Ugandan actress and humanitarian Halima Namakula never intended to be a musician –– until her version of a popular nursery rhyme “Ekimbeewo” became a breakthrough hit, launching her into the music industry. 

Namakula has four biological children and many adopted kids, many of whom are musicians, too. In 1999 during one of her son’s recording sessions, he encouraged her to record Ekimbeewo with his leftover studio time. It topped Ugandan charts within days of its release and remains her greatest hit today. Namakula has released five studio albums since 1999 under her own label, No-End Entertainment.

Before landing in the world of music, Namakula focused on beauty and acting. In school she was part of an acting group called “The Black Pearls,” and later in life starred as Michelle in “That’s Life Mwattu,” a Ugandan soap opera. In 2009, she was selected to be Miss Uganda in the Mistress World beauty pageant. 

In addition to her many talents, Namakula is passionate about her international humanitarian work. She founded Women At Work International (WAWI) in 2003 to create job opportunities for commercial sex workers. WAWI has mentored thousands of people on how to advocate for themselves and find healing to live their fullest lives. 

Namakula’s many passions and talents contribute to her overall popularity in Uganda, the U.S., and across the globe. She’s won awards for her various achievements, including the 2009 and 2010 New Vision & “Woman Achiever of the Year” recognition from DFCU and a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2009 Divas Awards.