A quiet tribute to the artists who’ve walked with us on this journey.
Alphonse Obalim
Comedian
Alphonse Obalim is a Ugandan comedian from Atiak, celebrated for his relaxed storytelling and witty jokes about his hometown. He began his comedy journey in 2022, honing his craft under Timothy J. Nyanzi and through open mics and rehearsals. He shone as an opening act at the Son of Opio show in 2024. He has also performed on stages including Comedy Black Friday, Fun Factory, Laugh with Owakabi Gulu, West Nile Comedy in Arua, and the Mayor of Kirabo show. He also co-starred in the two-man show Two Broke, Too Funny with Jude Ssebale in October 2025. His first “Spaghetti” joke became an instant hit, cementing his place among Uganda’s most promising new comedians.
Brandy Arinitwe
Poet
Brandy dazzled the audience with her performance at the 2024 Son Of Opio show. A rising star in Uganda’s spoken-word scene, her journey began by performances at Rock Bar. With a knack for playful theatrics and a layered personality, she quickly made waves by staging her own solo show—Brandy’s Poetic Sense of Humour—a bold move even seasoned poets rarely attempt.
Her performances are deceptively light and effortlessly engaging, drawing in audiences with lyrical ease. While her youth may suggest simplicity, her verse reveals emotional depth and poetic maturity. Through her work, she is helping elevate performance poetry to a new level in Kampala.
Cassie Raine
Musician
Cassie Raine perfomed at the Arise Woman! Comedy Jam of 2022.
She is an urban dancehall and hip hop artist known for her energetic style and vibrant tracks like “Kola Bino,” “Bad Mind,” “Sugar Dance” and "Cellular."
She’s affiliated with Afridel Management and has been building her presence through music platforms and YouTube.
Cotilda Inapo
Comedian
After a brief hiatus from the comedy scene, she returned to host the Arise Woman! Comedy Jam 2022 Edition and later headlined the Mother’s Day Edition that same year. As the founder of Queens of Comedy, Cotilda paved the way for many women in stand-up, blending courage, humor, and heart in every performance.
Dj Linda
Beat Weaver
A lady of many talents, Linda Amoding has been part of Arise Woman! Comedy Jam since its inception — in 2019, 2020, and 2022. While spinning beats with flair, she was also pursuing her degree in Accounting & Finance at Kyambogo University. Now working in dentistry, she continues to carry her love for the art wherever she goes.
Don Andre
Comedian
Don Andre (Andrew Odongo) is one of Uganda’s fastest-rising comedians, known for his calm, conversational style that delivers punchlines when least expected. Since 2016, he has performed across East Africa — including Pablo Live, Comedy Files, and Rwanda’s Seka Live — and at major festivals like Nairobi Comedy Festival and Kampala Comedy Festival.
In 2022, he launched “Chalk on Jokes,” a mental-health awareness comedy tour in schools, and hosts the monthly Funny Bunny Comedy Club at Wombo Restaurant. He has headlined the Showmax Comedy Riot special in Kenya and writes for Anne Kansiime’s show on Pearl Magic. In 2024, he premiered his one-man show, Unemployed But Funny. A specialist in roasting, he featured in Arise We-Men 2025, bringing his trademark wit and warmth to Uganda’s newest comedy stage.
Doreen Awelli
Songstress
She brought her voice and spirit to the Arise Woman! Comedy Jam 2020 Edition, lending heart and soul to my dream from the very beginning. As my youngest sister, her energy, dedication, and talent shone through every note and every performance, reminding everyone that passion, family, and art can lift a dream higher than words alone.
Dr. Hilary Okello
Comedian
Dr. Hilary Okello is one of Uganda’s most versatile comedians, celebrated for his clever social commentary, effortless storytelling, and ability to blend humor with intellect. He is the creative force behind the Uganda Must Laugh comedy brand — a hit stand-up series that has sold out multiple editions at the Uganda National Theatre and Theatre La Bonita since 2022.
