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MARKETER OF THE MONTH-AUGUST

Who is Joseph Ntale?

Joseph in an accomplished professional marketer with experience spanning 10 years especially in financial services.

He is the current Marketing and Brand Manager at National Social Security Fund (NSSF) directly in charge of advertising, brand marketing, events and campaigns among other functions at the fund.

Experience

His career started at Multi Choice in 2009 where he served as a Marketing and Sales Administrator for 2 years.

Prior to NSSF, Joseph worked with different brands in the banking sector including NCBA Uganda as a Marketing and Product Development Manager for over a year.

At NCBA, his key responsibilities included new product development and implementation and performance tracking, Product enrichment initiatives, innovations and reviews to increase uptake, Strategic Marketing, Planning and execution, Marketing communication and Public relations, Brand Management among others.

Joseph has also worked with Housing Finance Bank as Product Development & Customer Experience specialist for over 2 years having been elevated from Customer Experience & Quality Assurance officer role.

Why Joseph stands out

Joseph was part of the team that was tasked to reposition the NSSF brand from its previous outlook to the current highly engaged, innovative and most sought after brand in the market.

He has been at the fund for more than six years and has been instrumental in key projects including NSSF Friends with Benefits, NSSF Mobile, the fund rebrand and recently the NSSF smart Visa card in partnership with Centenary Bank

Education

The graduate of Bachelor’s degree in Business statistics from Makerere University is also a professional marketer with a postgraduate diploma in professional marketing hence MCIM status with the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM UK). He also holds an MBA, Marketing Management among his other academic qualifications.

Joseph! You`ve been served

TOP CAMPAIGNS AND MORE FOR AUGUST 2022

August was a very exciting month on the marketing calendar with over 15 key campaigns across various sectors.

The following top 5 campaigns stood out for us based on the criterial below.

  • Big idea(s)
  • Integration of communications across various platforms
  • Execution
  • Achievement of Objectives
    1. The Rotary Centenary Bank Cancer run

    The long-awaited Rotary Cancer Run happened on September 4th at Kololo ceremonial grounds in a physical event this time round with over 40,000 attendees.

    This 2022 run marked the 11th edition as an annual event organized since 2012 by Rotarians and Centenary Bank to bridge the gap in the fight against the cancer scourge.

    In May this year, construction of the Bunkers commenced and a total cost of constructing these is over Ugx 13.5bn

    Main sponsors Centenary Bank committed UGX. 150M towards the preparation of this year’s Cancer Run. The bank confirmed that from 2016 to 2021, at least 2.3bn was available in the bank, and are aiming to raise UShs11.2billion to complete the construction of the Bunkers which will house the modern cancer screening and treatment machines; the Linear Accelerators in the coming runs.

    Execution

    Registration for the Rotary Cancer Run 2022 started at all Centenary Bank Branches in Kampala, Rotary Cancer Programme Uganda Offices in Muyenga, Uganda Rotary office on 9th Floor NIC Building and Capital shoppers outlets, at only 25,000 shillings. Over 40,000 attendees bought these kits making it the most attended event so far this year.

    Over the years, the Rotary Cancer Run has attracted over 50,000 participants annually from Uganda and the diaspora who have supported either through direct donations, charity drives, or by attending the run to raise funds to set up facilities for Cancer treatment in Uganda.

    The 11th edition of the annual Rotary Cancer Run was sponsored by Centenary Bank, Parliament of Uganda, supported by New Vision, Rwenzori, MAAD Advertisement among others.

    Kudos to all the brands involved in organizing this amazing CSR campaign.

     

    1. The 30th Anniversary of Monitor Publications

    Thirty years ago, audiences woke up at the crack of dawn to buy The Monitor newspaper to read about news on the Cabinet reshuffle and the release of student exams—two events that usually provided the largest circulation numbers. Television audiences tuned in for appointment viewership during prime time.

    Daily Monitor was pulled through a dingy basement to putting up its own home despite ‘government denial’ of adverts and threats.  

    Not all companies thrive for all that period of time, several others fail mostly because of managerial issues or some other challenges hence worth celebrating.

    Execution

    The campaign that started beginning of 2022 was later formally given a grand finale.

    The 30th Anniversary of Monitor Publications Ltd happened at Kampala Serena Hotel on August 4, 2022.

    This was a high-end invite only event with its key stakeholders to celebrate 3 decades of telling the truth.

    Various brand followed with congratulatory messages on all platforms

    Congratulations to the teams at Daily Monitor Publications upon this great milestone. 

    1. FINCA Uganda at 30

    The Year 2022 marks 30 years of FINCA Uganda (MDI) celebrations and they did that in a big campaign with various activities including CSR.

    The big idea

    Part of FINCA’s core values is to support growth in all its ramifications

    As part of the 30th anniversary celebrations that started beginning of year, FINCA Uganda in partnership with National Forestry Authority (NFA) embarked on a forest restoration initiative worth Ugx 100,000,000 restoring sixty (60) hectares of forest land.

    The exercise will cover a period of five (5) years and the restoration planting will be spread ten (10) central forest reserves across the country.

    The first restoration planting was launched in Bajo Central Forest Reserve (CFR) in Bbaale constituency, Kayunga district.

