HiPipo Money

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MTN Uganda has launched an exciting promotion this festive season that will see its over 8.4 million customers enjoy a Free Minute every day to call their loved ones on MTN. The offer applies to all MTN customers including Prepaid, Postpaid and Corporate Prepaid. Customers who wish to join this promotion can simply register for free by dialing *189#. Customers can use their Free Minute every day, from Monday to Sunday, between 6am and 9am.

MTN Uganda Chief Marketing Officer, Ernst Fonternel, described the promotion as a simple, innovative and value adding offer to their customers which is easy to understand and use and named it ‘Good Morning Uganda!’ Fonternel encouraged customers to register for the promotion to benefit from the Free Minute to reach out and call their loved ones, friends and family this festive season.

“At MTN we recognize and appreciate the value of our customers and it’s a great pleasure to allow them to make that one minute free call, every day, to greet someone special a ‘Good morning’ for the next 90 days.” concluded Mr. Fonternel.

About MTN Uganda

Launched in 1998, MTN Uganda is the leading communications operator in Uganda, offering Mobile and Fixed telecommunications, Mobile Money Services and Internet Service Provisioning. As of 30 September 2013, MTN Uganda recorded 8.4 million subscribers across Uganda. Visit us at www.mtn.co.ug and for our football fans www.mtnfootball.com. Customers can also follow us on www.youtube.com/mtnug and www.twitter.com/mtnugandacare for assistance.

About the MTN Group

Launched in 1994, the MTN Group is a leading emerging market operator, connecting subscribers in 22 countries in Africa, Asia and the Middle East. The MTN Group is listed on the JSE Securities Exchange in South Africa under the share code: “MTN.” As of 30 September 2013, MTN recorded 203.8 million subscribers across its operations in Afghanistan, Benin, Botswana, Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire, Cyprus, Ghana, Guinea Bissau, Guinea Republic, Iran, Liberia, Nigeria, Republic of Congo (Congo Brazzaville), Rwanda, South Africa, Sudan, South Sudan, Swaziland, Syria, Uganda, Yemen and Zambia. Visit us at www.mtn.com.

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Following the successful two day Business Training for over eighty Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Northern Uganda, the much anticipated training was taken to the Western region where over 150 participants converged at Lake View Hotel in Mbarara, to benefit from the programme that aims at empowering the SME segment with the knowledge and skills required to run successful businesses. The training programme attracted participants from Bushenyi, Kabale, Masaka, Mbarara and Fort Portal districts.

For the last two years, the program which is run in partnership KPMG Uganda delivers the technical expertise covered the following topics: Internal Controls, Working Capital Management, Business Planning, Interpretation of Bank Statements and Basic Knowledge of Taxation.

According to MTN officials in Western Uganda, the 150 participants were vetted from the over 280 entries received. The vetting exercise took into consideration the applicants’ ability to adhere to the tenets of business principles and whether they qualify to be categorised under SMEs.

Over the years there has been a phenomenal growth particularly in the SME market and this has formed the backbone of Uganda’s economic growth. It is with this in mind that MTN has chosen to consistently support this section of the economy.

The training is well suited for the participants, covering a number of topics ranging from creating and preserving wealth, book keeping and personnel management through business planning and strategy development.

Representing MTN Uganda, the Senior Manager Enterprise, Hazel Twesigye said starting this year, the training which initially handled 100 SMEs a year, has now been regionalized, with each region to be represented by 150 businesses.

This year, the first MTN Business regional training for SMEs was successfully held in the North at Bomah Hotel in Gulu on the 20th of November 2013, attracting over eighty participants from the districts of Gulu, Apac, Lira, Kitgum, Masindi and surrounding areas. All the participants were presented with certificates on completion of the two day Business Management training. Other regional events will be rolled out in 2014 to ensure that the regional focus is maintained.

Talking about the selection criteria of the participants, Twesigye said participants were asked to apply for the training, and thereafter vetted done by the consulting team as to whether they are indeed an SME and stand to gain from the training.

She said MTN has launched a number of products and services aimed at making the lives of the business community as well as SMEs a whole lot better. She pointed out MTN Cloud services as one such package that is increasingly becoming popular with business community as a one-stop shop for all their business related data/software solutions.

At the end of the training, participants were hosted by MTN to an evening cocktail, officiated by the Mayor of Mbarara Town, Mr. Wilson Tumwine. During the closing ceremony the participants were awarded with certificates.