Beyond stand-up, Hilary is also a scriptwriter, actor, and voice-over artist whose wit and timing have made him one of the leading voices in Uganda’s new comedy generation. He was part of the creative ecosystem behind Son of Opio and also opened the show with a standout performance that set the tone for the night.
In 2024 and 2025, Hilary continued to grow Uganda Must Laugh into a national comedy brand while performing across East Africa and mentoring emerging comedians.
Eduwado Kayondo
Musicisn
Eduwado Kayondo is a Ugandan musician and composer based in Kampala, known for his rich lyrical depth and evolving sound. He debuted with the track Omwana W’e Nabbingo, followed by Boy From Kampala and Coming To Zimbabwe. Since 2023, he’s steadily built his presence in Uganda’s contemporary music landscape through music industry showcases and digital platforms. Kayondo openned the 2025 Arise We‑Men show, highlighting his rising profile among Uganda’s creative contributors.
Evelyne Kemizinga
Actress
A founding member of Fun Factory Uganda, Evelyne has been a consistent presence in the Arise Woman! Comedy Jam shows. Known for her role as Mulokole in the popular sitcom Mizigo Express, she brings depth and authenticity to her performances. Her dedication to the craft and her ability to portray diverse characters have made her a respected figure in Uganda's entertainment industry.
Flower Gal
Comedian
Flower Gal (Edna Rose Tusiime) is a Ugandan comedian and actress known for her engaging performances and relatable humour.
A consistent performer at the Arise Woman! Comedy Jam in 2019, 2020, and 2022, she brings a lively presence to every show. Beyond Uganda, Flower Gal was part of the lineup for the First Lady Comedian’s Live – In Strength of a Woman show in Lagos, Nigeria (September 2025).
She has also been nominated for the RSW Talent Hunt East Africa 2025, a gospel talent competition hosted by Rise and Shine World Inc. in Kenya. On and off stage, she continues to share her comedic journey with fans through her social media presence.
Happy Kyazze
Saxaphonist
Happy Kyazze performed for the Arise! project for the first time at Son Of Opio show in 2024. He is a versatile saxophonist known for his soulful Afro-jazz sound. A self-taught sax player with formal training from Kampala Music School and Makerere University, Happy has worked with top acts like Qwela Band, The Ebonies, and Rema. His performances at Doa Doa, Pearl Rhythm, and Bayimba festivals have earned him acclaim, and he’s currently working on his debut album Sanyu, blending Ugandan folk with reggae and blues.
Jacques Rwothumio
Comedian
Jacques Rwothumio is a Ugandan comedian, actor, and MC celebrated for his down-to-earth humour and effortless storytelling.
He began as a school MC before transitioning to corporate events, later finding his comedic voice under the mentorship of Timothy J. Nyanzi. Jacques has since performed on platforms such as New Material Night at The Green Bistro and hosts Laughter at the Cave at Bunonoos in Ntinda — a growing hub for comedy lovers.
In March 2025, he premiered his debut stand-up special There There at the GZK German Cultural Centre, blending personal reflection, sharp observation, and self-deprecating wit into a memorable performance. He will also perform in the upcoming Arise We-Men edition of the Arise Project.
Kaabu Swaibah
Comedian
At just 16 years old, Kaabu is Uganda's youngest stand-up comedian, making waves in the comedy scene with her sharp wit and youthful perspective. She has graced the stage at the Arise Woman! Comedy Jam in 2022, 2022 Mother’s Day Edition, and 2025, earning admiration for her mature delivery and relatable humor. Beyond the stage, Kaabu is actively building her presence in the entertainment industry.
Katamba Kushabirwa
Comedian
A versatile performer, Katamba has showcased her talents in the 2019 and both 2022 editions of the Arise Woman! Comedy Jam. Beyond the stage, she is passionate about culinary arts, coffee, and farming. She continues to engage with her audience through live performances and social media platforms.
