

The assassination attempt on Trump's life was made on Saturday, July 13, 2024, during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

The shooting occurred shortly after Trump took the stage at around 6 p.m. EST. Several loud pops were heard, and Secret Service agents quickly escorted Trump off the stage, with blood visible on his face. Video footage from the rally appears to show Trump reacting to something hitting his ear before he briefly pumped his fist at the crowd and was led away.

The shooter was identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, a registered Republican voter in Pennsylvania.

Former President Donald Trump sporting a huge bandage on the first day of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.Evan Vucci/AP

Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni has joined world leaders in condemning the attempted assassination of former American president and Republican Party presidential candidate Donald Trump.

Museveni condemns Donald Trump assassination attempt

<ul><li>Bruno K believes that asking for more than friendship from Faridah Nakazibwe would end their close relationship</li><li>He values Nakizibwe's privacy and respects their friendship without mixing romance and friendship</li><li>Nakazibwe denied relationship rumors with Bruno K and mentioned that his presence helps keep her personal life private</li></ul>

While speaking with<a href="https://www.pulse.ug/search?q=kasuku"> vlogger Kasuku</a>, Bruno K explained that he does not mix friendship with love affairs as the two are incompatible.

"Ugandans don't differentiate between friendship and love,” he said before adding.

“Personally, I wouldn't be friends with Nakazibwe now if I ever asked her for love. Kasuku, I don't mix friendship with romance and sex because the two don't work together.”

Bruno maintained that he values Nakizibwe’s privacy and both of them have grown in mutual respect for each other’s private lives despite their closeness.

While<a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/celebrities/being-close-to-baby-bruno-k-has-helped-me-hide-my-lover-faridah-nakazibwe/leffze6#:~:text=Their%20friendship%20started%20when%20Bruno,He%20even%20titled%20it%20Faridah.&amp;text=%22Bruno%20became%20my%20friend%20promising,needed%20help%20with%20a%20child."> interviewing Zari recently, Nakazibwe also denied relationship rumours with Bruno</a>, noting that the singer’s presence in her life has helped her ‘hide her man’ from public attention.

Zari asked Faridah Nakazibwe: "The rumours I hear about Bruno K... are they true?"

Nakazibwe responded: "Bruno is just a friend... He is just a baby... please, leave me alone. But it has helped me. Because now they pay attention to him, they don't know who I'm dating."

According to Nazibwe’s recent interview, their friendship started when Bruno approached her and told her he was planning to work on a song inspired by her. He even titled it Faridah.

Later, Bruno told her that Brielle's mother, Rachael Nasasira, was sick. [Brielle is Bruno K's daughter.]

"Bruno became my friend, promising he's going to sing a song titled Faridah. We became friends when he needed help with a child. Young man. He is single. When he told me my baby mama is sick and they are going to give me my child to stay with her. I asked him, what are you going to do with the kid? Are you going to live with her in your situation? You have nowhere to start from, you may not even know how to cook. bring her here," Nakazibwe said in an interview.

Bruno K and Faridah Nakazibwe maintain they are just friends

Bruno K believes that asking for more than friendship from Faridah Nakazibwe would end their close relationship

I would have lost Faridah if I asked for love -Bruno K

<ul><li>Sheebah Karungi announced her concert for 2024 at Lugogo Cricket Oval in October</li><li>The concert is named 'Neyanziza' which translates to 'I am grateful</li><li>Sheebah is a prominent artist in the Ugandan music industry with successful albums like Nkwatako, Karma, and Samalie</li></ul>

Sharing the good news with her fan base known as the Sheebaholics, the Wakikuba stated that her concert will be held at the Lugogo Cricket Oval in October.

The announcement follows her recent cheeky post where she only published a date, leaving fans in suspense about what she had in store. Well, now the suspense is lifted. A concert, it is!

“SHEEBAHOLICS, This is SO SPECIAL❤️ Mark those calendars, FRI 4TH OCTOBER this year 🎇 We are live at LUGOGO CRICKET OVAL in “NEYANZIZA CONCERT”. More details to follow,” she posted.

Dubbed ‘Neyanziza’, which loosely translates to ‘I am grateful’, the upcoming concert maintains her stronghold of the local music industry as one of the biggest artists on the Ugandan market,, with several hits spanning over a decade to her name.

Last year, she held a joint concert with fellow artist,<a href="https://www.pulse.ug/search?q=cindy"> Cinderella Sanyu aka Cindy </a>in what was a ‘music battle’ between the two female big names.

