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Uganda Waragi (UW), the gin brand produced by Uganda Breweries Limited (UBL), has officially launched its 60th-anniversary celebrations.&nbsp;

The milestone, promoted under the theme 'The Spirit of Uganda,' was marked by a vibrant procession through Kampala, centred on a high-profile partnership with the city&rsquo;s boda boda community, executed in collaboration with SafeBoda.

SO UG SO 60 campaign 60 boda boda procession

The celebratory activities, running under the moniker 'So UG So 60,' which began with a fleet of motorcycles traversing the capital, aimed to honour the integral role of ordinary Ugandans and local entrepreneurs in the nation’s economy and culture.&nbsp;

According to Hilda Aguti, Marketing Manager for Mainstream Spirits at UBL, the choice of the motorcycle community was deeply symbolic. She noted that the riders represent the country's &quot;spirit of creativity and hustle,&quot; an ingenuity the brand has aimed to champion for six decades.

The main focus of the launch was a series of surprise engagements and gift distributions targeting essential community figures across Kampala's major hubs.&nbsp;

These activities specifically recognised individuals who embody the Ugandan work ethic.&nbsp;

Recipients included vendors and service providers in high-traffic areas such as Nakawa Market, where food vendors were recognised alongside figures like Nalongo Kinene.&nbsp;

Celebrating the taxi community in Nakawa market as part of the SO UG SO 60 campaign 60 boda boda procession with Uganda Waragi

Further engagement occurred in Wandegeya, where gifts were distributed to local salon owners, as well as renowned street food masters like Sula Birungo of Kikalaayi Chicken and Jib, a popular rolex vendor.&nbsp;

The brand also acknowledged contributions to the entertainment industry, with figures like VJ Jingo joining the celebration.

The anniversary is intended to reaffirm UW’s identity as 'The Spirit of Uganda'. Brand Manager Hillary Baguma described the anniversary as both a thank-you to the Ugandan consumer and a celebration of "resilience, reinvention, and innovation."&nbsp;

By partnering with the boda boda community, UBL sought to link the brand's enduring presence to a service that is essential to the city&rsquo;s daily rhythm, connecting people, livelihoods, and stories across the nation.

The day concluded in a classic Ugandan fashion, with a communal meal where tables were filled with traditional staples such as matooke, yams, and beef in groundnut paste, fostering shared connection among participants.

Uganda Waragi&rsquo;s history is rooted in local heritage, dating back to 1965 when 26 master blenders perfected a recipe based on generations of local gin-making traditions. The spirit, which uses pure water from Lake Victoria and a blend of unique botanicals, has since achieved considerable international acclaim.

UW has earned over 28 international gold awards, including the prestigious Grand Gold from Monde Selection in 2023, cementing its status as a world-class premium gin. While the classic Original remains a staple, the brand now offers a diverse portfolio, including flavoured variants such as Coconut, Pineapple, and Lemon &amp; Ginger, demonstrating continued efforts to blend tradition with market demand.

The milestone, promoted under the theme 'The Spirit of Uganda,' was marked by a vibrant procession through Kampala, centred on a high-profile partnership with the city’s boda boda community, executed in collaboration with SafeBoda.

Six Decades of heritage: Uganda Waragi celebrates anniversary with bodaboda riders

By Patrick Katende

Customer service has become one of the most defining measures of business success. We live in a time when the distance between a brand and its customer can determine its relevance, and where accessibility is no longer a convenience but an expectation.

Across industries—banking, telecom, healthcare, or manufacturing—the businesses that stand out today are those that have learned to serve from the edge, and not the center. They have discovered that growth happens when you move closer to the people you serve.

This shift is changing how we think about customer experience.

Twenty years ago, many companies believed that a single headquarters or central office could efficiently serve the entire country. But as Uganda’s towns have grown and communities become more dynamic, that model no longer works. People want immediate access to solutions.

They want to feel seen and supported. A farmer in Ibanda, a contractor in Lira, or a small hardware owner in Mityana should be able to access the same quality of service as someone in Kampala. And that’s where the idea of the last mile of excellence begins to matter.

The idea is about logistics and retail presence, but is also about proximity that builds trust.