    Execution

    The function was graced by the Minister of State for Finance Amos Lugoolobi and Ntenjeru Member of Parliament, the FINCA Board Chair-Olive Lumonya, the Executive Director National Forestry Authority, FINCA International Board Representatives as well as the FINCA Uganda management committee, NFA staff and communities adjacent to Bajo CFR.

    FINCA is cognizant of the need to preserve the environment for the present and future generations. At the end of this 5-year period, the brand should have restored over 60 hectares of forest cover.

    Congratulations to FINCA Uganda (MDI) upon this milestone and kudos to all the partners involved in crafting this 30th anniversary campaign.

    1. Rocket Health `Awo ku near`

    Rocket Health is a telemedicine provider, operating a 24/7 call centre manned by qualified and licensed medical doctors.

    With remote doctor consultations, mobile laboratory sample pick-ups and pharmacy deliveries, Rocket Health offers a unique end-to end experience that guarantees quality, reliable and convenient healthcare.
    For medical assistance, customers simply dial *280#

    About the campaign

    The campaign to launch a second clinic in Gayaza and was dubbed “AWO Ku Near” which picks inspiration from Allan Toniks’ latest hit, Awo

    People of Gayaza and surrounding areas have been traveling long distances to get quality health services, and to be able to use their health insurance but now Rocket Health is now bringing all these services `awo ku near` for the people of Gayaza and its neighborhood.  

    The new clinic is well positioned to address challenges of high transport costs to health facilities, limited specialist services, and equipment at health facilities among others that communities have been facing.

    The clinic offers immunization, minor surgeries, antenatal care, Cancer screening, family planning and Wellness check-ups services

    This is the second clinic after the one situated along Lumumba Avenue in Kampala.

    Execution

    Adopting influencer marketing, Allan Toniks, real names Allan Ampaire was named the official brand ambassador of Rocket Health Uganda.

    The “AWO” hitmaker announced the partnership in a recent social media post where he directed his audience to Dial *280# to access quality, reliable and convenient health care with a hashtag. #AWOKuNear”

    This was a smooth launch and we definitely liked it.

    5.Kiss FM Launch

    Earlier this year, Hot 100 FM Radio officially announced its closure after over 15 years on air.

    A new station was born after Hot 100 FM tumbled down the steep ravine of business failure through ana acquisition by Capital Radio Limited.

    Hot 100 FM was previously owned by Aga Sekalala Jr, who is also Managing Director of Radio Simba.

    The acquisition is in a bid to revive its fortunes in tune with the most appealing music for the growing youth segment.

    Launched on Monday 29th August 2022 the station kickstarted programming on FM frequency 100.9 with veteran Radio personality McKenzie as host.

    The big idea

    The new station is set to entertain urban youth with ‘Hot Hits’ and vibrant vibes from the station’s young presenters.

    The radio launched with an experienced morning show that will be done by Brian McKenzie from 6:00AM -10:00 AM who carries the brand DNA and is expected to mentor and guide the rest of the young presenters.

    Execution

    Kampala woke up to a team of cyclists wearing Kiss FM branded reflector jackets with a clear message of a new radio station in town.

    That was extended by social media by selected micro influencers with the sister company Capital FM endorsement.

    Since then, the rave has continued to boost listenership and brand awareness.

    Kudos to the teams and agencies behind this launch.

TOP CAMPAIGNS AND MORE- JULY 2022

July was yet an exciting marketing month especially in the event and experiential space. Most brands focused their marketing spend towards sponsorships.

Our monthly evaluation of top campaigns and more was on the criteria below.

  • Big idea
  • Integration of communications across various platforms
  • Execution

 

  1. Club dome Concert with Adekunle Gold

Club dome returned on Saturday July 16th 2022 at the Lugogo Cricket Oval after 2 years of Covid 19.

This time, Nile Breweries through their brand Club Pilsner went all out and treated Kampala party lovers to one of the most attended concerts so far this year.

The big idea

The concept here was to remind Ugandans of how good the times were before the pandemic and re-ignite the spark that was dying out.

Entertainment

Headlined by the Nigerian superstar, the concert also featured South African singer and Dancer Costa Titch alongside Uganda’s finest entertainers including Sheebah Karungi, Vinka, Zex Bilangilangi, and Jon Blaq among others

Uganda’s top deejays including DJ Alisha, Kas Baby, Slick Stuart and Roja set the ball rolling alongside Sheila Gashumba and Sammy Wetala who were the day’s emcees.

Because of the massive build up, partiers started checking in at Crocket Oval Lugogo as early as midday. They were given a first dose of entertainment in the exclusive Club Dome party that set the pace for the main event that would continue until midnight.

 The experience

At exactly 10:30PM, Costa Titch stepped on stage leading the already hyped crowd in an Amapiano set that included his famous hits like My Gang and Big Flexa. This was a moment of revelation as the crowds sang along as they danced to his music.

The day’s last performer was Adehnle Gold who stepped on stage a few minutes after 11PM. Clad in African style; he kicked off his performance amid cheers from his fans.

He sang his top hits like it is what it is, Energy, Sona among others that kept the partiers on their feet for all of his time on stage.