<h3>Musical career and achievements</h3>

Sheebah Karungi's<a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/celebrities/sheebah-karungis-biography-age-family-education-discography-awards/v8zr9gx"> solo career took off after leaving Obsessions</a>. Her first breakthrough came with the release of her hit single Ice Cream in 2014, which was part of her debut EP of the same name. This project, alongside singles like Automatic and Twesana, solidified her position in the Ugandan music industry.

Sheebah has released several successful albums, including Nkwatako (2016), Karma (2017), and Samalie (2021), featuring hits like Nsekula, Tuvunya, and Sweet Sensation​​​​.

Over the years, Sheebah has received numerous awards and nominations, highlighting her impact and contribution to music. She has been recognised at the Uganda Music Awards, Zzina Awards, HiPipo Music Awards, and internationally at the Nigeria Entertainment Awards.

Her music and videos have also been celebrated for their style and fashion, earning her nominations in these categories as well​​.

The concert is named 'Neyanziza' which translates to 'I am grateful

Sheebah announces 2024 concert

The Mulamu singer shared sweet moments with his children and his American wife, Nicole Hayman on social media, announcing his perfect family reunion.

“This is the Type of Love that makes other things not matter. Park Day. What a Day,” he posted on X captioning photos taken at a children’s park and another, dining with Hayman at the kids.

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">This is the Type of Love that makes other things not matter. Park Day. What a Day ☀️😎☀️😎☀️😎☀️😎 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/vacation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#vacation</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/dontdisturb?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#dontdisturb</a> <a href="https://t.co/LY6nnMnOsw">pic.twitter.com/LY6nnMnOsw</a>&mdash; Pallaso (@pallasomusic) <a href="https://twitter.com/pallasomusic/status/1812722789339549730?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Last year, Hayman visited the Mayanja family in Kampala, together with their two children Dinari Mayanja and Maisha Mayanja. Prior to the Kampala visitation, Pallaso had reportedly last met with them when Maisha was just one-year-old and Dinari, a two-year-old, about nine years ago.

As they say, one good turn deserves another, and Pallaso has repaid the favour.

<a href="https://www.pulse.ug/search?q=pALLASO">Pallaso </a>started his singing career in the late 1990s, then with the stage name Pius Lizard, and was a protégé of his brother Joseph Mayanja, aka <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/search?q=JOSE+CHAMELEONE">Jose Chameleone</a>, under the Leone Island Music brand.

However, in 2004, Pallaso ditched his music career for greener pastures in the United States, where he started a family with Hayman and their relationship yielded two children.

In 2017, as the Goodlyfe Crew, also former Leone Island protégés consisting of his other brother D<a href="https://www.pulse.ug/search?q=MOWZEY+RADIO">ouglas Mayanja and Mowzey Radio, </a>were a big item in Uganda’s music space, Pallaso would revive his music career.

While in the USA, he collaborated with the group on the hit song, Amaaso. Following the massive success of the song, Pallaso launched his career on the Ugandan market.

He then left the USA to concentrate on building his building career after he got a perfect lifeline. The decision would pay off handsomely as he has proven to become one of the most-sought singers of late.

The Mulamu singer shared sweet moments with his children and his American wife, Nicole Hayman on social media, announcing his perfect family reunion

Pallaso returns to the US after 10 years

The gorgeous media personality and her female friends are unwinding in the relaxed atmosphere of a white coral beach resort in Zanzibar and it’s inevitable that Nabatanzi is oozing nothing but love and positivity.

As the tides that never leave the shore mellow her down, <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/celebrities/diana-nabatanzi-forces-apology-from-potty-mouth-tiktoker/cr4ccxz">Nabatanz</a>i is painting social media with stunning images of a perfect gateway from the hustles and bustles of Kampala city.

“I lost too much time on people’s opinions! Time flies and before you know... The ones that love you genuinely adjust! 2024, thank you,” she posted on her social media channels.

In the photos, the light-skinned beauty rocks a short African print dress with a belt that accentuates her curvaceous figure while in the company of four other women, enjoying the moments.

Diana Nabatanzi and her girls in Zanzibar

Talking about people’s opinions, in her duties at BBSTV, Nabatanzi has passionately been advising young people to embrace co-existence and positivity, especially in the digital space.

She recently warned social media users who use vile commentary on other people, especially celebrities. She said this might come back to bite them in the future.

“There are young people who misuse the internet and need to be corrected, and where we need to use force, we shall do that as well. You have to put your act together,” she said.