In my years of working in customer-facing operations, I&rsquo;ve learned that nothing replaces human interaction. Technology may make transactions easier, but it is trained, empathetic, and accessible personnel who make service meaningful.

At Uganda Baati, we&rsquo;ve built our approach on this understanding. We have steadily expanded our network of service centers across the country, growing from a handful of outlets to now twenty three showrooms. Each new center is a bridge between our promise and our people.

When we started opening showrooms out of town, we saw what access means to a community. Customers who once had to travel long distances to Kampala could now walk in, get professional guidance, compare roofing solutions, and make informed decisions.

Contractors could receive technical support. Fundis could be trained on proper installation techniques. Suddenly, the brand was no longer distant; it was part of the community. Still is.

That, to me, is the essence of service leadership: to make a brand not just visible, but present. Every new service center is an act of listening. It&rsquo;s a recognition that customer experience is shaped where the customer lives, works, and builds. The more we&rsquo;ve expanded, the clearer it has become that accessibility deepens trust—and trust, in turn, drives loyalty.

When customers know they can walk into your space, see your face, and have their questions answered, you move from being just a supplier to becoming a partner in their growth. That relationship is what sustains a brand long after marketing campaigns fade.

Many organizations today are beginning to rediscover the value of proximity. We see banks opening agent points in villages, telecom companies establishing experience centers upcountry, and hospitals extending outreach clinics to rural areas. These expressions of empathy say to the customer: we see you, and we will meet you where you are.

The last mile is not the end of the customer journey, but rather, the most important part of it. It&rsquo;s where promises are tested, trust is built, and brands earn their place in people&rsquo;s lives. That&rsquo;s the future of customer experience. And it begins by walking the last mile, every single day.

&nbsp;Patrick Katende is the Head of Service Centers at Uganda Baati

Across industries—banking, telecom, healthcare, or manufacturing—the businesses that stand out today are those that have learned to serve from the edge, and not the center. They have discovered that growth happens when you move closer to the people you serve.

The Last Mile of Excellence: Why service centers are the future of customer experience

Latest Ugandan Lifestyle Events News & Trends | Pulse Uganda

Events

The Bell ObaFest Regional Tour's second stop landed with a bang in the vibrant town of Masaka, transforming the Chomaz Lounge into a pulsating hub of music and local flavour.&nbsp;

On Saturday, hundreds of enthusiastic revellers poured into the venue, eager to participate in Uganda&rsquo;s biggest beer festival pre-party.&nbsp;

The atmosphere was immersive: admittance to this flavour-led experience was granted via an exclusive offer on the newly launched Bell Citrus and Bell Honey brews, ensuring every partygoer was quickly sampling the latest tastes.&nbsp;

Adding to the sensory appeal, the air was rich with the irresistible aroma of roasting Nyama meat, perfectly setting a vibrant stage for a night dedicated to authentic Masaka celebration.&nbsp;

The evening&rsquo;s proceedings were expertly managed by MC Marvin Solo, who seamlessly warmed up the audience before handing over to the DJ duo, Mel Pro and Bratta, to set the initial rhythm for the eagerly anticipated musical acts.

The excitement truly peaked when the crowd prepared to welcome their own. Masaka&rsquo;s beloved mixing maestro, Suuna Ben, received the kind of hero&rsquo;s welcome only a hometown crowd can deliver.&nbsp;

A wave of fervent cheers met him as he took to the stage, and after expressing heartfelt appreciation to his loyal base, he launched straight into his signature &quot;kinyanya nyanya&quot; session.&nbsp;

The profound connection between the artist and his people was undeniable, demonstrated by fans showering him with tips and waving the symbolic tree branches—a clear and touching sign of affection and support for their local talent.&nbsp;

Following this display of community pride, the night transitioned to a powerhouse vocal performance. The opening notes of rising starlet Nandor Love&rsquo;s &ldquo;Kinawolovu&rdquo; instantly drew the entire lounge to the stage. Her commanding performance guided revellers through her growing discography, including fan favourites like &ldquo;Mpologoma&rdquo; and &ldquo;Gukuba,&rdquo; conclusively establishing the Masaka activation as a vibrant endorsement of Uganda's flourishing music scene.

