Chameleone mobbed by crowds during his performance. Below, some of the fireworks display at Sheraton Kampala Hotel. PHOTOS BY MICHAEL KAKUMIRIZI
For the past 14 years, Ugandans have thronged Sheraton Gardens to usher in the New Year. On New Year’s Eve, it was the 15 edition of the Uganda Waragi Mix Dance party and there was a bevy of artistes ready to entertain revellers. By 6:30pm, gates had already been opened and excited socialites were already strolling to the Sheraton Gardens for the event.
The party was kick-started by comedians MadRat and Chicco who put upa great show. The duo kept the crowds laughing their lungs out as they cracked some few jokes even when they were recycled, it did not stop the revellers from laughing hard.
Musical performances kicked off at around 9pm with little known artistes working up the crowd. With artistes having many places to perform on the same day, many were seen performing earlier than the time they usually get on stage. Among these was Sheeba Karungi who performed at around 10pm because she had to rush for another concert. Bebe Cool hit the stage with songs such as Taata, Ki Ekiganye and Kabulengane among others. His performance got the crowd on their feet as they danced and sang along.
Photo by Michael Kakumirizi
Shortly after Bebe Cool was Bobi Wine performing some of the crowd’s favourite songs. During his 10-minute performance, the ordinary section was packed to the brim but the VIP area had a handful of people with more empty seats.
A few minutes to midnight, with everyone waiting with bated breath for the New Year, Chameleone raided the stage.
The frenzy that came with his performance could be mistaken for the New Year ululations. When the midnight hour hit, Chameleone paused to let revelers experience the fireworks while others excitedly pulled out their smartphones to capture the moments.
This went on for about 10 minutes, then he resumed his performance and climaxed the show with wishing the crowd a Happy 2017.
logwal@ug.nationmedia.com