Kathie Kipusie Bagaaya
Actress
A founding member of Fun Factory Uganda, Kathie Bagaaya is an actor, producer, and writer whose creativity has helped shape Uganda’s contemporary comedy scene. She has performed in multiple editions of Arise Woman! Comedy Jam, part of the close-knit circle of Fun Factory ladies whose support has been constant since the show’s early days. Kathie has been part of the writing team for popular productions including the first and second seasons of The Hostel, Girl From Mparo and many others. Rumour has it that she is also a very good cook.
Kenneth "Pablo" Kimuli
Comedian
Kenneth “Pablo” Kimuli is a pioneering Ugandan comedian, playwright, and journalist whose work has shaped the country’s comedy scene since 2003. He rose to prominence after winning the first MultiChoice Stand Up Uganda competition, earning the title “Uganda’s king of comedy.” Known for blending wit with emotional depth, Pablo often draws from personal experiences, for example the loss of both parents.
He was a guest performer at the Arise Woman! Comedy Jam, Mother’s Day Edition, where his presence honored their memory through laughter and storytelling. Offstage, Pablo is a Rotarian and dedicated mentor of young talent. He founded Pill Power Uganda and Tangaza Arts Centre to support youth through creative expression and personal growth, and hosts Pablo and the Kids, a show that uplifts gifted children in comedy, music, and performance, thereby, nurturing Uganda’s next generation of creative contributors. He also hosts the monthly Pablo Live Extravaganza at the Uganda National Theatre, a vibrant showcase of comedy, music, and storytelling.
Leila Kachapizo
Comedian
A dynamic entertainer, Leila is known for her comedy, acting, and media work. She performed at the inaugural Arise Woman! Comedy Jam in 2019, captivating audiences with her humor and stage presence. Beyond comedy, she continues to inspire through her media and acting projects.
Madrine Nabukeera
Vocalist
Madrine Nabukeera is a talented vocalist who performed in the 2022 editions of Arise Woman! Comedy Jam; Women’s Day and Mother’s Day editions. Her gift was noticed while singing at a function, which led to an invitation to perform at the Arise Woman! Comedy Jam, in the true spirit of its talent discovery. Apart from that, she is a journalist, news anchor, and has served as a public affairs assistant, bringing the same poise and professionalism to the stage as she does in her career.
Maggie De Bwaiserian
Comedian
Margret Nansubuga — better known as Maggie Da Bwaiserian — is a comedian, actress, and writer whose humour draws deeply from life in Bwaise. She has performed in every edition of Arise Woman! Comedy Jam, bringing wit, realness, and reflection to every stage. She started comedy in 2015 after being turned away from film auditions for being “too funny,” and over time has carved her space both with her solo shows like Da Ghetto Gal and performances that challenge the status quo.
Mercy Geno Apachi
The Shy Poet
Mercy Geno Apachi is a versatile Ugandan artist known for her work as a journalist, poet, writer, emcee, digital marketer, and copywriter. She made her debut performance at the 2022 Mother's Day edition of Arise Woman! Comedy Jam, captivating the audience with her unique blend of poetry and storytelling. Her performance was described as "refreshing" and "powerful," adding a distinct voice to the show's lineup.
Mitirikpwe
Musician
Mitirikpwe Patricia is an Afro-Soul and R&B singer-songwriter from Gulu, Northern Uganda, whose music gracefully blends English and Acholi lyrics to tell stories of love, identity, and resilience. A member of the Cajon Music House collective, she began performing during the pandemic and has since become a familiar voice on Kampala’s live music circuit, with appearances at Sofar Kampala, The Music House Live, and Livescape Uganda. At Arise Woman! 2025, she opened the evening with soulful Acholi melodies, captivating the audience with her heartfelt rendition of Iyee, which had the crowd singing along.