The remarkable success of the Masaka leg delighted the organisers. Herbert Ndugga, Sales Manager for Bell, shared his enthusiasm, stating: &ldquo;The energy at Chomaz was simply phenomenal!&nbsp;

This year, we are focused on taking the party across Uganda to ensure everyone can find their flavour with ObaFest, and Masaka embraced it with an incredible passion. This electric atmosphere is what we mean when we say Bell is the official beer of enjoyments.&rdquo;&nbsp;

As the cool night air settled over Masaka town, the warmth and party spirit inside Chomaz Lounge remained undimmed, with DJ Woodgates keeping the ecstatic crowd dancing well into the wee hours of the morning. This energetic event was the culmination of a successful week of engaging spot activations that had effectively built anticipation.&nbsp;

The Bell ObaFest regional tour now looks ahead to the West Nile region, with the next major stop scheduled for Arua at Capital One Lounge on November 8th, before culminating in the grand finale at the Millennium Grounds, Lugogo in Kampala, on November 15th.

On Saturday, hundreds of enthusiastic revellers poured into the venue, eager to participate in Uganda’s biggest beer festival pre-party. 

Photos: Masaka talent shines in Bell ObaFest Stop at Chomaz

More and more on Uganda’s quickly-evolving creative scene, one name keeps resurfacing - sometimes in praise, sometimes in debate, but almost always in proximity to progress: Kin Kariisa, the Group CEO of Next Media.

Most people know him for NBS, the flagship of Uganda’s largest media group. But beyond the headlines and broadcasts lies a different story… that of a man who has methodically built the scaffolding that now supports the country’s creative economy.

<h2>A Spark from the Studio: How It Started</h2>

In a recent episode of Sabrina Agasha’s “It’s Never That Serious”, legendary rapper Navio recalled how what began as a modest idea - The Navio X Project - evolved into something much bigger after an unexpected encounter with Kin Kariisa.

“The original concept was simple,” Navio said. “Ten episodes, ten tribes, ten songs — then we’d put it out.”

But midway through filming, Navio bumped into Kariisa.

“He asked what I was up to,” Navio recounted. “I told him I was with the Karamojong warriors [experiencing their culture, making music, filming it all]. He just said, ‘Come to my office on Monday.’”

That Monday, Navio walked into the Next Media Park expecting a chat and found a full team waiting. He made a brief presentation, and barely four minutes into the video, Kariisa stopped him.

“You have a spot on TV if you want it,” Kin told him. “Thursdays, 8 PM… all yours.”

That spontaneous conversation turned a cultural experiment into a nationally televised project, a leap only possible because someone in media leadership saw the creative value and moved fast.

It’s a pattern many in Uganda’s creative circles quietly recognize. Whether through the e-Concerts that kept musicians performing during lockdown, or the UgaTunes collaboration now monetizing Ugandan music online, Kariisa’s impact has been consistent, taking passion projects and building them into platforms.

Under his leadership, Next Media has steadily evolved from a broadcaster into a creative-infrastructure developer, investing in systems over and above the stories.

The Content Creator Hub, for instance, is a professional environment for young creators to learn production, business, and digital monetization. This is under the recently launched Next Creata brand, which is pushing the case for creators even further, bringing to the same table entities such as Uganda Development Bank (UDB), Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), and Operation Wealth Creation (OWC) - just three of the institutional players that the entertainment space need consistently present for its development.

At the launch, which had the Deputy Speaker of Parliament as Guest of Honour, it became clear that Uganda’s creative sector was no longer being treated as fringe culture and more a legitimate component of national economic strategy by the powers that be.

<h2>The Trust Bridge: Giving Investors Confidence in Creativity</h2>

For decades, Uganda’s creative industry has struggled with credibility. Corporate boardrooms loved the energy of artistes but distrusted the chaos that came with working in the space. That’s the gap Kariisa and Next Media quietly fill with these initiatives.

Through transparent structures, compliance, and consistent delivery, Next Media has become the trust bridge, the reason large institutions and brands now feel comfortable placing their budgets in the creative economy.

“Over the last couple of years, it had become that much harder to convince a financial institution to fund a concert or a digital campaign – only a few have continued to take that gamble,” notes a senior marketing executive who has partnered with Next Media. “But with these efforts by Kin and his Next Media people, their professionalism and governance culture, everyone - from government to the private sector – is yet again starting to see that this industry can deliver value.”

