Ntungamo-based 99.3 FM Radio Ankole has announced the second edition of its annual “Ekijumeero” (concert) celebration, promising a bigger entertainment experience, major prizes including a motorcycle unveiled during a press briefing, and a large community festival as the station prepares to mark 21 years of broadcasting in western Uganda.
The official preparations were launched during a press conference at Radio Ankole offices, attended by media representatives, bloggers and stakeholders from across western Uganda.
Management confirmed that this year’s celebration will be held on July 4, 2026, under the theme, “Rubarurantojo” or powerful.
Organisers said preparations are already in high gear, with expectations of attracting more than 100,000 revelers, building on last year’s turnout which reportedly exceeded 50,000 participants.
Speaking at the event, the station manager praised the founders of Radio Ankole for establishing a platform aimed at promoting unity, youth empowerment, information sharing and entertainment in the region.
“Radio Ankole was started by very strong persons for the unity of Ankole people. This was to unite the people of Ankole. We thank our founders for this initiative and supporting the youth with employment,” he said.
He added that the Ekijumeero initiative is part of the station’s annual community outreach efforts.
“This is one way to give back to the community. Radio Ankole does this every year,” he said, adding that preparations were complete for a major celebration marking 21 years on air.
“Radio Ankole is making 21 years. It is cooking and ready to serve on 4th July 2026 as we celebrate 21 years. We are ready to give entertainment, food and excitement,” he said.
The station’s founders, including Mwesigwa Rukutana and Bob Kabonero, were praised for establishing one of western Uganda’s influential media houses.
The event has attracted sponsorship from several organizations, including Nyakyera Farmers SACCO, Ntungamo Girls High School, SAP General Hardware, Ankole Resort and Spa, among others.
Immaculate Kyomukama, the station accountant popularly known as “Mama Kijumeero,” said preparations from the previous edition had set a strong foundation for this year’s celebrations.
“We are here to serve our people. We therefore ask all the people in Uganda to support us and come join our Ekijumeero on 4th July 2026. We have bigger artists and prizes including motorcycles, TVs and smart phones,” she said.
Perez Rumanzi, Chairperson of Ekijumeero, said the event is designed to strengthen community bonds through music, culture and entertainment.
“Celebrate with us. We have many artists, just come and celebrate. You need time off work to be happy,” he noted.
Sponsors also expressed support for the initiative. Perez Abanitwe from Nyakyera Farmers SACCO said the institution joined because of the event’s positive impact on communities, while EBO SACCO Branch Manager Rubasa Duncan commended Radio Ankole for amplifying local voices and businesses.
“You have enhanced our voices and we have seen it through our performance and coverage,” Duncan said.
The celebrations are expected to feature a star-studded lineup of musicians, including Alien Skin, Mesach Semakula, Fik Fameica and Karole Kasita, among others, a move organizers say will attract large crowds from across Uganda.