As an artiste, proprietor, promoter and parent, Halima Namakula seems to have the nine lives of a cat.CAROLINE MBABAZI talked to her about her latest venture into the world of charity.

Who is the real Halima

Halima is a people loving person. One who can be anything others require of her.

Rumour has it that lately you have given up music for charity. is this true

yes it is true. i have started an NGO called Women At Work with other female artistes like Sophie Gombya, Rachel Senkebejje, annette Nandugya and angela Kalule. it's an organi­sation formed to care for the vulnerable in society, currently we have been working with prostitutes and have changed a number of lives.

Is this your stunt for retirement from Uganda's music scene

No, i have not retired infact, i am releasing a new album titled Kibadugudde this October which i dedicated to a young Mutooro boy lazaro suffering from Hydrocephalus who was rejected and mistreated. all the proceedings from this album will go to looking after children in his condition.

Charity is said to be a publicity feat, is your cause any different

i started charity work before i made it big on the music scene; i used to send money to UWESO, even before my hus­band passed away. Whenever he asked me what he would do for me, i always told him i wanted to own an orphanage.

Parenting, music and social work, how do you juggle the three

With high blood pressure (laughing). it's true i have high blood pressure. My children say that my middle name is worry; i think i worry too much.

What is your secret to aging well

i work out, eat right, i also use vegeta­ble oil in everything i eat.

Has a man hit on you lately

i think i have all Ugandan men hitting on me (laughing). Yes, especially young men. i always tell them that i am old enough to be their mother.

Any wardrobe tips

i don't choose designers, i don't let trends control me, and i use what looks good on me. i don't go for the highest price;but what looks great on my body.