It is hard to note if the Pilsner One Nation event that took place at Zoe Grounds on Sunday was highly anticipated.
The event was in the pipeline for a longtime, yet, the explicit detail to it remained classified for a very long time. In fact, it is fair to say that news about Mafikizolo’s arrival took many Ugandans by surprise, many of them did not know why they were here.
But the show had to happen either way. Zoe Grounds or Lugogo Grounds has recently played host to a number of concerts but somehow remains exclusive, thus, at times when they have shows, revellers struggle to locate the place.
One Nation is a concept meant to celebrate different African art, music and all sorts of culture that make them unique. The grounds were decorated for the day, the little huts, local brew and dress up were all on point.
However, the grounds were tragically empty.
Earlier on in the day, it was almost hard bumping into a person that wasn’t a service provider but as time went on, revellers showed up, but not enough for a picture perfect concert.
However, the activity on stage was something to write home about thanks to the different troupes that brought out the best of the cultural dances they performed. From Kitagururo, Nankasa or the Kinyarwanda three heartbeat move, they did a good job.
These cultural dances always got the best out of the audience, keeping things together for the performers of the day, Allan Tonix, Kateleya and Kandle, Afrigo Band and Mafikizolo.
Afrigo Band as always has a way with Ugandans thanks to songs such as Oswadde Nyo, Teli Mubi and music.
It was Mafikizolo however that carried the day, well because foreign acts are always the headliners and most anticipated.
Mafikizolo have performed in Uganda various times, some of the shows have even been private. The duo showed up in high moods. To their advantage, a big part of their catalogue is a fusion of house music, which through the years has given birth to amapiano.
Thus it wasn’t surprising that their semi live set with a DJ easily hit a note. Songs like Khona, Ndihamba Nawe and Love Portion got people dancing and others singing to lyrics they barely understand.
Within a few minutes after midnight, the duo left the stage handing over to DJ Bankrobber, who had been holding the show for most of the time.
Overall, it was an amazing celebration of culture, even with the modest turn up.