Jude Katende
13 October 2008
Kampala — Just like the Royal Ascot Goat Races, some of the co-sponsors of the first international jazz festival at Speke Resort Munyonyo had well decorated hospitality tents. Warid, the main sponsors were stationed where they were at the goats' races.
Although they were not as alluring as at the goat races, the tent was sufficient in traditional red and white and had good catering. The tent had MP Henry Banyenzaki and other guests.
Uganda Breweries promoted the Tusker Malt lager brand and the overly green décor splashed all over told it all. It attracted a mixed crowd from press to corporate clients.
British Airways in maroon and white décor had the biggest tent but it was not active as most of its corporate crowd was laid back. Uganda Wildlife Authority had yellow and green decor showing off nature's conservation. Kobil had the tiniest tent tucked in a corner they could easily go unnoticed.
The South African Airways tent had the likes of the Alikers, Moreen Wavamunno, and Henry Chiliza the South African High Commissioner.
It was understandable that guests were largely from the corporate world, considering that they are into jazz music and not the kind of music played at Nakivubo Stadium shows.
Day one saw 76-year-old Makeba defy age and dance while singing the crowds' favourites such as Pata pata and Malaika.
Makeba avoided her crutch and danced to her songs as the crowds danced along and cheered. Chiliza left his tent, joined other revellers and danced with his wife. ICT minister, Ham Mulira also joined Makeba on stage. During the band's introduction, Mandla the bass guitarist was a main attraction. His skills wowed many.
Isaiah Katumwa had earlier set the mood with a full band also comprising three back-up vocalists. Crowds welcomed his signature tunes such as My Joy.
Oliver Mtkuduzi had already electrified the atmosphere with Todi, Neria and other songs he did nonstop.
Tuku's dance strokes excited the crowd. The grass suffered most as everyone tried to outdo themselves.
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