Ugandans across the world woke up to sad news on Wednesday after actor, comedian and former Rubaga South MP Kato Lubwama was pronounced dead at the age of 52.
Lubwama, a popular business and staunch figure in the country’s entertain industry is said to have succumbed to heart complications at Stana Medical Centre in Bunamwaya on Wednesday morning, according to reports.
But who was Kato Lubwama?
Kato Lubwama also known to many as Biiso in the entertain circles was a Ugandan politician, drama actor, musician, songwriter, comedian, former radio presenter and businessman.
Early life and Education
Kato Lubwama was born on 16, August 1970 in Kampala, and completed his primary seven (PLE) in 1983, at Nabagereka Primary School. In 1988, he sat for his Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE), at Old Kampala Secondary School.
Lubwama obtained his Special University Entry Examination, Certificate Other, at Makerere University Kampala between 1991-92, and in 1994, he graduated with a Diploma in Music, Dance and Drama, at Makerere University Kampala.
Kato Lubwama in Enterainment
As a businessman, Kato Lubwama was the Director of Royal Theater, Diamonds Ensemble, Image Africa, all of which have been credited for raising the flag of the Ugandan acting industry.
As interest in theatre going waned in the 2000s, Lubwama would transition to the nascent FM radio medium, furthering his renown on CBS FM Kalisoliso programme.
Lubwama formed a powerful partnership with fellow actors Abby Mukiibi and Patricko Mujjuka as their show vied for the most listened to morning show in Uganda. His performance name on the show was Biiso.
Kato Lubwama was also the founder of B24 TV, a local Ugandan television based in Rubaga. He also became a popular figure on YouTube channel with regular appearances on Kasuku’s Youtube platform and other digital platforms, most memorably on NBS TV’s UnKut.
Kato Lubwama and Politics
Kato Lubwama served as Rubaga South Member of Parliament (2016-2021).
In the run-up to the 2016 general elections, Lubwama was quoted asking voters to send him to Parliament, so that he can also ‘eat’ on that money, given to the legislators. He told the Rubaga south electorate that his second term would be for him to eat with his voters.
He, unfortunately, he lost the seat to National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate, Aloysius Charlton Mukasa in the 2021 general elections.
Kato Lubwama who contested as an independent candidate in 2021 said he left DP because of its corrupt officials, and together with other individuals from Buganda formed a pressure group titled ‘Solida’ derived from the word solidarity, and their mission is to regain the former glory of DP.
On June 9, 2017 Lubwama was among the 363 people who received medals from President Museveni during Heroes Day celebrations at St Augustine Catholic Parish Grounds in Zirobwe Sub County, Luweero District.
Shortly after getting the medal, Lubwama, a comedian turned politician said he was happy that President decided to recognize people like him (actors).
“President Museveni did not give me this medal because of politics. It was in recognition of what I have contributed to this country through acting comedy,” he said.
Music Career
Kato Lubwama was a performing artiste and decorated musician whose songs included; Tulye, Tetunakuta, Bank Yebyama, Abantu Bazibu, Akanaku and Dimitinya. His most recent release on September 25, 2020, was Tetunakuta meaning “We are not yet satisfied”.
Family life
Kato Lubwama is survived by his wife Ann Namuwonge, and together they had six children although it is believed that some children are from Lubwama’s other relationships.
Lubwama was a twin whose brother Isaac Wasswa who also passed away years ago.
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