This was a well-planned and executed integrated campaign for over a period of 5 weeks with bar activations, TV entertainment show drives; digital marketing including social media push

This concert has really lived up to expectations of Club Beer`s target audience

  1. Roast & Rhyme, Jinja edition

On the evening of 1 July, the iconic Jinja Bridge was lit with red, yellow the Bell Lager colors, and green in honor of Roast and Rhyme.

The popular picnic-style event – dubbed the “Nyam on the Nile” edition was held from 1st to 3rd July at the Source of the Nile Gardens (Nile Park) on the banks of River Nile in Jinja, as the organizers Bell Lager and Swangz Avenue delivered a memorable, fun-filled experience to attendees.

The experience

For those travelling from Kampala by road, the fun started at the famous Namawojjolo Meat Market on the Kampala-Jinja Highway, as those that bought chicken from the vendors were given free Bell Lager coupons to be redeemed at the venue.

On Friday night, guests enjoyed a karaoke evening by a bonfire, where those that were interested performed for friends and family.

Later on, DJ Ali Breezy backed these up with great mixes that ushered in Saturday.

On Saturday, guests enjoyed exciting group games like beer pong, ludo, matatu and many more as DJ Ali Breezy provided some background music for the crowd’s enjoyment.

The day also featured a cook-off competition, which saw random guests take on a grilling challenge, with the winner winning a limited edition Bell Lager grill, apron and other goodies.

On the musical end of things, there were live performances from Jinja’s princess Sandra K, the Abeeka and Myk Ouma’s bands.

Throughout the event, different food and meat vendors were on hand to serve the attendees tasty meats of all kinds, which were paired with Bell Lager’s Bell na Nyama combos and Bell Lager cocktails.

This campaign was the perfect opportunity to demonstrate all the ways through which Bell Lager let the good times flow for their consumers with a much-needed break away from the city.

We definitely liked this one.

  1. Jumia Food mart launch

Uganda`s online ordering site operated by Africa`s leading e-commerce platform-Jumia launched a quick commerce platform dubbed Jumia Food Mart to meet increased consumer demand for rapid delivery.

The innovation is intended at enabling consumers to receive their online grocery orders in a record time of under 20 minutes, fostering convenience.

The big idea

The last-mile delivery via micro fulfilment centers within the neighborhood, will revolutionize delivery times for Jumia consumers and make online grocery delivery faster than ever before across the country.

Customer value preposition

Consumers will also benefit from free delivery of popular, fast-moving consumer goods, including up to 4,000 items, from leading local and global brands.

More than 100 locations are now served within Kampala including areas of Bukoto, Kitintale, Nsambya, Kiwatule and surrounding areas.

Well done Jumia Uganda on this big innovation.

  1. Blankets and Wine 10 years Anniversary-July edition

As part of the 10 years of Blankets and Wine, House of Djs and Tusker Cider teamed up to fly in Nigerian singer Ayra signed under Marvin Records.

Ayra Starr performed at the picnic event alongside South Africa’s duo, Blaq Diamond. Other artistes that performed include Zullitums, Baraka, Karmazin, Alideki, Dj Sese, Fem Dj and Melodic Inversions.

This happened at Lugogo Cricket Oval Kampala.

The big idea

Ayra Starr brings a unique vibrancy through her music, which is in line with Tusker Cider commitment to delivering unique and exciting experience to customers.

Starr broke the sound waves with her debut single, Bloody Samaritan, which garnered her great popularity as many confused her for Afro beats star Tems. That is when magic started happening and all went into a bombastic show when she followed that with her other hit songs that Ugandans love most.

The campaign attracted several brands including Chipper Cash, Coca-Cola among others

As usual, planning and execution was excellent.

  1. Diageo One App launch

July saw Uganda Breweries Limited launch Diageo One App at the prestigious Kampala Serena Hotel.

The App is an innovation aimed at offering a convenient way for UBL partners such as stockists, distributors and bars to order for UBL products and get them in at least in 24 hours.

The big idea

The innovation is a lesson from the Covid-19 lockdown and now on Play Store and App Store

The App will connect business customers to the nearest UBL distributor based on the location of their outlets.

It will also connect them to the brewery headquarters for promotions and brand information

The offer

The business customers will be able to participate in loyalty programs by earning reward points made available to them on every purchase made.

With the launch, Uganda becomes the third African country to go digital on Diageo after Kenya and Ghana.

Kudos to the UBL teams for such an innovation.

MARKETER OF THE MONTH, JULY-RHONA NAMANYA

Who is Rhona Namanya?

Rhona is a Ugandan born professional marketer and the new Head of Beer-Marketing at Serengeti Breweries Limited

Experience

Prior to her new role at Serengeti Breweries Limited, Rhona was at Luzira based Uganda Breweries (UBL) as Head of Spirits (Marketing) a position she held for over 1 year and 10 months having returned from Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL). She returned to Uganda after close to her 2-year tenure at KBL where she served as Senior Innovations Manager (Marketing)

At KBL, Rhona accomplished tremendously including Successfully launching Sikera brand in her first 3 months, a record-breaking delivery which she achieved by efficiently navigating the new and complex environment, quickly establishing relationships, influencing stakeholders and seamlessly execution.

