According to Abitex, Sheebah Karungi holds the top spot for pulling the biggest numbers, followed by Ray G, with Acidic Vokoz coming in third.
When it comes to staging, Abitex praised Acidic Vokoz and Spice Diana for their impressive setups. On Monday, October 7, this reporter covered Abitex’s insights on which artistes manage to attract the biggest crowds.
Who is Abitex?
Abel Musinguzi, widely known as Abitex, was born in Kashensero, Kabwohe, and raised in Kirumba, Nyendo, Masaka. He left school at Primary Seven and immersed himself in the world of music, starting his career working with disco players before eventually becoming a deejay.
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Abitex was inspired to enter the events promotion industry after witnessing a spectacular event organised by Pride Productions, a well-known company associated with Bakiyimbira Dramactors and Siyasa Senkubuge. Captivated by their grand event in Masaka, which included the dramatic use of a plane to distribute flyers, Abitex decided to venture into event promotion himself.
His first major event took place on June 21, 1998 in Masaka. It featured popular performers such as Paul Kafeero, Geoffrey Lutaaya, Mwamuli Katumba, Mathias Walukagga, Mulindwa Muwonge, Willy Mukabya, and Sarah Birungi. Echoing the grandeur he admired, Abitex used a plane to promote his event, setting a trend in his promotional style.
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One of Abitex's most notable events was a football match hosted in 2001, during Uganda’s campaign season. He conceptualised an idea to have President Yoweri Museveni play in a match, and with the help of radio host Mbiro Mugenyi from Radio Star, he successfully pitched the idea to the president’s aide. President Museveni agreed, and the match was heavily promoted as "Museveni Agabudde."
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The event was a massive success, drawing large crowds and offering roasted beef skewers to attendees. The match, held at Nakivubo Stadium, featured the president alongside radio hosts against a team of popular singers and actors, with Museveni scoring a penalty to secure a 1-0 victory. The event was not only a crowd-puller but also profitable for Abitex, cementing his status as a prominent events promoter.