Uganda’s media and entertainment industry has never lacked influential advocates, it is just that many of these have overtime operated through access, not ownership. Kin Kariisa represents a rare evolution: a media owner who champions creators, not just profiting from them.

“Having someone who both owns the platforms and believes in partnerships like these changes everything,” says a content creator producing within the Next Creata ecosystem. “He has opened new doors for us.”

It’s a leadership style that runs against the grain of traditional media ownership, which often revolves around control. In contrast, Kariisa’s approach; open, collaborative, and long-term, has helped unlock the next generation of creatives, influencers, and innovators who in turn envision Next Media as a launchpad.

<h2>Building Trust Where It’s Scarce</h2>

Earning that level of cross-sector trust has not been easy. Uganda’s creative ecosystem has long been haunted by unfulfilled promises and short-lived projects. Next Media’s discipline and reliability should be able to disrupt that pattern.

By treating the creative sector with the same rigor as banking or telecommunications, Kariisa has professionalized it in the eyes of serious players. And in doing so, he has allowed artistes to focus on what they do best - creating - while institutions can finally invest without fear of mismanagement.

But with scale comes scrutiny. As Next Media’s influence grows, so too does speculation - about partnerships, affiliations, and motives. Kariisa, however, seems to have made peace with that.

“He’s comfortable being misunderstood,” says one long-time colleague. “He knows that when you’re changing an entire sector’s reputation, people will question your methods.”

And perhaps that’s what makes his role so vital. In a climate where ambition is often politicized, he remains focused on creating systems that outlast perception.

Every thriving industry owes its progress to a handful of people who build foundations others can stand on. Uganda’s creative economy is no different.

If the country is to sustain its current momentum, stakeholders - from policymakers to artistes - must learn to protect the ecosystem builders, not tear them down.

Kin Kariisa’s work with Next Media has shown that transformation doesn’t only come from talent; it also comes from trust, systems, and the courage to think differently.

As Uganda’s creative sector grows into a credible contributor to the national economy, we must safeguard the architects of the stage.

Uganda’s creative economy is maturing one partnership, one platform, one belief system at a time. And at its centre stands a leader who refuses to let scepticism outpace possibility.

Kin Kariisa may be best known for his media empire, but his real legacy could well be something far less visible and far more valuable - a creative infrastructure built on trust.

Kin Kariisa, the Group CEO of Next Media.

More and more on Uganda’s quickly-evolving creative scene, one name keeps resurfacing - sometimes in praise, sometimes in debate, but almost always in proximity to progress: Kin Kariisa, the Group CEO of Next Media.

Kin Kariisa: The man building major blocks in Uganda’s creative infrastructure

Latest Local News Updates & Newspaper Headlines | Pulse Uganda

Local

The World Greatness Awards 2025 shifted the global conversation on human value, holding its ceremony on African soil for the first time at the spectacular Shukran Palace in Zanzibar.&nbsp;

The event was more than a gala; it marked a fundamental reordering, positioning Africa not just as a location for recognition, but as the origin point from which global honour is issued.

Leaders from over forty nations participated in what was called the making of a new human archive.

At the centre of this monumental shift was His Royal Greatness Duke Patrick Businge, the Founding Chancellor of Greatness University and originator of the Awards.&nbsp;

Duke Businge was officially crowned His Royal Greatness at the ceremony, a title signifying the highest honour within the movement.&nbsp;

One of the awards at the World Greatness Awards

His vision is defined by the belief that human purpose lies not in ego but in impact, moving beyond merely listing achievements to documenting and immortalising the human spirit of virtue and vision.

The Greatness movement is built on a two-pronged approach: honouring what we do (influence and service) and revealing who we are (essence and identity). These are recorded in the World Book of Greatness and the World Book of Eternal Greatness, forming a single continuum of human excellence. This framework invites the world into a new, deeper conversation about human worth, cementing the legacy flame of greatness burning from Africa to the world.

Leaders from over forty nations participated in what was called the making of a new human archive.