Delivering his remarks, Tumwine said, “Training for Business people such as the one MTN Uganda has initiated is definitely a welcomed initiative as it provides business people with the right expertise to not only start up new business ventures but to also grow and sustain their current business to ensure optimum output and profitability. This is particularly important with the recent consolidation of the East African Confederation and the move towards the globalisation of business dealings”.

He urged the participants to apply the knowledge they have acquired from the MTN training programme for their personal development and also as a tool to curve an edge in the face of competition.

The dinner was also attended by representatives from MTN Business, the MTN dealer representatives for the Western region, NGOs and Corporates from Mbarara. The evening was crowned off with a draw in which some participants won WiFi routers courtesy of MTN Uganda to further enhance their businesses.

MTN Uganda has enabled job creation with direct and indirect support for more than 500,000 Ugandans and largely contributed to the overall growth of the economy as the top tax payer. MTN’s long-term commitment to Uganda is strong, driven and aligned with Uganda and the aspirations of its people – seeking to build and develop the capacity of Ugandans, strengthen the nation’s economy and enable ICT across all regions of the country. MTN’s long-term commitment to Uganda is strong, driven and aligned with Uganda and the aspirations of its people – seeking to build and develop the capacity of Ugandans, strengthen the nation’s economy and enable ICT across all regions of the country. On an annual basis MTN Uganda invests over Ushs.1.5 billion in the training and development of its employees.

About MTN Uganda

Launched in 1998, MTN Uganda is the leading communications operator in Uganda, offering Mobile and Fixed telecommunications, Mobile Money Services and Internet Service Provisioning. As of 30 September 2013, MTN Uganda recorded 8.4 million subscribers across Uganda. Visit us at www.mtn.co.ug and for our football fans www.mtnfootball.com. Customers can also follow us on www.youtube.com/mtnug and www.twitter.com/mtnugandacare for assistance.

About the MTN Group

Launched in 1994, the MTN Group is a leading emerging market operator, connecting subscribers in 22 countries in Africa, Asia and the Middle East. The MTN Group is listed on the JSE Securities Exchange in South Africa under the share code: “MTN.” As of 30 September 2013, MTN recorded 203.8 million subscribers across its operations in Afghanistan, Benin, Botswana, Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire, Cyprus, Ghana, Guinea Bissau, Guinea Republic, Iran, Liberia, Nigeria, Republic of Congo (Congo Brazzaville), Rwanda, South Africa, Sudan, South Sudan, Swaziland, Syria, Uganda, Yemen and Zambia. Visit. Visit us at, www.mtnbusiness.com , www.mtn.com www.mtnmmo.com  and for our football fans www.mtnfootball.com

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The eviction show on Saturday was unique from the previous eviction shows, this time around contestants had the opportunity to perform to their favorite songs. Patrick from Rwanda kicked off the show with a great rendition of Eric Wainaina’s Nchi ya Kitu Kidogo. This was followed by Kojjo, Hope and Phionah who took the stage next performing Mulembe gwa Kirya by Maurice Kirya, delivering a lovely performance despite the microphone interruption which did not throw the contestants off balance.

Next on stage were the powerful diva’s Nyambura and Daisy who performed the famous Kenny Rodgers song something inside so strong, it was a powerful and impressive performance from the two ladies. Amos and Josh surprised the audience and took a risk performing to Nameless’s Deadly. The two gave and incredible performance breaking the so called “Nameless Curse” looming over the Tusker Project Fame dome. After all the performances, the eviction results came in which saw two contestants shown the door of the academy. Unfortunately Kojjo from Uganda and the beautiful Phionah from Rwanda who received the least number of votes from East Africa and were evicted from the house.

The show on Sunday was under the musical direction of the duo Atemi and Tim Rimbui who have been on the show before bringing their vast experience in the music industry to the contestants throughout the week.

With less than a week left till the grand finale the contestants definitely brought their A-game and killed the mash-up’s. Daisy from Uganda and Nyambura from Kenya opened the show with a performance of I’m a Survivor by Destiny’s Child mash-up with the iconic anthem I Will Survive by Gloria Gaynor. The divas enjoyed their moment under the bright lights despite Daisy slightly over shadowing Nyambura with a more powerful vocal performance. Next on stage was the ladies’ man from Tanzania Hisia who performed the famous Femi Kuti song Bang Bang Bang in a mash up with Best You Ever Had by John Legend. Despite a good and energetic performance the arrangement of the mash-up itself fell short as the tempos failed to balance out perfectly.