Monica Ruth Acan
Content Creator
Monica is a Ugandan digital creator, storyteller, and MC whose humorous and heartfelt skits celebrate everyday life and culture. Through her online platforms, she shares stories that blend humour, reflection, and social insight — “bringing laughter and healing for the soul” while showcasing the beauty of Ugandan life. Discovered for her engaging storytelling on TikTok, she was invited to perform stand-up at Arise Woman! 2022, where she impressed audiences in both the Comedy Jam and Mother's Day editions. A former radio presenter, Monica continues to grow her voice as a cultural storyteller and performer, bridging the digital and live stage with authenticity and charm.
Nancy Kobusheshe
Comedian
Nancy Kobusheshe is a Ugandan comedian and storyteller known for her observational humor and engaging narratives. She began her comedy career in the early 2010s, performing at various comedy events, including Comedy Store Uganda in 2017. Her performances often reflect on rural-urban experiences, delivering humor that resonates with a wide audience. Nancy's participation in the inaugural Arise Woman! Comedy Jam in 2019 marked a significant milestone in her career. Since then, she has continued to perform at various comedy shows, including subsequent editions of Arise Woman! Comedy Jam, further solidifying her presence in the Ugandan comedy scene.
Nasasira Jordan
Comedian
Nasasira Jordan is a Ugandan comedian from Nyabushozi, Kiruhura District, known for his expressive storytelling and sharp observational humour. He began his comedy journey in 2021, inspired by acts like MC Mariachi, Agnes Akite, and Basketmouth. After joining the Comedy Store auditions, he gained stage experience and later refined his craft under Timothy J. Nyanzi’s mentorship at Theatre Labonita. Jordan has performed on leading platforms including Comedy Black Friday, Fun Factory, Pablo’s Extravaganza, Laughters at the Cave, and Laughing Maraboustork in Ntinda. He made his mark as an opening act at Son of Opio, where his energetic delivery and grounded humour won over audiences. Representing Kiruhura with pride, Jordan continues to grow his comedy career with plans for his first solo special.
Ninah Katamba
Actress
Ninah Katamba is a Ugandan actress and comedian, best known for her role as ‘Damalie’, the wife of the landlord KK in Mizigo Express. A founding member and assistant finance manager at Fun Factory Uganda, she has been part of the all-female lineup that has regularly supported the Arise Woman! Comedy Jam shows. Known for her warm, jolly personality and sharp comedic timing, Ninah began acting in O’Level and pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Music, Dance, and Drama. Her work on stage and screen blends relatable humor with a deep respect for the craft, reflecting both her personal experiences and her commitment to elevating Ugandan comedy.
Okello Okello
Comedian
Okello Oyena Joshua, known professionally as Okello Okello, is one of Uganda’s most inventive comedians, celebrated for introducing silent comedy through his flagship show Comedy Black Friday. He began performing in 2014 and marked ten years in comedy with a special show at the National Theatre in 2024.
Okello created and hosted Rich Friends Poor Family in 2017 and again in 2025, continuing the show’s legacy of sharp social humor. He also founded The Kampala Comedy Festival and stars in the TV series Senkyu Boss and Kajjubi’s Estate, which he co-writes.
As Executive Director of Marketing at Laughing Maraboustork, Okello continues shaping Uganda’s comedy scene and is part of the upcoming Arise We-Men project.
Patience Laker
Priestess of Verse
Patience Laker is a multi-award-winning Ugandan spoken word artist and poet whose work explores themes of womanhood, identity, and resilience. Since her early performances with the Katochi Poets collective, she has become one of Uganda’s most compelling poetic voices, known for transforming verse into vivid, musical storytelling. Laker has won several accolades, including the Gender Equality Voices Competition and the East Africa Poetic Hour Battle. At the Arise Woman! Comedy Jam 2025, she opened the evening with a stirring performance that blended rhythm and emotion—her delivery commanding silence one moment and sparking applause the next. Through her art, Laker continues to inspire and affirm the power of poetry as a voice for change and healing.