She also through her excellent execution abilities, rallied the team to launch Gordons Pink despite the economic and environmental challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic while achieving all targets.

Rhona wasn’t new at UBL, she served for over 6 years in various capacities including Head of Innovations (Marketing), Brand Manager, Mainstream Spirits (Uganda Waragi, Bond 7 & V+A Brand among others.

She is remembered for having  created, curated a launch strategy for Uganda Waragi flavors coconut & pineapple which have since become a national phenomenon and continue to contribute significant share of total brand volume &NSV together with spearheading development of a successfully 5year Innovation pipeline for the Uganda Market resulting in remarkable growth of innovation brands from 13% to 22% of total business during her tenure.

Key achievements

She spearheaded the repositioning of Uganda Waragi (Gin in Uganda) to recruit new younger consumers through pack renovation by re-launching the brand in a new bespoke bottle that was rolled out in 2016

Rhona led the team to execute the Uganda Waragi 50-year Golden Jubilee celebration by introducing a Limited-edition Gift Pack & launching the ’50 ways to drink UG’ cocktail campaign of December 2015

If you remember the exciting Kampala Cocktail Week concept, then its Rhona and the team that led the ideation and effective roll out of this amazing idea

Rhona has previously worked with various brands including MTN Uganda as Sponsorships and Promotions Coordinator for 3 years, NTV Uganda as Customer Relationship Manager (Corporates) a position she held for 3 years where she delivered on an aggressive monthly business target of UGX 200 Million in advertising spend

Education

She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Management from Makerere University.

Rhona has also undertaken professional training in Brand Building, Customer Marketing, Project Management and Strategic Marketing among other certifications from Chartered Institute of Marketing UK among her various qualifications.

Rhona is a marketing professional worth celebrating.

TOP CAMPAIGNS AND MORE- JUNE 2022

June 2022 close half 1 of the marketing year and Evolve was there to review the top campaigns and more during that month as per criteria below

  • Big idea(s)
  • Integration of communications across various platforms
  • Execution
  • Achievement of Objectives
  1. MTN Momo Nyabo Waaka campaign

The 4th edition of MoMo Nyabo Waaka bounces back on our list as No.1campaign of June.

Launched on May 7th to run for 8 weeks under the theme MoMo Nyabo Waaka, MTN promised to reward prizes worth over 2.5 billion shillings to be won by over 16,000 MTN MoMo customers and agents across the country.

The offers

Customers only need to deposit Ush. 20,000/- or more on their MTN Mobile Money accounts to stand a chance to win prizes including 24 brand new Toyota Succeed cars, and mobile money worth Ush 1,600,000,000/-.

Three lucky customers have been winning Toyota Exceed every week while 2,000  winning Ugx 100,000/- mobile money every week for 8 weeks.

Over 5,000 MTN Mobile Money agents countrywide, who excel in their business performance to get mobile money over the period of the promotion. What an offer!

Execution

An experiential and smooth launch was held successfully followed by countrywide activations starting with markets around Kampala Centra business district on the same day.

The TV commercial was smooth with a rich yet playful storyboard to deliver the message easily.

Billboard across the country, Radio and TV advertising followed. The campaign became popular when weekly rewards were started.

This was excellently executed. Kudos to agencies including Swangz Avenue for the best TV commercial so far, Talent Africa for the launch execution, TBWA Uganda for this amazing campaign.

  1. The Kabaka birthday run 2022

After 2 years on no physical gatherings, the Kabaka birthday run returned with the bang.

Over 80,000 runners attended this year`s Kabaka of Buganda with His Majesty, Ronald Mwenda Mutebi II, in attendance at Bulange in Mengo.

The Kabaka Run is an annual marathon that is held in celebration of Kabaka’s birthday under different themes. This year, just like the previous year, the Run was held under the theme, “Men against AIDS to Save the Girl Child”, with the aim of continuing to create awareness about HIV/AIDS and encourage men to get tested, get treated and eventually protect women against infection.

For the last three years, the run’s theme has been “Men for Good Health and Ending AIDS by 2030.”  

The run is part of the Kabaka’s five-year campaign to increase the uptake of HIV testing and treatment services, with a particular focus on men and boys. It has yielded remarkable results in the Buganda region, with new HIV infections down more than in any other region of Uganda over the last few years. 

We loved the CSR element this campaign delivers to Society that’s greatly affected by HIV/AIDS. Additionally, the PR execution for this event was massive hence the big attendance.

This has been the most attended run/marathon so far this year

Kudos to Airtel, UNAIDS, Majestic brands, CBS, BBS TV and other partners for pulling off such a big campaign and event.

  1. The NSSF smart card launch

Uganda’s National Social Security Fund in partnership with Visa and Centenary Bank on June.16th unveiled a three-in-one social security smart card that embeds NSSF functionality, bank functionality and a loyalty program, the first of its kind in East Africa.