Patrick from Rwanda came on next with a mash up of Misery by Maroon 5 and Smooth Criminal by Micheal Jackson, and it was truly a great performance as he demonstrated the vocal maturity he has acquired during his stay in the academy. Uganda’s final contestant Daisy came next and had the dome blown away with her performance of Rolling in the Deep by Adele mashed up with Crazy. She gave the song an emotional backing and this was recognized by the Judges who were equally stunned by her performance.

Hope from Burundi then performed to Trey Song’s Rendition mashed up with Coming Home by Sauti Sol, which Judge Ian called “a performance that was deserved of a winner.” The duo from Kenya closed the night with Alingo by P-square mashed up with Don’t Worry Child by Swedish House Mafia and got the crowd going with their dancing skills and got a great review from the judges.

The weekly viewing party hosted by Uganda Breweries Limited at Panamera Bar had revellers come out to watch the show and show their support for Daisy. Her performance of the night blew the audience away giving a standing ovation, a first throughout the season of the show.

There were two lucky winners of Watch and Win’ promotion who were awarded a cheque of UGX 1milllion from the Tusker Lager. Speaking at the viewing party yesterday Brand Manager Joy Mwine said that “during this final week there a huge UGX 5 million up for grabs for those participating in the promotion.” The night was rounded off with the sounds of DJ Aludah who had revellers on their feet throughout the night.

With just six days to the end of Tusker Project Fame Season 6, all contestants in the academy stand an equal opportunity to pocket the money plus a one year record deal with Universal Music Group South Africa. East Africa will now have to vote to for the winner of the show. Ugandans can vote for Daisy sending an SMS with the word TUSKER followed by her number to 8338. Voting ends on Saturday.

Contestants’ voting numbers:

Daisy – Tusker 7,

Patrick- Tusker 9,

Hisia – Tusker 12,

Amos and Josh-Tusker 6,

Hope-Tusker4,

Nyambura – Tusker 10

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British Airways has joined in celebrating this festive season by providing discounted fares from Entebbe to London and Europe across all its cabin classes this winter. Passengers can expect to enjoy discounts of up to 40% on tickets in World traveller, World traveller Plus and Club world.    

Announcing the development in a press statement today Faith Chaitezvi, British Airways Country Commercial Manager said, “As a full service Airline, British Airways would like to thank all our customers for the loyalty and support they have given us in the course of the year”.

She continued “we understand that Christmas season is a very special time for everyone and we felt that it would be appropriate to make a kind gesture by making it more affordable for family and friends to get together. By making it cheaper to travel to London we know many of our passengers will enjoy themselves because apart from London being a transit destination it is a popular end of year city and home to culture, cuisine and shopping “

Discounted prices are as follows:

• World traveler- $370 USD,
• World traveller plus -$580
• Club World ticket- $ 1,542.  

Outbound passengers can book seats between today (1st December, 2013) to 14^th December and can only travel between the 24^th and 31^st December 2013, while keeping in mind that all travel should be completed by 31^st January 2014.                                                                               Rates exclude all taxes, fees and surcharges, with prices subject to availability.      

Faith encouraged passengers to take advantage of the offer because London during Christmas seasons has a lot to offer in terms of culture, cuisine and shopping “this is why the city is such a popular year-end holiday destination” she concluded. 

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• GOtv has expanded its operations to cover four of  five of Uganda’s sub regions  
• GOtv is enhancing a smooth transition from analogue to digital migration for every Ugandan
• Customers will access amazing digital sound and picture quality at affordable prices, monthly subscription for as little as UGX 18,000.

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MTN Uganda has responded to a call for action against the silent but serious problem of malnutrition among school going children. This is on the backdrop of the rising state of malnutrition in the country. The Bushenyi Nutrition Marathon attracted participants from the Western region including a number of Secondary School students from the region.

MTN Uganda sponsored 1000 participants in the 10km and 5km races. This is in line with MTN’s commitment to partner with the Government of Uganda in developmental projects.

This is an initiative by the Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Mary Karooro Okurut who is also the Woman Member of Parliament for Bushenyi. She aims to use this platform to raise funds and awareness about health and nutrition not only in Bushenyi but also in surrounding districts and in Uganda as a whole.

