By Boona FM Newsroom
Boona FM cemented its place in the hearts of the people of Rukungiri and beyond after pulling off one of the most successful events in its history—Ekigutuuro Ruhenda Myambi—as it marked its 8th Anniversary in a grand celebration held on Saturday night at Rukungiri Main Stadium.
Thousands of revelers from across the Kigezi sub-region and neighboring areas turned up in overwhelming numbers, making the stadium a sea of excitement, lights, and unforgettable entertainment. The event, which some have already described as the “biggest ever in Rukungiri,” kicked off earlier in the day with a symbolic Anniversary Walk led by the Bishop of Kabale Diocese, Rt. Rev. Callistus Rubaramira, who commended Boona FM for eight years of transformative service to the community.
From the walk, the crowd’s energy remained electric throughout the evening with a variety of side activities, including the much-anticipated bicycle racing competition. The top three cyclists each walked away with a brand-new bicycle and cash prizes, drawing cheers from the excited crowd.
The stadium roared to life as the entertainment lineup unfolded seamlessly, with all the advertised artists turning up, to the joy and satisfaction of the revelers who were left in awe. Among the musicians who graced the stage were Uganda’s chart-topping stars Gravity Omutujju, Mesach Semakula, Ray G, Vink, T-Paul, and Lydia Jazmine, among others. But what truly stole the show and sent shockwaves of euphoria through the crowd was the electrifying performance of international artist Saida Kalori from Tanzania.
Taking the stage at around 3:00 AM, Saida Kalori lit up the stadium with her fusion of Afro-folk and modern rhythms. Her magnetic stage presence, live vocals, and engaging performance left the revelers in what many described as “sweet shock,” as thousands sang and danced along in unison. Even after she exited the stage at around 4 AM, the crowd chanted her name, asking for more.
The business community was not left behind in the celebrations. Local vendors, bar owners, and mobile traders reported record sales, with many confirming that their stock was wiped out before the night was over. In fact, by 4:00 AM, new stock was still being ferried into the stadium as revelers showed no signs of slowing down.
One jubilant drink seller said, “We had carried drinks for two days, but everything was sold out by 2 AM. We’ve never seen a crowd like this in Rukungiri. Boona FM has outdone itself!”
The event was not just a celebration of music and fun but also a moment to reflect on Boona FM’s journey over the past eight years. Station manager Mr. Kakyene Namanya thanked the people of Rukungiri and the wider listenership for their unwavering support.
Speaking at the event, Boona FM Directors Mr. Maanige Wenceslas and Hon. Mary Paula Turyahikayo said, “We began with a dream to build a radio station that connects people, promotes development, and gives voice to the voiceless. Tonight, seeing this massive crowd, we are reminded that Boona FM belongs to the people. This celebration is yours.”
The Guest of Honor, Maj. Gen. Kahinda Otafiire, praised the directors for their visionary decision to establish a radio station that is driving development in Rukungiri District and beyond.
With security tight and organization applauded, many have called for the event to continue being hosted annually.
For now, Rukungiri will remember the night the stadium was too small to contain the joy, and Boona FM officially wrote its name in the history books.