World Greatness Awards: Duke Patrick Businge crowned

Last weekend, the social heartbeat of Mbarara pulsed loudest at the Acacia Inn, which had been spectacularly transformed into a vibrant canvas of colour and light.&nbsp;

The occasion was the monthly Acacia Brunch, and this time, Gordon's Gin dialled the fun up to eleven, ensuring the celebration was less of a meal and more of a magnificent, all-afternoon party.

From the moment the beautifully dressed guests stepped onto the grounds, they were enveloped in an atmosphere of effortless glamour. The backdrops were nothing short of picturesque, offering perfect settings for bold memories.&nbsp;

A complimentary flow of expertly made, bottomless Gordon's cocktails—featuring the refreshing classics of London Dry and the ever-popular Pink variants—set a high standard for the afternoon's delights.

The energy levels were consistently high, thanks to a skilled DJ who kept the decks hot. However, the true fever pitch was reached when Elijah Kitaka, the star behind the &quot;Daily Bundle&quot; hit, took the stage. His live performance captivated the crowd, drawing scores of people to their feet in collective movement and cheers.

The unofficial hub of the entire celebration was the highly sought-after Gordon's &quot;Ginspiration Station&quot; photobooth. Friends and style mavens gathered continuously at this iconic spot, posing against the bespoke backdrops to capture the essence of the day—moments of laughter, fashion, and shared good times, all framed for social media immortality.

&ldquo;Gordon&rsquo;s is a classic gin with a versatile taste profile that rhymes with relaxed and exceptional experiences such as brunch,&rdquo; commented Nancy Nansikombi, Gordon's Brand Manager at Uganda Breweries.&nbsp;

“We are thrilled to bring this experience to Mbarara every month and look forward to the next, to create even better memories, with a gin in hand.”

Having recently commemorated its first anniversary, the Acacia Brunch is no longer just a trend; it has firmly cemented its place as the go-to Brunch party in Mbarara&rsquo;s thriving social scene.&nbsp;

The successful collaboration with Gordon's Gin confirmed that for the Western Uganda elite, the perfect weekend includes great music, stellar company, and a perpetually refilled glass of premium gin. The consensus was clear: the wait for next month&rsquo;s instalment has already begun.

The occasion was the monthly Acacia Brunch, and this time, Gordon's Gin dialled the fun up to eleven, ensuring the celebration was less of a meal and more of a magnificent, all-afternoon party.

Pictorial: Gordon's Gin, Elijah Kitaka ignite Mbarara’s Acacia Brunch

Beneath the starlit skies of Zanzibar, a transformative moment in global recognition unfolded as the World Greatness Awards officially launched the Eternal Greatness Designations.

Held at Shukran Palace, the ceremony united African royalty, including His Royal Majesty King Clyde Rivers and His Royal Greatness Duke Dr. Patrick Businge, the Founding Chancellor of Greatness University.&nbsp;

This new category moves beyond conventional accolades, honouring individuals not merely for their actions but for their "eternal" identity. In his keynote address, Duke Businge declared that greatness is no longer measured by "medals, or monuments—but by meaning, morality, and legacy."

The Designations honour seven sacred pillars: Moral, Intellectual, Creative, Spiritual, Compassionate, Legacy, and Royal Greatness.&nbsp;

Recipients are bestowed with timeless titles such as Temple of Compassionate Greatness or Legacy Flame of Greatness. This allows honourees the privilege of using titles like 'His Greatness' or 'Your Royal Greatness'. HRM King Clyde Rivers described the designations as "the most powerful recognition the world has ever seen," crowning humanity with purpose and perpetual influence.&nbsp;

The Duchess Julian Businge added that true greatness is &quot;born of divine essence&quot; and &quot;sealed in eternity,&quot; asserting that every person&rsquo;s worth is not seasonal.

In a deeply moving and symbolic highlight of the night, the designation was bestowed posthumously upon His Excellency Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere, the revered Founding Father of Tanzania. He was recognised as the Sage of Moral and Intellectual Greatness for his enduring legacy of peace and servant leadership.&nbsp;

Duke Businge emphasised that Mwalimu Nyerere's influence has transcended time, teaching the world that greatness lies in service. Following this historic African launch, ceremonies are planned for London, New York, and Johannesburg, chronicling these exemplary lives in The World Book of Eternal Greatness Designations.

