Uganda appreciates Afrigo band and Bakayimbila dramactors because of the solid legacies they have built over the years.
Notable facts about these two talented groups’ show that they dug their foundations deep and strong enough to stand up present day.
First and foremost, the Afrigo band and Bakayimbila dramactors define the Old and Golden times of Ugandan’s Entertainment world.
More to that, their funs range from the youth to the elderly, Ugandan citizens to those in the different continents.
Not to forget that their productions portray fun and meaningful information always.
AFRIGO BAND
This is Uganda’s longest existing Musical band that was formed in 1975 by eight musicians.
These include; Moses Matovu (band leader), Charles Ssekyanzi, Jeff Sewava, Paddy Nsubuga, Paulo Serumagga, Fred Luyombya, Anthony Kyeyune and Geoffrey Kizito
The group only performanced for President Idi Amin back in the days under the management of the president’s office.
Afrigo band comprises of Saxophonists, Vocalists, Composers, dancers, guitarists, drummers, trumpet players and many other artists.
The band is proud of its classic African Rumba, Kidandali and Jazz records that hold meaning and value to Ugandans.
Their classic songs include;
- Afrigo Batusse (The Afrigos have arrived)
- Enneyisa (Behavior)
- Sipiidi Kendeeza (Reduce your driving speed)
- Jim (resolving marriage issues)
- Olumbe Lwo ‘bwaavu ( disease of poverty)
- Obangaina
- Nfunda Nomubbi ( better off with a an ugly one who is hard working and respectful)
- etc
Afrigo band frequently tours Europe and America with classic presentations of their Goldie’s to Ugandans in these locations.
The band also performs at club Obligato and Club Guvernor every last Friday of the month. This night attracts citizens in late 40s – 70s and youths that appreciate old classic music. For this reason , this night is famously known as “Kikadde” at club Guvernor. Ugandan fun lovers always look forward to this one night and hit the club in big numbers.
The band performs in other home clubs around Kampala and has its music frequently played on Radio One FM 90.
BAKANYIMBIRA DRAMACTORS
It is Uganda’s oldest Movies, drama and theatrical production group founded in 1982 by three high school talented boys. These gifted boys were; Andrew Benon Kibuuka, Aloysius Matovu Joy and Charles Ssenkubuge. The group has stood bad and good times with its other renowned artists like Leila kalanzi, Jean Nakachwa and many others.
Bakayimbira dramactors is an award winning drama group of all times. It is a trainning school for Music Dance and drama working with many notable organisations.
This drama company focuses on conservation of society and cultural values giving reason for non-government organizations and Government bodies to sponsor their series.
Bakanyimbira dramactors have various Drama series that include;
- Kigenya Agenya sponsored by The ford Foundation of America
- Bamulanzeeki sponsored by DENIVA
- Blind Doctor sponsored by Ministry of Health
- Ndiwulira (focusing on AIDS awareness. Sponsored by MIN of health and WHO).
- Ganyuguuma ( there new movie portraying circumstances leading most break ups of home lately and high death rates )
The dramactors usually showcase their productions at Bat valley theatre and the Uganda National theatre. Their educative movies contribute much to Uganda’s movie industry known as Ugawood.
Other cultural performing groups in Uganda include; Ndere troupe with their home in Ndere cultural Center (Ntinda), Ubuntu Cultural troupe and famous individual artists like Nandujja
Today conservation and restoration of cultural values is a challege because of the changes posed by new innovations and hard earned basic needs. These have led to fading away and changing of Cultural Values at a sky rocketing speed.
But our hopes are not in vain. If the young generation appreciates the expressive Productions by these group, cultural restoration will be a success with time.
Enjoy cultural nights in Uganda by visiting the above groups’ homes and the Uganda National Cultural center at the National Theater.