As Uganda geared up for Independence Day celebrations, Smirnoff Fiestas delivered a double-header of music, flavour and high-energy entertainment in Mukono and Mbarara, proving that the spirit of celebration transcends geographical boundaries.
“The Smirnoff Fiestas are truly the ultimate party starter for campus freshers,” said Smirnoff Brand Manager Raymond Karama. “It is always a blast as we unite people through shared joy, dynamic flavour, and incredible talent.”
The festivities kicked off on Thursday at The John’s Hostel in Mukono, where local DJs Zai Si and Kunta Kinte teamed up with MC Mark for a back-to-back (B2B) opening set. Bonqie DJ followed, keeping the momentum going as the crowd settled into the night.
Trellyonset and Benjhi MC then got revellers moving with energetic performances and dance formations. However, one of the night's biggest highlights came when Etania took to the decks, with Pest MC providing the hype. Her piano-driven anthems sent the crowd into a frenzy, leaving revellers eager for more.
The party continued with Wiz J taking revellers on a musical journey through different eras, while St Trevor kept the energy high. DJ Dranix brought the Mukono edition to a close with creative remixes of local songs, classic Afrobeat tracks and international hits, keeping the party alive into the early morning hours.
By Saturday, the Fiesta had moved west to the University Inn at Mbarara University of Science and Technology, bringing the party to students and music lovers in the region.
Despite the early rain, revellers turned up in large numbers, enjoying the music, capturing memorable moments and sampling the event's offerings.
Student performers and DJ SlideThru opened the show before Mbarara's own Riddim Ursh Trey and Truth256 took over. Pallaso delivered an energetic performance, followed by Deadlazer DJ, who teamed up with local hype personality Lithan MC. Rappers Truth256 and Fefe Busi also delivered standout sets.
The excitement reached its peak when Azawi took to the stage for a headline performance featuring songs from her extensive catalogue. The singer kept the audience engaged as revellers sang along to her popular hits.
Wiz J and Ursh Trey maintained the back-to-back energy before DJ Bugy and Josh MC closed the Mbarara edition, bringing the two-city Fiesta experience to a memorable conclusion.
Through its stops in Mukono and Mbarara, the Smirnoff Fiestas brought together students, music lovers and local talent for a celebration of Ugandan music, emerging performers and the country's vibrant campus entertainment culture.