Veteran film writer and producer John Segawa has stirred debate online following his harsh criticism of legendary entertainer Halima Namakula’s recently staged concert at the Serena Hotel in Kampala.
Segawa, known for his outspoken views on Uganda’s arts industry, claimed in an interview with a local television station that Namakula’s concert lacked substance and musical merit. According to him, the veteran singer had nothing to celebrate musically and was wasting people’s time and resources.
“Halima Namakula should have celebrated being a studio artist, not a musical artist. While she marked fifty years, I believe she is a better actor than a musician,” he said
Segawa further argued that Namakula has had a greater impact on Uganda’s film and drama scene than in the music industry. His comments have since ignited a heated exchange on social media, with fans and critics sharply divided.
Some netizens rallied behind Segawa’s assessment, pointing to what they described as a dwindling musical catalog and questioning the artistic value of the event. Others, however, defended Namakula, hailing her as a trailblazer whose contribution to the music industry, particularly in mentoring young female artists deserves respect and celebration.
“She opened doors for so many women in music. Whether or not she’s still musically active, her impact is undeniable,” one fan commented on X (formerly Twitter).
Despite the criticism, the Serena Hotel concert brought together popular performers including Bebe Cool, Eddy Kenzo, Rema Namakula, Nina Roz, and Karole Kasita, in what many described as a nostalgic and emotional celebration of Halima’s five-decade-long journey in the arts.