The big idea

The Smart card comes in two forms namely, the Debit smart card and the Prepaid smart card. The debit card comes with an NSSF Smart Life bank account that can be opened at Centenary Bank whereas the Prepaid smart card can be loaded with funds and this card is available to both customers and non- customers of the Bank

The card forms a critical component of the Fund’s digitalization strategy geared at leveraging new technology to improve efficiencies, customer experience and ultimately make savings a way of life for Ugandans.

The new card will support the Fund’s transition from a laminated membership card to a functional Chip and PIN plastic option. Contributors interested in the NSSF Smart card will require to visit the outlets or centenary bank branches with the NSSF number and the national identity card.

            Execution

NSSF adopted partnership marketing by partnering with Centenary Bank, VISA to pull off such a game changer innovation across the region.

The launch was a high-end event executed by Fenon Events and we loved every bit of it from the setup, production and seamless unveiling moment of the card.

This was impressive

  1. A night with Mike Kayihura concert

Event and experiential marketing remains one of the hardest tasks to handle considering the various stakeholders and logistical requirements involved.

After successfully organizing sold-out shows for Nigerian acts Fireboy DML and Chike, Malembe Lifestyle focused on Rwanda for one of the country’s most exciting talents, Mike Kayihura.

On 24th June 2022, Malembe hosted the best concert of June 2022 with Mike Kayihura headlining the glamorous event at Kampala Serena Hotel Victoria Hall.

Mike Kayihura is a 29-year-old Rwandan storyteller and R&B singer and songwriter with many hits to his name. He rose to stardom in Rwanda after dropping several tracks including ‘Anytime’, ‘Zuba’, ‘Tuza’, ‘Sabrina’ and many others that appeared on EPs dubbed ‘Jaribu’ and ‘Zuba’. Kayihura also won the attention and admiration of music lovers through his Friday live sets at Lavanna.

His fans in Uganda had already expressed their gratitude to Malembe for spotting and giving such an exciting talent a platform.

Other Ugandan music fans who might have been hearing of Mike Kayihura for the very first time were just as excited to see what he is all about.

Execution

Malembe Lifestyle created excitement by offering free invites to winners who were involved in various challenges, put early bird tickets on sale which were later sold out before the event day

The event set up was done by Fenon Events who never disappoint, and the performances were ones to remember

Malembe takes the cake for this one

5.Stanbic Bank, Prudential joint medical insurance cover launch

According to the World Health Organization Global Expenditure database, an estimated 38% percent of Uganda’s health expenditures are paid by individuals through out-of-pocket costs, followed by development partners (41%), the government (16%), and others (5%).

Stanbic customers are now able to acquire for themselves and loved ones, annual medical insurance cover of up to Shs20million, courtesy of Stanbic MediProtect, a joint offer by the bank and Prudential Uganda.  MediProtect is open to Stanbic Bank customers and any of their nominated dependents, irrespective of age.

The offers

The prospective customers can choose between three MediProtect packages based on affordability with the least priced policy being Silver—accessible at Shs 600,000 per annum, which allows policy holders to enjoy medical cover worth up to Shs 20million in annual value.

The Gold package whose premium costs Shs 1million offers up to Shs 70m in medical cover value for a year while Platinum category available at Shs 2 million gives policy holders nearly Shs 120million in annual value—and a long list of benefits.

MediProtect cover can be accessed by policy holders at over 380 medical outlets across the country, which are affiliated to Prudential Uganda.

Flexible cover

Stanbic MediProtect is a flexible insurance cover allowing clients who already have an insurance cover by their employment, to buy a medical insurance package for their loved ones and dependents who may not fall under their employer’s cover.

The product also covers advanced age adults of 70 plus years and can be accessed by the bank’s customers through Stanbic Bank’s.

This is a good product from both brands and the launch was timely.

Kudos to  the Marketing brains and partner agencies  for pulling off this amazing product launch.

Top Campaigns and More – May 2022

May 2022 was yet a good month for the Uganda Marketing space. Our monthly evaluation was based on the criteria below.

  • Big idea(s)
  • Integration of communications across various platforms
  • Execution
  • Achievement of Objectives

1. MTN Momo Nyabo Waaka campaign

Uganda’s telecommunications giant never disappoints when it comes to marketing. The 4th edition of  MoMo Nyabo Waaka ranks No.1 on this list.

MoMo promotion is meant to celebrate the resilience of MTN customers, who despite the two difficult years of lockdown continue to hustle to make it.

Launched on May 7th under the theme MoMo Nyabo Waaka, MTN promised to reward prizes worth over 2.5 billion shillings to be won by over 16,000 MTN MoMo customers and agents across the country.

The offers

Customers only need to deposit Ush. 20,000/- or more on their MTN Mobile Money accounts to stand a chance to win prizes including 24 brand new Toyota Succeed cars, and mobile money worth Ush 1,600,000,000/-.

Three lucky customers have been winning  Toyota Exceed every week while 2,000  winning Ugx 100,000/- mobile money every week for 8 weeks.

Over 5,000 MTN Mobile Money agents countrywide, who excel in their business performance to get mobile money over the period of the promotion. What an offer!

Execution

An experiential  and smooth launch was held successfully followed by countrywide activations starting with markets around Kampala Centra business district on the same day.

The TV commercial was smooth with a rich yet playful storyboard to deliver the message easily.

