Isaiah Katumwa Concert: A 30-Year Celebration Of The Jazz Genre.

As Uganda gears up for the forthcoming jazz concert by the legendary Isaiah Katumwa, the Saxophonist says that it's not only a musical show but a celebration of 30 years of a remarkable journey in the same genre, which is growing steadily in Uganda.

The special concert is scheduled to take place on 20^th July 2025, at Serena Hotel Kampala.

Various companies have joined hands to partner with the concert, including Tusker Malt, the premium beer brand from Uganda Breweries Limited (UBL), announced as the official sponsor of the event.

During a media launch of the jazz concert, Denise P. Nazzinda, Premium Beers Manager at UBL, described the collaboration as a tribute to Uganda’s thriving jazz movement and Katumwa’s enduring influence.

“Thirty years of jazz is not just about one man’s success—it reflects a deep, evolving story of passion and artistry in Uganda. Isaiah Katumwa’s dedication mirrors our brand values of consistency and craft. We are proud to support this celebration of Uganda’s jazz heritage and its bright future” she said

Tusker Malt, known for its long-running Tusker Malt Conversations series, which spotlights musical craftsmanship, has become a notable supporter of Uganda’s creative arts. Nazzinda hinted that Katumwa’s inspiring journey could soon feature on their platform.

“We would love to one day host Isaiah on Tusker Malt Conversations. His story embodies everything we celebrate—authenticity, resilience, and dedication to the craft,” she added.

Katumwa said that his concert represents far more than a personal achievement, opening up about the struggles and triumphs that shaped his career, from teaching himself to play a broken saxophone to sharing stages with global jazz greats such as Manu Dibango and Hugh Masakela.

“This celebration isn’t just about me,” Katumwa said. “It’s about every Ugandan musician who has dared to dream and about the young talents who now see jazz as a meaningful path. My journey is proof that jazz in Uganda can thrive.”

Katumwa at a press conference in Kampala

While expressing gratitude to the partners, Katumwa passionately said that he is committed to nurturing emerging artists and building platforms for Ugandan jazz.

On the same concert, other artists, including Michael Kitanda, Joseph Sax, Myko Ouma, and Shaka Mayanja, among others, will also present their pieces. 

With a blend of reflection and celebration, Isaiah Katumwa 30 Years of Jazz promises to be a night that not only honours a musical pioneer but also highlights the evolution of jazz as a growing force in Uganda’s music industry.