The Chief Runner for the Bushenyi Nutrition Marathon that was held on Saturday 30^th November 2013, was the 2012 London Olympics gold medalist Stephen Kiprotich; the race kicked off from Ishaka Kizinda stadium in Bushenyi.

The marathon attracted a number well-wishers as well as MTN sponsored students from ten secondary schools. The sponsorship from MTN Uganda was to the tune of UShs 15 million.

MTN Uganda’s  General Manager Corporate Services, Anthony Katamba said MTN made a commitment  to pay for 1000 student runners from schools around the area, including; Bweranyangi Girls, Kyeizooba, St Kaggwa Secondary school, Ruyonza, Kampala International University, Valley College, Ngyeya,  Rwentuuha Day and Boarding, Kyamuhunga Secondary School and Uganda Technical College.

Katamba said its part of MTN’s cherished practice to respond to initiatives that impact positively on the lives of the community and the country at large.

 “We are proud to be part of this initiative which I believe will draw attention to the need to fight malnutrition, in the country starting with Bushenyi district. We have in the past responded to requests to support National Priority Areas through the MTN Foundation”.

The Bushenyi Marathon also attracted other Corporate participants including; Movit, Igara Tea, Crane FM, Hunter FM, Spring/USAID and Kizinda. Other sponsors of the Bushenyi Marathon include Ministry of Health, Movit Industries, Bank of Uganda, Fresh Dairy, Uganda Communications Commission, and Presidential Initiative on Banana Industrial Development, Mwanamugimu, and UNICEF and World Vision among others.

The best male and female participants in the 5km and 10km races were awarded with prizes including heifers, television sets, bicycles and mattresses to mention a few. This is the first edition of the Bushenyi Nutrition Marathon.

The MTN Uganda CEO, Mazen Mroué said, “This comes at a time when we have just concluded a phenomenal 2013 MTN Kampala Marathon that attracted over 20,000 participants to raise funds to take safe and clean water to the people of Karamoja”.

So far over 120,000 entrants have run the MTN Kampala Marathon over the last ten years and have raised close to UShs. 1.4 billion which includes UShs. 400 million that has been earmarked in the 2013 edition of the Marathon. This year, all the proceeds will go towards taking clean and safe water to the people of Karamoja through WaterAid Uganda as the implementing partner.

This donation was made through the MTN Uganda Foundation. The MTN Uganda Foundation is a not-for-profit legal entity that was inaugurated in July 2007 as a vehicle through which MTN Uganda implements its’ Corporate Social Investments (CSI). The Foundation strives to improve the quality of life in communities where MTN Uganda operates in a sustainable way. Over the past five years since its launch, the MTN Foundation has supported a number of initiatives in the areas of Education, Health, Arts and Culture, Environment, Community Development and Low cost housing.

“From 2013 going forward, the MTN Uganda Foundation will focus on three programme areas to guide its interventions. These include Education, Health and National Priority Areas,” Mroué concluded.

About MTN Uganda

Launched in 1998, MTN Uganda is the leading communications operator in Uganda, offering Mobile and Fixed telecommunications, Mobile Money Services and Internet Service Provisioning. As of 30 September 2013, MTN Uganda recorded 8.4 million subscribers across Uganda. Visit us at www.mtn.co.ug and for our football fans www.mtnfootball.com. Customers can also follow us on www.youtube.com/mtnug and www.twitter.com/mtnugandacare for assistance.

About the MTN Group

Launched in 1994, the MTN Group is a leading emerging market operator, connecting subscribers in 22 countries in Africa, Asia and the Middle East. The MTN Group is listed on the JSE Securities Exchange in South Africa under the share code: “MTN.” As of 30 September 2013, MTN recorded 203.8 million subscribers across its operations in Afghanistan, Benin, Botswana, Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire, Cyprus, Ghana, Guinea Bissau, Guinea Republic, Iran, Liberia, Nigeria, Republic of Congo (Congo Brazzaville), Rwanda, South Africa, Sudan, South Sudan, Swaziland, Syria, Uganda, Yemen and Zambia. Visit. Visit us at, www.mtnbusiness.com , www.mtn.com www.mtnmmo.com  and for our football fans www.mtnfootball.com

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MTN Uganda, the leading Mobile Money network, has partnered with Interswitch Uganda to further increase their ATM Cash out footprint by allowing customers to cash out at all Interswitch’s ATMs across the country. Interswitch Uganda, is one of East Africa’s leading integrated payments companies.

