Uganda’s business and leadership elite convened on Sunday afternoon for an intimate and highly curated Johnnie Walker Blue Club experience, hosted by renowned businessman and philanthropist Bob Kabonero at his private residence in Kololo.
Synonymous with prestige and refinement, the Johnnie Walker Blue Club is an invitation-only platform that brings together distinguished leaders to connect, converse, and celebrate excellence over the world’s most exceptional Scotch whisky. Sunday’s gathering marked the final Blue Club experience of the year, offering members a fitting close to 2025.
The guest list reflected the stature of the occasion. From leading business magnates and industry captains to diplomats and influential figures from Uganda and beyond, the afternoon brought together individuals who continue to shape the country’s economic and social landscape.
Designed as a year-end celebration of achievement and shared success, the experience commenced with a refined luncheon, accompanied by live performances from the Black Roots Band. Guests were treated to a meticulously curated dining experience in an elegant setting, with every table adorned with a starter bottle of Johnnie Walker Blue Label and a fully stocked bar serving bespoke cocktails throughout the afternoon.
Welcoming guests to his home, Kabonero expressed gratitude for their presence and reflected on his longstanding partnership with Uganda Breweries Limited (UBL).
“You are most welcome to my home. It is truly a pleasure to host such an exceptional group of leaders, visionaries, and friends,” Kabonero said.
“This evening is not just a social gathering; it is a celebration of relationships, shared journeys, and the spirit of progress that has defined Uganda’s business community for decades. I am especially grateful to UBL and the Johnnie Walker team for the partnership we have shared for over ten years, and for choosing my home to host the final Blue Club experience of the year.
The Blue Club stands for excellence, rare craftsmanship, and leadership with purpose, values I strongly identify with as a founding member. Tonight, I invite you to relax, enjoy the whisky, and most importantly, enjoy the company and conversations around you.”
Speaking at the event, UBL Managing Director, Félicité Nson, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the role of the Blue Club in celebrating leadership and progress.
“As UBL, evenings like this remind us why we do what we do, creating moments that bring people together, elevate conversation, and honour those driving progress in our community,” she said.
“On a personal note, this being my first Blue Club evening makes it even more special. Johnnie Walker Blue Label is not just a drink; it is a statement, one of rarity, mastery, and intention. Through the Blue Club, we are saying to our members: we see you, we celebrate you, and we honour the role you play in shaping Uganda’s economic and cultural landscape.”
The experience also featured an exclusive whisky mentorship masterclass, where guests were guided through the art of tasting, sipping, and appreciating Johnnie Walker Blue Label. Adding to the sense of privilege, members were among the first in the region to sample the 2025 Horizon Unbound Limited Edition Special Releases, including expressions from Talisker 14, Lagavulin 12, Oban 12, Clynelish 18, and The Singleton 17-Year-Old.
Speaking on the significance of the Blue Club and its exclusive offerings, Christine Kyokunda, Johnnie Walker Brand Manager, described the platform as more than a luxury gathering.
“The Blue Club is an exclusive circle for individuals who appreciate mastery, craft, and intention. It is built on shared values, ambition, achievement, refined taste, and the desire to keep elevating,” Kyokunda said.
“Johnnie Walker Blue Label represents rarity; only one in ten thousand casks is selected. It is crafted for those who understand that excellence is intentional and earned. Through the Blue Club, we honour people who embody the same rare character and distinction. Members enjoy curated experiences, private tastings, concierge services, and unforgettable journeys around the world.”
Reflecting on the purpose and values behind the exclusive platform, Jimmy D. Mugerwa, Board Chairman of Uganda Breweries Limited and Patron of the Blue Club, said the initiative was built around meaningful connection and shared progress.
“The Blue Club was created as a home for achievers, a space where leadership, intellect and refined taste meet,” Mugerwa said. “It is built on the belief that progress is deliberate, and that true success is not only about what we achieve individually, but the relationships, conversations and legacies we build together along the way. Evenings like this remind us that excellence is a habit, and that meaningful connections are at the heart of lasting impact.”
Rachel Dumba, Board Member at Uganda Breweries Limited, thanked members for the enduring relationships they continue to build with the Brewery.
“On behalf of the Board, I would like to sincerely thank our Blue Club members and guests for the relationships and partnerships you continue to build with Uganda Breweries Limited,” Dumba said. “Your trust, collaboration and shared commitment to excellence have been instrumental to our journey, and platforms like the Blue Club allow us to pause, acknowledge that partnership, and celebrate the connections that have grown over time.”
As the sun set, the atmosphere transitioned seamlessly into celebration, with a DJ set taking guests on a musical journey as the dance floor came alive with guests dancing and singing along to their favourite classics.
The final Blue Club experience of 2025, hosted by Chairman Kabonero, was a fitting close to a year that saw the exclusive platform refreshed to deliver even more meaningful and memorable experiences for its members.
