✓ This week, we remember some of South Africa’s jazz legends. January
may be a month of fresh starts, but it’s also a time we lost some of our
greatest musicians—artists who shaped the sound of African music and
gave voice to our struggles. We honor Bra Hugh Masekela (1939–2018),
Oliver Mtukudzi (1952–2019), Jonas Gwangwa (1937–2021), and
Sibongile Khumalo (1957–2021). Their music lives on, reminding us of
their talent, their passion, and the legacy they left behind.
✓ Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni has been re-elected for a seventh
term, winning more than 71 percent of the vote. Observers, however,
have raised serious concerns, citing reports of intimidation, arrests, and
abductions targeting the opposition—casting doubt on the credibility of
the election. His closest challenger, former entertainer Bobi Wine,
received just under 25 percent of the vote.

✓ South African actor star Thapelo Mokoena is set to visit Uganda next
month. From 12th to 16th February, Mokoena will take part in media
engagements, masterclasses on film and creative entrepreneurship, and
exclusive fan meet-and-greets. The visit, organised by Reach A Hand
Uganda and the Ikon Film and Television Awards, aims to strengthen
ties between the Southern and East African creative industries.
✓ Did you know, Ma Afrika, that Uganda is often called ‘The Pearl of
Africa’? The term was coined by Winston Churchill in his 1908 book My
African Journey, inspired by the country’s stunning biodiversity—from
countless bird and mammal species to landscapes that stretch from lush
forests to arid savannas.