MTN Mobile Money customers can now generate a four digit TIN by dialling *165# from their mobile phone which can then be used at any Interswitch ATM across Uganda on a 24/7 basis to access their money.

Speaking at the launch at Serena Hotel, MTN Uganda’s Chief Marketing Officer, Ernst Fonternel, underscored MTN’s mission of making the lives of its customers a whole lot brighter through convenient and cost effective solutions such as access to MTN Mobile Money through ATM platforms.

 “MTN Uganda’s market leadership continues to be driven by our investment in extensive coverage coupled by superior quality on Voice and Data, while offering innovative Value Added Services and putting customers first”.

Fonternel welcomed the partnership with Interswitch:  “We are very pleased to be entering into this partnership with Interswitch which will give our customers significantly improved access to their money on a fast growing network of ATMs across Uganda.”

Interswitch Chief Executive Officer Muyiwa Asagba said, “We are delighted to be working with MTN Uganda to provide their customers with even greater access to their money via the MTN Mobile Money platform. At Interswitch we are firmly committed to rolling out our electronic payment and transactions services across Uganda. This agreement is the latest step in our mission to improve convenience, financial inclusion and encourage even faster economic growth across the continent.”

He added that the agreement forms part of Interswitch’s African expansion plans. Interswitch is committed to providing solutions that address local challenges by providing convenient and cutting-edge electronic payment and transaction services.

According to the Central Bank, Mobile Money transactions totaled Ushs 11.7 trillion in 2012, which was a 211% increase since 2011. MTN continues to lead Mobile Money in Uganda with almost 5 million registered users since their launch in 2009.

MTN Uganda has enjoyed unprecedented success since it was launched 4 years ago, now recording in excess of 25 million transactions each month.

As per the GSMA 2012 Global Mobile Money adoption survey, MTN Uganda ranks 2nd in terms of number of active Mobile Money customer accounts in the world.

About MTN Uganda

Launched in 1998, MTN Uganda is the leading communications operator in Uganda, offering Mobile and Fixed telecommunications, Mobile Money Services and Internet Service Provisioning. As of 30 September 2013, MTN Uganda recorded 8.4 million subscribers across Uganda. Visit us at www.mtn.co.ug and for our football fans www.mtnfootball.com. Customers can also follow us on www.youtube.com/mtnug and www.twitter.com/mtnugandacare for assistance.

About the MTN Group

Launched in 1994, the MTN Group is a leading emerging market operator, connecting subscribers in 22 countries in Africa, Asia and the Middle East. The MTN Group is listed on the JSE Securities Exchange in South Africa under the share code: “MTN.” As of 30 September 2013, MTN recorded 203.8 million subscribers across its operations in Afghanistan, Benin, Botswana, Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire, Cyprus, Ghana, Guinea Bissau, Guinea Republic, Iran, Liberia, Nigeria, Republic of Congo (Congo Brazzaville), Rwanda, South Africa, Sudan, South Sudan, Swaziland, Syria, Uganda, Yemen and Zambia. Visit. Visit us at, www.mtnbusiness.com , www.mtn.com www.mtnmmo.com  and for our football fans www.mtnfootball.com

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The 2013 MTN Kampala Marathon has received varied accolades from participants for the impeccable planning and seamless organization of the event. Specifically sited was the good security and the organisation of the flag off of runners in the different categories that resulted to less confusion and stampede at the flag off points compared to subsequent Marathons.

This year 18,887 individuals officially registered for the MTN Kampala Marathon but the overall number of actual runners far exceeded 20,000. The MTN Kampala Marathon has become the largest event on both the sporting and social calendars of Uganda. This has been the largest number of participants since its inception 10 years ago.

Participants also acknowledged the fact that there was enough water for all of them and a few added their gratitude for snacks like popcorn to snack on after the race. Others were appreciative of the great parking arrangement and tight security put in place for the safety of the runners particularly at a time when security has been of great concern for all.

MTN CEO Mazen Mroué extended appreciation to all participants in the 2013 MTN Kampala Marathon saying that their zeal to run for a good cause has demonstrated commitment among the human race to make life better for the less privileged people of Karamoja who are the beneficiaries of this year’s MTN Kampala Marathon proceeds.