Held at Shukran Palace, the ceremony united African royalty, including His Royal Majesty King Clyde Rivers and His Royal Greatness Duke Dr. Patrick Businge, the Founding Chancellor of Greatness University. 

Eternal Greatness Designations launched in Zanzibar

Athletics

The Gulu City Marathon 2025, set to take place on 28 December 2025 under the inspiring theme, “Running for Health and Heritage,” has secured a major corporate backer: Uganda Baati Limited (UBL).&nbsp;

The partnership was officially unveiled at UBL’s Head Office, confirming the steel building solutions provider’s commitment to the Northern Ugandan community.

Uganda Baati, a member of the Safal Group, is taking on exclusive sponsorship rights within the steel category for the event, which is expected to attract hundreds of participants from across the country and beyond.

George Arodi, CEO of Uganda Baati, highlighted the deep connection between the company and the region.&nbsp;

“Gulu is home to one of our showrooms and a community we’ve walked with for years. Partnering with the Gulu City Marathon is therefore a natural extension of our ongoing commitment to this region to build stronger, healthier communities,” he stated.&nbsp;

He added that the sponsorship aligns perfectly with the investments made through the Safal Uganda Baati Foundation to champion health and well-being.

The partnership involves significant practical support. The UBL Clinic will operate as the official first aid station, offering on-ground medical assistance throughout the race. Furthermore, the company&rsquo;s Gulu Showroom will serve as both a kit pick-up centre and a hydration point for runners on race day.

Jackie Tahakanizibwa, Head of External and Corporate Affairs, remarked that these initiatives bring to life the company&rsquo;s purpose of building a future that values health, heritage, and shared progress.

Francis Gimara, leading the marathon organisers, welcomed the development, noting that UBL's involvement "strengthens our mission," especially as the run aims to honour Gulu’s story of resilience.

Tourism promoter Amos Wekesa concluded that with UBL’s support, the marathon will enhance sports tourism, shine a light on Northern Uganda, and promote fitness and unity across the region. Proceeds from the various race categories will support local community initiatives.

The partnership was officially unveiled at UBL’s Head Office

The partnership was officially unveiled today at UBL’s Head Office, confirming the steel building solutions provider’s commitment to the Northern Ugandan community.

Gulu City Marathon secures Uganda Baati sponsorship

Uganda’s PR and marketing communications industry has grown into a vibrant, opportunity-rich sector, attracting creative thinkers, digital natives, and ambitious entrepreneurs alike. From public relations consultancies and media agencies to content creators and experiential marketing firms, this industry has become a fertile ground for modern entrepreneurship.

But behind the polished campaigns and trendy social media posts lies a reality that many agency owners and freelancers quietly navigate—challenges around financing, client behavior, and business sustainability.

The industry operates within a mixed media landscape. Traditional platforms like radio and television remain influential, especially outside Kampala, where radio continues to be the most trusted source of information. With over 300 radio stations nationwide, small businesses and NGOs can reach rural audiences effectively.

At the same time, digital platforms are reshaping the way PR and marketing services are delivered. As of early 2024, Uganda had over 13.3 million internet users and 33.3 million mobile connections. WhatsApp leads with 7.4 million users, followed by TikTok (5.5M) and YouTube (4.7M).

This shift has created a new wave of communications entrepreneurs, Instagram-based boutiques, TikTok influencers, freelance brand strategists, and agencies helping SMEs scale visibility online.

Having run 80/ 20Marketing for seven years, I have witnessed firsthand the thrills and trials of entrepreneurship in this sector. The work is exciting, you get to shape narratives, craft stories, and elevate brands.

When managed well, the industry offers a chance to break even quickly and even earn good profits. But it also demands constant attention, strategic foresight, and resilience. Unlike product-based businesses, PR and marketing services are deeply personal.

Clients don’t just deal with a company; they engage with the faces behind it. Your presence matters. When you get pulled into unrelated ventures or overextend yourself, the business can suffer because your clients rely on you. Meanwhile, competitors are always ready to fill any gaps left by your absence.

One of the most persistent challenges is human capital. Finding reliable talent is a struggle; co-creatives often move from one company to another, chasing better opportunities or working simultaneously with competitors.

High staff turnover, combined with a lack of formal training in the industry, means agency owners must constantly rebuild their teams while ensuring quality delivery. Coupled with client indecision and delayed approvals, this creates pressure that can stall even the best-planned campaigns.