Billboard across the country, Radio and TV advertising followed. The campaign became popular when weekly rewards were started.

This was excellently executed. Kudos to agencies including Swangz Avenue for the best TV commercial so far, Talent Africa for the launch execution, TBWA Uganda, and everyone behind this amazing campaign.

2. Stanbic Bank One step closer campaign

A creeping social media hashtag #OneStepCloser has been gaining popularity in recent months without being linked to any brand.

This raised talkability when Stanbic Bank Uganda unveiled it as the lender’s new brand campaign aimed at rallying Ugandans to pursue their dreams and rebuild their businesses after the pandemic.

The big idea

The #OneStepCloser campaign aims at reassuring Ugandans that no matter what they have been through, they shouldn’t give up on their dreams and that every effort they invest helps them to get closer to achieving their bigger goals.

The brand campaign was aimed at cheering Ugandans to believe and not to give up on their dreams with Stanbic Bank as their partner.

Execution

Stanbic Bank has over the years used story telling as a key tool to deliver outstanding campaigns.  This story was placed in context of the country  having returned from nearly two years of a pandemic induced lockdown. The economy was half at work with critical sectors such as education, and entertainment, own, this affected businesses with many losing revenues while others closed entirely.

The campaign was executed with both below and above the line initiatives that made it highly popular.

This was marketing supremacy by Uganda`s top most bank. We liked it.

3. MTN Uganda Hip Hop awards 2022

 No. 3 was the 2022 Hip-Hop awards held on Saturday, 28th May 2022 with the aim of recognizing accomplished hip-hop artists, will also uplift virgin talent through the MTN Pulse Cypher challenge.

This was after 5 years of successfully organizing the MTN UG Hip-Hop awards. The sixth edition of the MTN UG Hip-Hop awards was superior to those before.

The MTN Pulse Cypher allows new and undiscovered talent to showcase their abilities in an online Hip-Hop rap battle which has been elevated to another level. The winner of the MTN Pulse Cypher took home UGX2million, while the second and third walked away with UGX1.5million and UGX1million respectively.

To take part in the MTN Pulse Cypher and stand a chance to win the prize money, Pulsers were required to download the MTN Pulse Cypher beat from the MTN Pulse microsite, recorded a one-minute video of themselves rapping to the beat and then uploaded the video on Instagram or Twitter and tag MTN with the hashtag #MTNPulseCypher

It is based on these submissions that judges selected the top 10 contenders who faced-off in the MTN Pulse studio that later informed the choice of the top 5 finalists.

The  2022 awards took place at a glamorous gala executed by Talent Africa Group.

Kudos to UG Hip-Hop Awards, MTN, co-sponsors including Mountain Dew and Magic TV.  The youth in Uganda surely loved this edition.

4. Absa Bank Uganda Family protection insurance plan

No. 5 was the Absa Uganda, Prudential Uganda Family Protection Plan launch.

This life insurance policy was designed to help families plan for the financial needs faced during the loss of  loved ones who are either members or immediate member of a family.

The policy caters to funeral expenses and other paybacks to help families navigate the unexpected hardships that arise during times of loss and grief.

The  new product/cover is  now available to customers in three attractive packages of shs5,000, Ugx 10,000 and Ugx 20,000 per month.

These two brands identified a big problem  of a very low uptake of insurance in Uganda, with even lower statistics when considering life insurance.

Through partnership marketing, Prudential and Absa Uganda shall expand the Bancassurance offer towards ensuring that more Ugandans are insured as part of the drive to deepen financial inclusion in the country. We surely liked that.

The launch was executed simply with visibility of both brands coupled with other various tactics that made it excellent.

Kudos to both Absa and Prudential Uganda teams for thinking out of the box on this new product launch

5. Sprite Uganda new look launch by Cocacola

At no. 4 was the  unveiling of the new iconic look for sparkling lemon-lime flavored soft drink Sprite in a clear polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic bottle packaging by Coca-Cola Uganda was among  key product launches we liked in May.

Uganda becomes the 5th African market to introduce the Sprite clear PET, after South Africa, Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Kenya.

This shift from its iconic green bottle means more Sprite bottles can be collected, recycled, and reused to make new items – a move that is part of The Coca-Cola Company’s World Without Waste vision, which targets to collect and recycle the equivalent of every bottle or can it sell and use 50% recycled content in all its packaging by 2030.

This launch promotes the sustainability agenda which is a key element of the Cocacola business.

The launch that included various tactics including experiential, influencer marketing by an army of micro influencers, product testing made it out of the ordinary.

Post launch initiatives had mass advertising including instore activations, TV, Outdoor and Radio engagements to promote the new Sprite drink.

We also liked the big idea of clear PET plastic contributing towards economic empowerment as it will contribute to enhanced income for waste reclaimers in Uganda who depend on collecting and selling packaging waste for a living together with polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic bottle packaging being an assurance to environmental sustainability that many brands are struggling to implement.

Kudos to  the Marketing brains and partner agencies  for pulling off this amazing launch.

ESTHER AGWANG (CHARTERED MARKETER, DIPM MCIM,MBA)

Who is Esther Agwang?