He particularly thanked the partners in this year’s Marathon which included Huawei, New Vision, Stanbic Bank and Rwenzori Mineral Water. He also applauded the Uganda Police, the various Security Agencies, the Uganda Red Cross and Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) for their endorsement of the event and their respective roles in ensuring the success of this year’s Marathon. Last but not least he thanked the Uganda Athletics Federation for their partnership in this year’s Marathon as well as during the last 10 editions.

Mroué said that the function was such a success because of the particular dedication from the committed MTN Staff that worked through a dedicated Project Team to ensure that every aspect of the event was covered.

MTN Uganda’s Chief Marketing Officer, Ernst Fonternel said, “We take pride in the fact that the MTN Kampala Marathon is now Uganda’s largest sporting event however we are more pleased that every participant paid attention to the more significant fact that we can join hands to give back to societies we live and work in and change the lives of thousands of Ugandans.

He added that MTN Uganda is committed to ensure that the MTN Kampala Marathon continues to grow and to attract runners from both Uganda and the region. He noted that it is fulfilling to know that the event is used to collect proceeds that go to noble and sustainable causes that positively impact the people in the communities where MTN operates.

“We have dedicated ourselves to ensuring that we support the cause of improving the society we live in by harnessing the passion that we as Ugandans have within ourselves. MTN Uganda is committed to remain a responsible citizen through a number of Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives and the MTN Kampala Marathon is my personal favourite”.

Participation in the MTN Kampala Marathon is a personal achievement for the runners and continues to attract great numbers not only from within Uganda but as the event grows, the number of international participants also grows.

So far over 120,000 entrants have run the MTN Kampala Marathon over the last ten years and have raised close to UShs. 1.4 billion which includes UShs. 400 million that has been earmarked in the 2013 edition of the Marathon. This year, all the proceeds will go towards taking clean and safe water to the people of Karamoja through WaterAid Uganda as the implementing partner.

“All the participants of MTN Kampala Marathon are heroes because they run, and they run knowing that there is a benefit for others” Mroué concluded.

Notable figures in this year’s Marathon included the Inspector General of Police General Kale Kayihura who flagged off the 42km and 21 km races and also participated in the 10km race. The Olympic Gold Medalist Stephen Kiprotich also attended the event and flagged off the 10km race. They both commended MTN Uganda and its partners for this great and noble cause.

The details of the final winners of the 10^th Edition of the MTN Kampala Marathon are as below:

Men 42km

1. D. Kimwetic (Kenya) won Ushs. 14 million
2. P. Matheka (Kenya) won Ushs. 7 million
3. P. Cherotwo (Uganda) won Ushs. 3.5 million

Women 42 km

1. G. Chepchirchir (Kenya) won Ushs. 14 million
2. R. Kiboino (Kenya) won Ushs. 7 million
3. S. Jemutai (Kenya) won Ushs. 3.5 million

Men 21km

1. D. Rotich (Uganda)
2. M.Kibet (Uganda)
3. E. Chepkorom (Uganda)

Women 21km

1. L. Toroitich (Uganda)
2. A. Chebet (Uganda)
3. D. Chesang (Uganda)

Men 10km

1. P. Kipyeko (Uganda)
2. S. Mande (Uganda)
3. B. Somikwo (Uganda)

Women 10km

1. N . Cheptegei (Uganda)
2. R. Chebet (Uganda)
3. P. Chekwemoi (Uganda)

About MTN Uganda

Launched in 1998, MTN Uganda is the leading communications operator in Uganda, offering Mobile and Fixed telecommunications, Mobile Money Services and Internet Service Provisioning. As of 30 September 2013, MTN Uganda recorded 8.4 million subscribers across Uganda. Visit us at www.mtn.co.ug and for our football fans www.mtnfootball.com. Customers can also follow us on www.youtube.com/mtnug and www.twitter.com/mtnugandacare for assistance.