Raymond Rushabiro
Actor
Raymond Rushabiro is a veteran Ugandan actor, comedian, and stage performer whose career spans theatre, film, and television. A founding member of Fun Factory Uganda and graduate of Music, Dance and Drama from Makerere University, Rushabiro is celebrated for his commanding presence and refined craft. He began his journey with The Ebonies before moving into film and TV, starring in acclaimed productions such as Bala Bala Sese, Freedom, and Girl from Mparo. His work has earned him a Uganda Film Festival Award for Best Actor and an Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award nomination. Beyond performance, he is a vocal advocate for professionalism and discipline in Uganda’s film industry. In 2025, he joins the Arise We-Men ensemble, bringing his depth of experience and artistry to the stage in celebration of men’s voices in comedy and performance.
Rich Mouth
Comedian
Rich Mouth (Catherine Namanya), also known in some circles as Khatalina, is a Ugandan comedian, actress, and journalist. She was part of the inaugural Arise Woman! Comedy Jam lineup in 2019 and 2020, where her witty storytelling and expressive stage presence made her one of the standout early voices of the all-female comedy movement. Outside comedy, Catherine has pursued acting and journalism, showcasing her versatility both on and off stage. Though she appears to have taken a break from active comedy, her contribution to Uganda’s evolving comedy landscape, especially during Arise Woman’s formative years, remains significant.
Richard Tuwangye
Actor
Richard Tuwangye is a versatile Ugandan actor, comedian, and musician. He began his career on stage at the National Theatre before joining Theatre Factory in 2003, and in 2005 co-founded Fun Factory Uganda, shaping the country’s comedy scene. On screen, he has appeared in Queen of Katwe, Rain, The Hostel, U-Turn, and Mizigo Express as Clinton. He has released music singles including Can't Live Without You and What Should I Do?, and in 2019 hosted his first solo stand-up show, Laugh Conquers All. In 2025, he hosted the Son Of Opio show in 2024. He was slated to perform at the Arise We-Men show in 2025 but failed to make it.
Samantha Ainembabazi
Spoken Word Artist
Samantha Ainembabazi is a Ugandan poet, spoken-word artist, and curator, celebrated for her powerful storytelling and advocacy through art. She began writing poetry at eight, finding solace in words during a traumatic family experience. Her work explores body positivity and has inspired an art-based movement encouraging women to embrace and love their bodies. In 2020, she received the Artist Changemaker Award from the Global Fund for Women, recognizing her use of art to advance gender justice and human rights. Samantha also performed at the Arise Woman! Comedy Jam in 2020 and 2022, bringing her expressive voice and compelling narratives to the stage.
Seswa
Comedian
Seswa, also known as Seswa Waliwona Broker, is a Ugandan comedian, fine artist, photographer, songwriter, and creative writer. Renowned for his stand-up and skit comedy, he is the creative force behind the SESWA comedy brand, which has gained popularity on platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Seswa’s comedic style blends humor with social commentary, resonating with a wide audience. He has also hosted and performed at live comedy events, including editions of the Comedy Dose show at Wombo Restaurant in Ntinda, supporting both emerging and established comedians. Seswa is part of the Arise We-Men 2025 ensemble, bringing his multi-faceted creativity and distinctive comedic voice to the stage.
Ssuna Lawrence
Comedian
Ssuna Lawrence is a pharmacy technician turned stand-up comedian and one of the newest, most promising acts on Uganda’s comedy circuit.
In just seven months, he has graced stages like Comedy Black Friday, Pablo Live, and Funny Bunny, earning recognition for his easygoing delivery and clever storytelling.
In October 2025, Ssuna premiered his debut one-man comedy special, …And Now I’m a Comedian, at the Laughing Maraboustork Comedy Club. He also opened for the Arise We-Men 2925 show, marking another exciting step in his fast-rising career.