“I ask all of you parents with children, to teach them how to use the internet well. Train them and guide them on how to interact with people who are higher than them. Also, don't follow or watch artists you don't like.”

Actress Diana Nabatanzi is all about positive vibes as she basks in the glowing sunsets of Zanzibar.

Photos: Diana Nabatanzi spreads positive vibes in Zanzibar

<ul><li>The Karamojong people of North Eastern Uganda are known as warriors and pastoralists</li><li>Bride price in Karamoja is traditionally paid in livestock, especially cattle, and can vary depending on factors such as clan size and wealth</li><li>Other livestock like goats, sheep, and even beehives can be included in the bride price</li></ul>

Famed as the warriors in the savanna grasslands, the Karamojong are pastoralists in North Eastern Uganda, bordering northern Kenya and parts of southern Sudan.

&nbsp;Being traditionally pastoralists, the Karamojong treasure their livestock, especially cattle, which every man struggles to have in large numbers.

The bride price in Karamoja is traditionally paid in livestock, primarily cattle. The number of cattle varies depending on several factors. Larger clans often command a higher bride price and this is also the case for wealthier families who expect more cattle.

However, bride price can also be determined by the bride's family’s bargaining power. Bargaining is common, and the final amount can fluctuate.

Read: <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/lifestyle/i-paid-dowry-for-all-my-daughters-museveni/gy8b3lx">I paid dowry for all my daughters - Museveni</a>

While cattle are the primary form of payment, other livestock like goats and sheep might also be included. In some cases, beehives can be part of the bride price, particularly among the Ik people.

The bride price is not simply a purchase of the woman. It's seen as compensation for the loss of the woman's labour and a way to solidify the relationship between the two families.

The bride price is shared among the woman's relatives and clan members.

In a recent news story, an American businessman paid a substantial bride price of 210 million Ugandan shillings (equivalent to 200 bulls, 300 cows, and 100 goats) for his Karimojong wife. This highlights the potential range and value placed on bride price in certain circumstances.

Payment of the bride price elevates a man to the full acceptance by the clan. A man has no official claim over a woman or children unless he pays the bride price.

Bride price in Karamoja is traditionally paid in livestock, especially cattle, and can vary depending on factors such as clan size and wealth

Karamojong: Uganda’s warrior tribe where bride price is up to 200 cows

<ul><li>Inspired by overwhelming response to sharing his own struggles with depression</li><li>Started struggling with depression in 2013 after the tragic loss of his mother to cancer</li><li>To help others going through similar situations</li></ul>

The Prophecy singer says he is inspired by the overwhelming response he received after sharing his own struggles with depression recently.

In March this year, <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/pastor-bugembe-should-have-been-federation-head-exodus/bpk152k">Exodus</a> shocked fans when he revealed that he has been struggling with depression since 2013. He stated that the condition was triggered by the tragic loss of his mother to stage four cancer, something that shattered his world.

"My struggles began in 2013 when I lost my dear mom. At that time, we discovered she had stage four cancer. When she passed away, I lost my job, my house, and my cars,” he said.

As depression hit, Exodus took a break from music but found solace in alcohol and drugs that almost cost his life.

Exodus says he is now inspired to help other people who are going through situations that he is familiar with.

“I’m on a campaign to create awareness so the public can get to learn what mental health is or issues that deal and concern with thoughts,” he said before adding.

&nbsp;“When I went through this challenge about 7 years ago and narrated my story two months back, we got about 5000 comments from different individuals thanking us for opening up about the dangers of mental health.”

He noted that many people are going through the same challenge but fear to open up.

“That implied to me that so many people are going through the same challenge but fear opening up based on how the public will judge them, especially those in the creative arts. The mental health issue is a global pandemic that we have not embraced yet,” he added.

<h3>Mental health in Uganda</h3>

According to Makerere University School of Public Health and Butabika Mental Hospital 2023 survey, at least 30% of Ugandans have mental disorders, translating to 14 million people. Men are the most affected.

Gospel singer Exodus started a campaign to address mental health after a seven-year battle with depression

Exodus starts campaign to fight mental health stigma

<ul><li>Grenade Official, also known as Deus Ndugwa, has found salvation in God after a tumultuous period in the music industry</li><li>He expressed regret for his past life marked by violence and arrests, and is determined to be a better man after being born again</li><li>The singer has overhauled his lifestyle and wardrobe to reflect his desire for a fresh life direction</li></ul>

The Nkuloga singer expressed regret over his past life, characterised by episodes of violence, arrests, and other scandals, stating that he is not proud of that life anymore.