Esther is an accomplished marketing professional with experience in brand
communications, media viability and digital marketing.

Education
Esther holds an MBA from Edinburgh Business School, Herriot-Watt University(Scotland). She is a Chartered Marketer and Member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (MCIM) with a Professional Postgraduate Diploma in Marketing. She is also acertified Media Viability Consultant among other qualifications.

 

Key achievements
Esther is a founding member and the first Finance Director of the Uganda Marketers Society (UMS) established in 2017. Between 2019 and 2020, Esther was among Ugandan communications and change management consultants that supported the Ethiopian government with the development and implementation of a Change Management and Communications Strategy for the electronic procurement system (e-GP) as part of the government’s landmark steps towards the e-Government system.

She is an Associate Consultant for CIM, UK at the Uganda Management Institute (UMI) study center, a position she has held since 2015.

Esther is currently supporting local media houses become sustainable by enhancing their viability. And when not busy with marketing roles, Esther spends her time assisting HR teams in different organizations with team building activities.

Did you know?
Esther started her career writing and telling stories as a Freelance Journalist at Vision Group. After 3 years of exploring journalism, Esther ventured into public relations and creating website content before diving into marketing. She elevated Watoto Church and partner brands the time she was their Brand Coordinator and Public Relations Officer.

Her effort cannot go unrecognized.

Esther is among the brains behind the brand positioning of Uganda`s leading Pentecostal church, Watoto Church, Power FM and all its partner brands. She led theirdigital strategy, content, and execution for 12 years. She is a lecturer and consultant with over 10 years of managerial experience in communications and stakeholder management, digital marketing, and changemanagement for local, regional, and global projects

She is worth celebrating

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Top Campaigns and More – April 2022

April 2022 was yet an exciting month on the Uganda Marketing calendar and as usual, we evaluated top campaigns and more that we liked based on the criteria below.

  • Big idea
  • Integration of communications across various platforms
  • Execution
  • Achievement of KPIs.
1. Fire Boy Live In Kampala Concert

Events and experiential marketing remains a key aspect of the marketing function yet tricky to execute.

Guinness Black Shines Brightest a pan African campaign was launched last year and it continues to be scaled across the continent.

Uganda Breweries under its Brand Guinness took the lead sponsorship for the Fireboy Live in Kampala concert organized by Malembe Lifestyle an event-marketing outfit that is making major moves in event marketing. The same agency is also behind the highly successful Chike Live in concert on Valentine’s Day.

On 30th April, all roads led to the Cricket Oval as Ugandans flocked the Lugogo based venue to catch a glimpse of Nigerian RnB superstar Fireboy DML who was in Uganda for his maiden concert.

Guinness and Malembe Lifestyle did not leave anything to chance. The campaign idea, execution was planned to detail to with pop up activations at various city bars prior to event day to deliver the “show of the year.”

The experience

Starting the day with rapper Fik Famica and Zex, revelers had no idea of what awaited them in store.

In between the musical performances, several DJs including Spinny, Slick Stuart & Roja, and Masaka’s own DJ Suuna Ben kept the crowds on their feet.

As the night progressed, they were given a dose of hip-hop from Navio and a taste of Sheebah Karungi whose riveting performance left the crowd on their feet

No sooner had she left the stage than Fireboy appeared on stage in all his glory. Starting off with the people’s old-time favorites like ‘Vibration’, ‘Champion’, ‘Energy’, ‘Jealous’, ‘High on life’ among others.

Thanks to his extensive catalogue of hit songs like ‘Peru’, the Guinness Black Shines Brightest pan African influencer did not disappoint throwing a show stopping performance that gave Kampala revelers the definition of a party after a long time without massive concerts at the Oval.

Revelers where also given a taste of the Guinness Bright House experience, which included an engagement in Guinness flavor, rooms that saw revelers explore the Guinness premium liquid.

Kudos to Prudence Mutembei the Guinness brand manager, Malembe Lifestyle, Fenon Entertainment for the set up and all other partners.

We were wowed by the Marketing prowess during this campaign

2. The Secret is Royco campaign-Unilever Uganda Ltd

For generations, Royco has been the key ingredient in preparing thick, flavorful and tasty stews.

This  year`s Easter season, East Africa’s most iconic spice, Royco, added flavor to marital bonds in a new campaign dubbed “The Secret is Royco”.

The Easter campaign took an unconventional and disruptive manner with wives stationed at busy Kampala Roundabouts protesting against husbands who have abandoned homes in favor of eating out and spending their resources on “side dishes.”

This set Kampala ablaze with viral engagement on social media together with micro influencers pushing the Kameeza money agenda. This tactic generated top of mind awareness

The second phase had wives announcing a ‘Women’s Conference’ where the secret to a happy marriage would be discussed.

It was at the ‘Women’s Conference’ held on April 13th , that Royco was revealed as the secret ingredient to marital bliss.

The campaign launch climaxed with a cook out and tasting networking session where renowned chefs shared recipes on how to best cook with Royco.

To create customer engagement, Royco was to reward three lucky couples to an all-expenses-paid trip to the luxurious Lemala Wild Waters Lodge in Jinja for a two-night stay. The couple had to post a one-minute video while cooking with Royco via their Facebook accounts and tag Royco Uganda.

