Renowned Ugandan saxophonist Isiah Katumwa is set to mark a major milestone in his career with a grand concert titled “30 Years of Ugandan Jazz”, scheduled for Sunday, July 20th, 2025, at the Serena Hotel Kampala.
Addressing the media at a press conference, Katumwa described the upcoming show as more than a personal celebration; it’s a national cultural moment.
This concert is bigger than my name, he said. “It’s about the past, the present, and the future of jazz in Uganda. It’s about lifting others as I rise.
Reflecting on his journey, Isiah Katumwa recalled humble beginnings in 1995 performing with the Waka Waka Band at Sheraton Kampala. As a self-taught musician, he credits his growth to hard work, faith, and encouragement from fans who believed in him before the music had even matured.
They called me Uganda’s sax wizard long before I had truly earned it. That faith from the public kept me going.
Katumwa has since become a leading figure in Uganda’s jazz scene, consistently championing the genre and mentoring upcoming talent through platforms like Jazz with Isaiah, Jazz FM, and Beyond Music.
“It’s not just about counting years,” he said, “it’s about what we contribute. And one of my proudest moments is standing alongside incredibly talented young people and sharing the spotlight. That, to me, is what true leadership looks like.”
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The concert will bring together some of Uganda’s finest performers, including Michael Kitanda, Joseph Sax, Naava Grey, Myco Ouma, Moses Matovu, and others, in a night celebrating music, mentorship, and legacy.