“This new version of Grenade is different. Time will speak for itself but this Grenade is different. I have been imprisoned several times, and such things will not happen again in my life. Being born again now, I am going to do my best to be a better man,” he said.

Grenade explained that though he has achieved fame and celebrity status, he was despised and never respected by several people, leaving him soul-searching.

The singer has since taken on his new direction in life seriously, starting with overhauling his choice of wardrobe. If his social media is anything to go by, the singer has been sharing photos in clean suits, looking like a humble youth pastor, as a testimony of his desire for a fresh life direction.

<h3>Who is Grenade Official?</h3>

Grenade Official, real name Deus Ndugwa, was born in Lyantode on July 14, 1997. His educational background details are scant.

<a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/celebrities/bobi-wine-and-barbie-adopted-grenade/tpescvk">One day, he walked from Lyantonde to attend a show in Kyazanga where Jose Chameleone was to perform. </a>

<a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/celebrities/bobi-wine-and-barbie-adopted-grenade/tpescvk">He had come to demand money from Chameleone money for the rabbits he had sold him. Unfortunately, Chameleone left before he could pay him.</a>

Luckily for Grenade, the truck that had ferried music equipment hadn't departed, so he came with it to Kampala. On arrival in Katwe, he was offered a job by the equipment owners until he got bored after two weeks and walked up to Chameleone's house in Seguku. However, they were not able to meet him.

He was now left with one choice: hustling; this included several menial jobs, including selling scrap.

In the process, he met a producer called Mavo in Kamwokya who helped him produce his first songs under his then-stage name Moz Dem.

One day, he went to 9 Degrees Bar and met Coco Finger who started moving around with him.

In the process, he met Big Eye who took him off the street and started staying with him. But he shortly left to return to the streets after he learned that Don Zella (who was then dating Eye) had registered him to return to school.

He then linked up with Hypeman who used to go with him to bars. He would later meet Pallaso and started staying with him and he met him through Kevin Killer with whom they sang Walayi. He had his breakthrough after releasing Nkuloga.

The singer has overhauled his lifestyle and wardrobe to reflect his desire for a fresh life direction

I am now a changed man; a born- again – Grenade

<h2>Here's a breakdown of what qualifies as distressed fashion:</h2>

Fading: Distressed clothes often have faded areas that mimic the natural lightening of fabric over time. This can be achieved through various techniques, like bleaching or stone washing.

Rips and Tears: Controlled rips, tears, and frays are hallmarks of distressed fashion. These are strategically placed to add a sense of rebellion or edginess. The severity of the rips and tears can vary depending on the desired look.

Fraying: Edges of hems, seams, and pockets might be frayed to create a worn-out effect. This adds a touch of texture and visual interest to the garment.

Holes: Distressed clothing can have small holes or patches for a more dramatic, grungy look.

Denim: Denim is the undisputed king of distressed fashion. Distressed jeans are a staple, featuring any combination of fading, rips, tears, and whiskering (faded lines that mimic natural wear patterns).

While denim reigns supreme, distressed techniques can be applied to other fabrics like leather, cotton, and even knitwear. Distressed leather jackets or sweaters add a touch of vintage charm.

Not Accidental Damage: Distressed fashion is a deliberate aesthetic choice, not a result of carelessness. The rips, tears, and fading are placed strategically for a specific look.

Balance is Key: While distressed elements add a unique touch, too much distressing can make the garment look sloppy or unkempt. It's about achieving a balanced look with the right amount of wear and tear.

Versatility: Distressed fashion can be incorporated into various styles, from edgy and grunge to vintage-inspired or even a touch of casual rebellion. For example; ripped jeans come in various styles, from subtle distressing to major tears.

Faded or ripped T-shirts with rolled-up sleeves are a casual staple, distressed denim jackets timeless pieces, distressed denim jackets add a cool and nonchalant vibe, and frayed hems on sweaters add a touch of vintage charm to a cosy knit.

Overall, distressed fashion is about embracing a sense of history, rebellion, or individuality through clothing that appears pre-worn and unique.

This article is written with the help of an AI model and verified by the writer

Distressed clothes often have faded areas that mimic the natural lightening of fabric over time

What qualifies as distressed fashion?