Financing is another critical challenge. Many agencies start without significant capital, relying on short-term loans to execute projects. In a field where clients can take months to pay, debt can quickly become a trap. You might win a project worth millions, take a loan to deliver it, and then wait three to six months, or longer for payment. During that time, interest accrues, staff salaries must be met, rent is due, and taxes mount. It is a cycle that tests even the most passionate founders.

Yet, for those who persist, the industry is full of opportunity. There is enough work to sustain every competent agency. Businesses that once believed they didn’t need PR or marketing communications will eventually realize the value of professional storytelling, it is only a matter of time. Agencies that can sell their craft, maintain client relationships, and deliver consistent results will thrive.

To support entrepreneurship in PR and marketing, structural changes are needed. Financial products tailored for service-based industries, faster payment commitments from corporates and government agencies, and recognition of PR and marketing as a profession, not just a gig, are essential. At the same time, agency owners must focus on what they do best, resist the temptation to over-diversify, and continuously invest in talent and skills development.

As a long-standing player in this industry, I have learned that mistakes are inevitable, but they are also opportunities to grow. With passion, persistence, and a keen understanding of both the business and human sides of communications, PR and marketing entrepreneurship in Uganda can be both profitable and impactful, telling the stories that shape our brands and nation while building sustainable enterprises.

Anthea Turwomwe Mascot is the Treasurer, Public Relations Association of Uganda.

Anthea Turwomwe,  Treasurer, Public Relations Association of Uganda.

The industry operates within a mixed media landscape. Traditional platforms like radio and television remain influential, especially outside Kampala, where radio continues to be the most trusted source of information.

Profit, passion, and promise in Uganda’s PR, marketing communications industry

Latest Ugandan Food and Travel News & Trends | Pulse Uganda

Food & Travel

Tanqueray elevated Kampala’s social calendar over the weekend with the inaugural ShowTime culinary and lifestyle experience, held at the exclusive Zara Gardens Hotel in Muyenga.&nbsp;

The event, on Saturday, October 25, 2025, offered guests an immersive journey through taste, sound, and bespoke design, setting a fresh standard for premium urban events.

Tanqueray's inaugural ShowTime culinary and lifestyle experience

The indulgence began immediately with a special Tanqueray welcome cocktail and a glamorous red-carpet entry leading to the 360-degree Zara rooftop oasis.&nbsp;

Against the panoramic backdrop of the Kampala Hills, guests enjoyed an all-you-can-eat culinary spread celebrating Uganda&rsquo;s rich, diverse flavours.

A key highlight was the hands-on DIY mixology station, where guests learned to craft their own cocktails under expert guidance, demonstrating the versatility of the premium gin.&nbsp;

Nancy Nansikombi, Tanqueray East Africa’s Brand Manager, emphasised the platform’s vision: “We are glad to offer this as an environment where guests can taste, create and appreciate the finer things as we celebrate the elevated Ugandan lifestyle.”

Beyond the gastronomic delights, the event championed sustainability and local talent. An eye-catching display featured sustainable décor from local partner Good Glass, showcasing beautiful recycled glass ornaments and blown-glass souvenirs under the theme of 'Made in Uganda.'&nbsp;

The sensory experience was completed by the rhythmic transition of the Ssese Nation DJs and an intimate fashion show by Bold in Africa, whose models utilised the tables&rsquo; walkways as their runway.

The inaugural ShowTime experience cemented Tanqueray&rsquo;s role as a cultural curator, successfully blending fine dining, artisanal craft, and contemporary style, promising more sensational moments to come.

The event, on Saturday, October 25, 2025, offered guests an immersive journey through taste, sound, and bespoke design, setting a fresh standard for premium urban events.

Tanqueray launches ShowTime: A new benchmark for Kampala’s premium lifestyle

Last week, Uganda Breweries Limited (UBL) hosted an exclusive Tanqueray Gin Masterclass, gathering 40 of Kampala’s most promising bartenders from the city’s leading establishments. The mission was clear: to elevate the local cocktail scene by mastering the subtle art and science of infusion mixology.