About the MTN Group

Launched in 1994, the MTN Group is a leading emerging market operator, connecting subscribers in 22 countries in Africa, Asia and the Middle East. The MTN Group is listed on the JSE Securities Exchange in South Africa under the share code: “MTN.” As of 30 September 2013, MTN recorded 203.8 million subscribers across its operations in Afghanistan, Benin, Botswana, Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire, Cyprus, Ghana, Guinea Bissau, Guinea Republic, Iran, Liberia, Nigeria, Republic of Congo (Congo Brazzaville), Rwanda, South Africa, Sudan, South Sudan, Swaziland, Syria, Uganda, Yemen and Zambia. Visit. Visit us at, www.mtnbusiness.com , www.mtn.com www.mtnmmo.com  and for our football fans www.mtnfootball.com

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The fifth and final Blankets and Wine Festival scheduled for Sunday 8^th December, 2013 at the Museum Grounds is set to be a thrilling display of musical prowess as Zimbabwean guitarist, vocalist, performer and composer, Oliver Mtukudzi takes the stage for the third time in Uganda.

Oliver, who is one of the few people in the world to have a beat named after him, ‘tuku’ which comes from a blend of Zimbabwean ‘Mbira’ with the faster Zulu township ‘Mbaqanga’ beats will perform alongside Uganda’s best afro-pop musicians, Maurice Kirya, Naava Grey and Milege Band.

Tusker Lite, which has been at the forefront in promoting Afro-fusion music, will again bring the finest talent to Uganda during December’s Blankets and Wine, which is the premier Afro-based music festival in East Africa designed to showcase genres of Afro-fusion music. 

Described as a the most recognized voice to emerge from Zimbabwe, Oliver Mtukudzi first recorded in the 1970’s when Zimbabwe was still known as Rhodesia with the Wagon Wheels Band. He later started his own group, Black Spirits, with whom he still plays and has released over 30 full-length albums and several compilations.

With his husky voice, the songwriter and guitarist, that is well-known for his graceful onstage dance moves has become an icon in Africa and the international scene.

Speaking during his unveiling, Tusker Lite Brand Manager, Harry Mwanje said that Oliver Mtukudzi is a legendary musician and it’s the reason they are bringing him to Uganda.

Added Harry, “One thing that makes Oliver Mtukudzi stand out is his music background with a his unique beat that he uses frequently to tackles social issues, particularly poverty and the AIDS epidemic that is responsible for so much misery in Africa”.

A quarterly, picnic style music festival, Blankets and Wine is sponsored by Tusker Lite and it provides a platform for Tusker Lite to show appreciation to consumers by showing casing the Afro fusion genre of music and in LIVE performances by a wide array of artists.

“This is a new concept for Afro-fusion music lovers in Uganda where they are always encouraged to drive down to the venue with a Maasai shuka, blanket or kikoys, a picnic chair, some Tusker Lite, a picnic basket and their preferred company then proceed to share in this music and lifestyle experience”, said Harry Mwanje.

The fifth edition of Blankets and Wine Kampala will be held on Sunday, 8^th December 2013 at the Uganda Museum Grounds starting at 1:00pm. Advance tickets for the event will be selling at UGX 50 000. On the event day, revelers will pay with UGX 70,000 at the gate. Tickets are available at all Uganda Wines and Spirits Distributors retail stores and The Hub Oasis Mall.

In line with its support for responsible drinking, Tusker Lite will be maintaining a strict ‘over 18 only’ policy for sale of alcohol.

About Oliver Mtukudzi

liver started out as a professional musician when he joined the Wagon Wheels in 1977. Now, along with his own band The Black Spirits, his appealing voice, captivating guitar rhythms and superb dance moves make his live performances really fantastic to experience. Mtukudzi sings in Shona interspersed with a bit of English, and the lyrics often have special or hidden messages. Many of his songs give advice on life.

Oliver sings accompanying himself on acoustic guitar, without his band, because of the tragic deaths of his brother, keyboard player Robert, guitarist Job Muteswa, and drummer Sam Mutowa and he dedicates his earlier albums to them.  As well as performing and recording music Mtukudzi has starred in 2 major Zimbabwean movies, Jit (1990) and Neria (1991) and there are soundtrack CDs of both of these. He has also written a musical about Zimbabwe’s street children. Over the last 5 years Tuku’s music has deservedly made a significant impact on the world-wide music scene.

He has won numerous awards and has featured in many TV programmes and prestigious magazines, for example Time Africa’s article entitled ‘The People’s Voice’ together with his picture on the front cover. In the 2003 Kora Awards Tuku won not only the Best Male Artist: Southern Africa Award but also the Lifetime Achievement Award. 

Geisha Religious Places Activations: Miracle Centre Rubaga and Wandegeya Mosque