<ul><li>Gravity Omutujju believes that the music industry is the most profitable venture in Uganda</li><li>He emphasizes the importance of treating music as a business and investing in it</li><li>Gravity compares the music industry to the football club business, highlighting the value of persistence and consistency</li></ul>

While speaking on NTV After 5 Show, <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/search?q=gravity">Gravity </a>noted that musicians ought to treat the trade like any other business venture that suffers losses, low sales, and other misfortunes. The Doozi singer highlighted the value of persistence and consistency to achieve success.

He likened the music industry to the football club business, noting that a poor performance in one season only takes the club’s management back to the drawing board to identify areas for improvement and further investment.

“Music is the most profitable business in Uganda if God has had mercy on you,” he said before adding.

“Music is a business. You need to take it as any other business. You must invest in it. For example, in the football business, if a club like Manchester United doesn’t perform well in a league season, it does not stop them from buying players. They keep investing.”

The Doozi singer urged fellow artists not to give up when they’re struggling to produce hit songs.

“Even if you have no hit songs, keep on producing music. People pay attention. It may not be a big hit but there are some people who will love what you’re doing and pay you,” he added.

A scene from Gravity Omutujju's music video

He noted that he hopes his children will emulate him, stating that the music industry has great potential for development.

“I pray for my children to take the same path because we have started out at a difficult time but it has worked out for me. By the time they are done with their studies, the industry will have developed. Presently, the industry is still virgin,” he said.

Gravity is one of the most sought-after singers, with several hit songs in his catalogue. He has created a<a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/gravity-omutujjus-doozi-music-video-sparks-controversy/j8n1t3d"> niche of music that is laced with sexual innuendoes in recent times</a>.

His 2023 song,<a href="https://www.pulse.ug/entertainment/movies/gravitys-hit-song-okwepicha-used-as-soundtrack-in-queenie-tv-series/dp14z4n"> Okwepicha, is among the soundtracks for Queenie, </a>a 2024 British television series based on an award-winning novel of the same name.

He has held several successful concerts over the years. Gravity has also invested heavily in real estate.

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Music is the most profitable business anyone can venture in–Gravity Omutujju remarks. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NTVTheBeat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NTVTheBeat</a> <a href="https://t.co/OhV8hyHq1L">pic.twitter.com/OhV8hyHq1L</a>&mdash; NTV UGANDA (@ntvuganda) <a href="https://twitter.com/ntvuganda/status/1811687089638928814?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Gravity Omutujju believes that the music industry is the most profitable venture in Uganda

Music is the most profitable business – Gravity

For starters, in Uganda, rolex is not a luxury watch but a delicious and popular street food! It's a simple yet satisfying dish consisting of an omelette filled with vegetables and rolled up in a chapatti.

The name "rolex" is a playful abbreviation of "rolled eggs." It's a quick, affordable, and tasty meal enjoyed by people from all walks of life.

Somehow, the street food has been so well marketed that it features on the menus of top hotels and restaurants and has a dedicated annual festival in Kampala City. Also, tourists and prominent visitors like celebrities are usually urged to take a bite of the dish.

While this is appreciated, the success story of rolex has taken away attention from some of the historic Ugandan dishes that deserve even more celebration. Such a dish is the luwombo.

Check out: <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/lifestyle/uganda-celebrates-as-mama-d-sets-new-cooking-record/xr00xdq">Uganda celebrates as Mama D sets new cooking record</a>

<h3>Here is why luwombo deserves much more attention:</h3>

Unlike chappati, a flatbread of Indian origin, luwombo, a Ugandan dish steeped in tradition and bursting with flavour, is more than just a meal; it's a culinary experience.

Origins: The Baganda people, residing in south-central Uganda near Lake Victoria, are known for creating Luwombo. While its exact origins are debated, some accounts trace it back to the 1880s, possibly introduced by a chief cook to the king.

Significance: Traditionally, Luwombo held a special place in Baganda culture. It was considered a royal dish served to esteemed guests, including the king, chiefs, and honored visitors. It signified respect and marked special occasions like weddings.

The All-Important Banana Leaf: The heart and soul of Luwombo's presentation lies in the banana leaf. Ugandan green banana leaves, specifically from the banana cooking variety are preferred. These sturdy leaves are meticulously cleaned and softened over an open flame or in hot water. Some cooks even impart a smoky aroma by briefly smoking the leaves over burning wood chips. This not only adds a touch of smokiness but also makes the leaves more pliable for wrapping.

Vegetarian Twist: Luwombo doesn't have to be meat-centric. A vegetarian version often replaces the meat with mushrooms, offering a hearty and flavorful alternative.