This was no ordinary class; it was an intensive journey into flavour, led by two titans of the industry: the internationally acclaimed mixologist Kingkline Ojal from Nairobi, and UBL’s own Reserve Brand Ambassador, Steven Baguma.

The mentors guided participants through a deep dive into the distinct botanical signature of Tanqueray, demonstrating how elements—from local herbs and spices to unexpected fruits and controlled temperature—could transform a simple highball into an extraordinary drinking experience.

Kingkline Ojal stressed the importance of starting with the guest. “The best cocktails start with understanding the needs of the client,” he told the focused group, adding a powerful call to action: “Uganda has so many rich, local flavors—we have every reason to explore them and craft something truly our own.”

Bartenders embraced a spirit of discovery, playing with pairings that pushed conventional boundaries: the surprising dash of heat paired with pineapple, the velvety smoothness of passion fruit balanced with sugar, and salted infusions that introduced unexpected grace to acidity.

Mentors moved between the stations, offering bespoke tips, critical feedback, and encouraging participants to ditch the scripts and embrace curiosity. Every precise garnish and careful infusion was a lesson in elevated craft.

For Nancy Nansikombi, Tanqueray’s East Africa Brand Manager, the event represents a significant strategic investment that goes far beyond the bottle.

“Our commitment goes beyond serving a premium gin,” she shared. “We’re investing in the people who craft the moments. This masterclass gives our bartenders the confidence and skills to compete globally and redefine cocktail culture right here in Kampala.”

As the evening drew to a close, the training hall transitioned into a vibrant showcase. Newly certified mixologists stepped forward, presenting their creations to well-deserved applause. The clink of glasses and the dancing flavours in the air marked not an end, but a beginning.

Certificates were awarded, but the true prize was the intangible shared conviction that Uganda's next wave of world-class bartenders had just begun to rise. Tanqueray didn’t just host a training; it lit a transformative spark. And in the glow of that moment, one thing became clear: Kampala’s cocktail scene will never taste the same again.

Are you interested in seeing some examples of the innovative cocktail ideas that might have come from this workshop, perhaps using local Ugandan ingredients?

Last week, Uganda Breweries Limited (UBL) hosted an exclusive Tanqueray Gin Masterclass, gathering 40 of Kampala’s most promising bartenders from the city’s leading establishments

The Gin Masterclass: Igniting Kampala's Cocktail Revolution

The State Minister for Luwero-Rwenzori Affairs, Hon. Alice Kaboyo has expressed dismay at reports that many parents in the Luwero district and the Greater Luwero were failing to send their children to school, undermining the Government&rsquo;s post-war recovery efforts.

The minister commented with concern about reports that despite different interventions from her ministry to bolster education in the area, many children and youth remain out of school.

Kaboyo made it clear that the Government expects local communities to match its investment with commitment.&nbsp;

She noted the historical importance of the Luwero Triangle, which encompasses 48 districts and served as the base from which the NRM came to power, stating that continuous development has been delivered, but it must be utilised.

Minister Alice Kaboyo commissioned a modern three-classroom block at Kikuube Church of Uganda Primary School in Luwero District. 

“As you requested, my ministry has delivered this 3-classroom block. The ball is now in your court because we have been getting reports that many children are at home and not going to school.&nbsp;

“In the future, we might resort to arresting parents who do not take their children to school.

“In the election term when you vote NRM, all the fees in government schools will be paid by the government. If we find a child at home, or coming to school with no food. We are going to arrest you.”

To illustrate the tragic consequences of parental neglect, the Minister recounted a &quot;very saddening report&quot; where a parent sent his two children fishing for catfish during school hours, only for them to be killed by a snake.

The Minister also cited the example of a new technical institute in Nakaseke, noting, "The government has gone as far as building technical institutes like the one in Nakaseke, but these are being attended by children from other parts of the country, not your children."&nbsp;

The Minister made the remarks while commissioning a modern three-classroom block at Kikuube Church of Uganda Primary School in Luwero District.&nbsp;

The project was fully financed by the Ministry of Luwero-Rwenzori Affairs under the Office of the Prime Minister and executed by NEC Construction Works and Engineering Ltd

The minister commented with concern about reports that despite different interventions from her ministry to bolster education in the area, many children and youth remain out of school.

Pulse Uganda

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