Timothy J Nyanzi
Comedian
Timothy J. Nyanzi is a Ugandan stand-up comedian known for his deadpan delivery and sharp one-liners. He co-founded The Punchliners in 2014, a group pivotal to the early growth of Uganda’s stand-up comedy scene. Nyanzi has performed on platforms like The HaHa Show, Comedy Files, and Just Another Comedy Club, and at international festivals in Kigali, Juba, and the Goliath Comedy Club in South Africa.
A versatile creative, he was the director and producer of Son of Opio and a key part of the creative ecosystem of the show, contributing to the refinement of the material. He was also part of the Arise We-Men 2025 ensemble. Beyond performance, Nyanzi mentors emerging comedians, building on years of experience guiding acts such as Nancy Kobusheshe, Colins Emeka, and Daniel Kalera, and serves as head writer for Comedy Grill with Anne Kansiime.
He is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Laughing Maraboustork, Uganda’s first fully operational comedy club, creating a consistent platform for comedians to showcase their craft.
Tindi Mustafah
Actresss
Tindi Mustafah (Veronica Tindichebwa) is a Ugandan comedian, actress, and media personality known for her quick wit and expressive storytelling. A founding member of Fun Factory Uganda, she has built a reputation as one of the country’s most engaging performers, using humor that blends everyday realities with sharp social insight.
Beyond stand-up, Tindi is a versatile creative, a professional emcee, stage and film actress, TV host, and former radio personality. Fluent in several languages, she brings a rich cultural flavor to her comedy, connecting easily with diverse audiences.
She has also been a consistent part of the Arise Woman! Comedy Jam, performing alongside her Fun Factory colleagues in support of women-led creative platforms. Her work continues to inspire laughter while championing authenticity and community through comedy. In addition to her work in comedy and media, Tindi has ventured into music, releasing a song with Simon Base Kalema, that showcases her versatility as an artist.
Titin Gladys
Comedian
Titin Gladys is a Ugandan comedian, events host, public speaker, and counselor. She is also the owner of Titin Caked It, a bakery where she showcases her talent for creating delicious cakes. A dedicated social worker and advocate for women’s empowerment, Titin uses her skills to address issues affecting women and children.
She has performed on platforms including Comedy Store and Stress Clinic, and has been part of the Arise Woman! Comedy Jam since its inception in 2019. Titin appeared in the 2019, 2020, and 2022 editions, and hosted the Mother’s Day edition in 2022. Her performances are celebrated for relatable humor, sharp timing, and a unique ability to connect with audiences.
Veronica Namanda
Actress
Veronica Namanda Kiwanuka is a Ugandan actress, comedian, and media personality celebrated for her work with Fun Factory Uganda. A founding member, she has been instrumental in shaping the troupe’s clean, family-friendly comedy style while starring in stage productions and films such as The Felistas Fable.
Beyond the stage, Veronica is a versatile creative—professional emcee, TV host, stage and film actress.
She has consistently performed at the Arise Woman! Comedy Jam, appearing together with her Fun Factory colleagues in support of women-led creative initiatives. Her work continues to entertain and inspire, solidifying her role as a prominent figure in Uganda’s entertainment industry.
ZKR Entertainment
Band
ZKR Entertainment is a Ugandan music and events platform founded by Roger Zihalirwa Kayabu (ZKR Pro), known for live bands and curated cultural showcases. The platform supports artists through live performance booking, event production, studio recording, music training, and rehearsal space, bridging Ugandan and Congolese influences in contemporary live music.
The platform and its founder, a seasoned Congolese bass player and cultural promoter, have collaborated with performers and bands such as Bebe Cool, Qwela Band, and The Nile Rock, while nurturing emerging talent and delivering immersive cultural experiences across Kampala. ZKR Entertainment accompanied Madrine Nabukeera in the Arise Woman! Comedy Jam Women’s Day and Mother’s Day editions of 2022, and also performed at Son of Opio in 2024.