Kampala’s entertainment calendar will take a distinctly South African turn this Saturday, November 7, as Grammy Award-winning musician and producer Zakes Bantwini headlines the return of Vuma Piano, bringing together lovers of Amapiano, Afro House and Afro Jazz for an afternoon of music and dance.
Set against the gardens at Méstil Hotel & Residences, the festival is expected to draw music enthusiasts for an experience that celebrates the sounds and cultural influence of contemporary African music.
Bantwini, one of South Africa’s most recognised musical exports, will lead the performances, bringing to Kampala a sound that has helped shape the global appreciation of South African dance music. Known for his ability to blend house music with African rhythms, the singer and producer has played a significant role in taking the country’s electronic music scene to international audiences.
His appearance is among the major attractions of this year’s edition, particularly for Kampala’s growing Amapiano audience, which has embraced the genre in bars, festivals and DJ-led experiences. DJ FKR is also lined up to perform, adding to the day’s musical offering.
Beyond the performances, this year’s Vuma Piano will have Johnnie Walker joining the experience as the beverage partner, bringing its Keep Walking spirit into a celebration of music, ambition and creative expression.
The collaboration reflects the growing relationship between premium lifestyle brands and African music experiences, where audiences are increasingly looking for more than just performances. They want spaces that bring together sound, culture, social connection and memorable experiences.
For Johnnie Walker, the partnership offers an opportunity to connect with an audience that is shaping Kampala’s contemporary entertainment culture, as well as a creative cultural exchange between Uganda and South Africa.
Vuma Piano’s return also comes at a time when Amapiano has moved beyond its South African origins to become a defining sound across the continent. Its infectious log drums, melodic arrangements and dance culture have found a particularly enthusiastic following in Uganda, where the genre has become a regular feature of nightlife and live entertainment.
With Bantwini leading the line-up, DJ FKR bringing the mixes and Johnnie Walker adding to the experience, Saturday’s gathering promises an afternoon that brings together music, movement and the social culture surrounding it.
The event begins at 2pm at Méstil Gardens, this Saturday, with Kampala’s music community set to converge for another celebration of the sounds moving Africa.
Tickets to event are going for Shs 70,000, early bird and Shs100,000 on the gate, and can be accessed via, www.quicket.co.ug.