Plantain Perfection: Plantains, a staple Ugandan starchy food, are frequently included in Luwombo. Green plantains, peeled and cut into chunks, are simmered in the stew until tender but retain a slight bite.

The Art of Wrapping: Once the stew is cooked, the artistry of assembling the Luwombo parcels begins. A banana leaf is spread open, and a generous portion of the flavorful stew with protein and plantains is placed in the centre. The banana leaf is then folded expertly, forming a neat packet. Techniques vary, but the aim is to create a secure seal that traps the steam and aromas within. Some cooks use banana leaf strips or twine to tie the packets closed for extra security.

A Steamy Revelation: The Luwombo parcels are then placed in a steamer basket stacked over simmering water. The gentle steam slowly cooks the dish, allowing the flavours to meld and the banana leaf to impart its subtle earthiness. The cooking time depends on the chosen protein, typically ranging from 30 minutes to an hour.

Unveiling the Treasure: When the Luwombo is cooked to perfection, the parcels are carefully unwrapped, releasing a burst of fragrant steam and enticing aromas. The vibrant stew with tender protein and plantains nestled within the banana leaf is a visual and olfactory treat. Traditionally, Luwombo was enjoyed directly from the banana leaf, adding a touch of rustic charm to the experience. Today, it's often served on a plate, but the banana leaf still plays a role in its presentation.

This article was partly written with an AI model and verified by the writer

Luwombo a Ugandan dish steeped in tradition deserves better marketing as rolex, a popular street food

Why luwombo deserves much more attention than rolex

<a href="https://www.pulse.ug/search?q=feffe+bussi">Feffe Bussi's</a> new album, ‘The Paragon’, consisting of a whopping 16 tracks, has elicited excitement among fans, who are wondering what package the album entails.

For starters, a paragon means someone who is a model of perfection in some quality or trait. Given the title, Bussi gives fans very high expectations of what to expect.

For an artist going by the moniker The Smallest Rapper, and also a multiple hip-hop award winner, one would perhaps expect The Paragon to be the perfection of his renowned rap skills.

The album opens with Feffe Bussi as a taxi tout/ conductor hailing: “Wandegeya, Kamwokya, Bukoto,” Bussi calls out, capturing Kampala’s public transportation hustle and bustle. He metaphorically invites listeners to his album before quoting Tupac Shakur and chest-thumping.

This intro serves its purpose, setting the mood like scented candles at a romantic dinner.

In the second track on the album, he features <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/search?q=lilian+mbabazi">Lillian Mbabazi</a> on a soothing love song titled, “Beautiful to Me.” Soft and laid back, the two combine perfectly in a love symphony. Mbabazi weaves in Ikinyarwanda in her lyrics here and there, giving the song that extra spice that could strike a chord with our Southern brothers and sisters. It’s a beautiful piece.

In Tell a Friend, loud drumbeats and fast-paced rhythms typical of Ugandan-ragga dancehall songs commonly known as Kidandali, take over. This is the high-energy sound that dominates the album for the better part of the remaining songs. With a huge hit song potential for the Ugandan charts, Tell a Friend is about celebrating success.

Feffe gives hip-hop fans a dose of his lyrical stamina in Most Wanted as he authoritatively takes on the mic, declaring himself the best in the game. As soon as he drops the mic, he takes listeners back to Raga, with Tayagalika renewing the debate about a poor man never getting love and appreciation.

He maintains the high tempo on Jigi jigi with <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/search?q=ykee+benda">Ykee Benda</a>, the first guest feature on the album and follows the same script on Nobody, Mama Naki, Skia Disco and then delivers a trap/ rap song in Rose.

Another guest feature is Party Culture with<a href="https://www.pulse.ug/search?q=nina+roz"> Nina Roz</a>, <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/search?q=john+blaq">John Blaq</a>, <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/search?q=coco+finger">Coco Finger</a> and <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/search?q=karole+kasita">Karole Kasita</a> maintaining the dominance of dancehall on the album. He features <a href="https://www.pulse.ug/search?q=nubian+li">Nubian Li</a> in Ghetto, a song about the motivation, hustle and struggle for a better life.

In Mbabalira, Bussi delivers perfection. One of the songs that could be a favourite on the album has a strong afrobeat influence. He closes the album with Bestie, featuring Karole Kasita, yet another soothing song that will definitely elicit excitement. Tell a friend is another to tell a friend about Paragon.

The Paragon is an album that highlights the sacrifices rappers have made for music business relevance and sustainability in respect to mass market demands.