 If the language of marketing is disruption, then `The secret is Royco` campaign was the buffet of talkability and viral marketing,

Kudos to the Unilever Uganda team led by Ms Joanita Menya for taking this big risk

 

3. Club Shorty campaign-Nile Breweries

After a successful `Unmatched in Gold` campaign, Nile Breweries Limited re-introduced their miniature sized 330ml Club Pilsner bottles to the Ugandan market to further offer variety of choice in size and capacity for the beer consumer.

Dubbed `Club Shorty`, the cool sized bottle was announced on the evening of March 18th at the Shorties Night, an event held at Casablanca Lounge in Kampala.

The reintroduction of the Shorty comes months after the launch of new sleek and portable Club Pilsner Cans, which have been well received in the market.

With this, customers now have a choice between the 500ml bottle for a longer sitting, the 330ml bottle for a shorter period and if they want to carry their Club with them, they have a sleek can which fits perfectly in a pocket or pass.”

We liked the big idea behind understanding that a Club Pilsner consumer has unique lifestyle needs hence offering a variety of sizes and capacities to ensure they have a Club for every occasion.

The experience

The launch event was characterized by fun activities including photo opportunities via a 360 camera, trivia questions by the night’s emcee Crysto Panda where guests won Club branded merchandise and performances from Uganda’s top entertainers.

Singer John Blaq, rapper Feffe Busi and songstress Pia Pounds thrilled the revelers with performances before DJ Roja opened.

Clearly, we liked the event launch big idea, execution and a smooth TV advert.

4. New Walker campaign-Johnnie Walker

Johnnie Walker, the world’s number one Scotch whisky wants to inspire people to keep Walking towards a more positive future with the latest chapter in its iconic global campaign.

The brand’s famous Keep Walking advertising has been inspiring people around the world with a message of progress and positivity for more than 20 years and this latest chapter begins as the world gradually reopens after a difficult 18 months.

The global campaign that sees a series of local partnerships that will drive tangible actions that ‘walk the walk’. In 20+ countries around the world change-makers and artists like DJ Alok (Brazil), CL (Korea) and Alfonso Herrera (Mexico) will join forces with Johnnie Walker to help reinvigorate social spaces like bars, clubs and venues as the world begins to reopen.

Johnnie Walker Uganda launched the much-anticipated Walkers’ Campaign Code named – ‘To the ones Who` this April.

The campaign was launched with a symbolic walk from Capital Shoppers Nakawa to Thrones Lounge located along Bandali Rise in Bugolobi. The walk signifies the everyday steps and leaps that the youth today have taken and keep taking in their bid to change and shift in culture.

During the launch, rapper Navio was unveiled as the National Walker for Uganda. Navio will flank Grammy award winning artiste Burna Boy who was announced as the Macro Walker and the Pan African face of the campaign months back.

Using influencer marketing, Navio was unveiled alongside other Walkers that include; DJ Turkana, a Ugandan female DJ of South Sudanese descent that featured in the Johnnie Walkers’ pan African TV commercial alongside Burna Boy, radio personalities – Timothy Code, Jaluo as well as Deedan. Other Walkers include celebrated disc spinner- DJ Slick Stuart, as well as bar marketer Raymond Kalemera.

The launch also marked the beginning of the WALKERS NATIONAL TOUR that will be characterized with upbeat exciting premium experiences in other cities like Mbarara, Jinja, Mbale, Masaka , Gulu, Arua and Fort Portal.

5. Uganda needs more of you campaign-Airtel Uganda

Uganda Needs More of You, is a campaign that seeks to showcase, celebrate and recognize outstanding Ugandans through submission of transformative stories to get financial support at end of the campaign

Launched on, 7th March 2022, by Airtel Uganda, the campaign will require participants to share stories of how they have utilized technology to positively impact the lives of others.  The submissions are done through the Airtel website airtel, SMS (162) or by calling 162.

The submitted stories are to be judged by a panel of judges and voted on by the public using the Airtel website or SMS.

On launch, stories including the story of Mr. Dickson Mushabe, who founded the Dolphin Fund, a unique crowdfunding website through which Ugandans are raising funds to support nobel causes within their communities, and one about Dr. Davis Musinguzi who founded Rocket Health in the health sector which unlocked the power of telemedicine to save lives in many places were cited.

Uganda Needs More of You Stories is being broadcasted on select media houses, online and offline channels including billboards.

We liked the big idea of celebrating transformational Ugandans, submission of stories by masses which creates engagement and great execution of heavy media buy both offline and online channels

CLAIRE NASSALI MUGABI(MBA)

Who is Clare Nassali Mugabi?

Claire is the current Marketing Manager at Uganda Tourism Board a position she has served for the last 3 years.

She is responsible for UTB`s marketing strategy direction towards making Uganda the number one  destination in the region.

Experience

Prior to UTB, Claire was at Diamond Trust Bank  having served in various roles including Business Development Manager, Marketing and Communications Manager .This was over a period of about 3 years.

Claire has in the past worked with Bank of Africa as Manager Marketing and Communications, Finance Trust Bank as Business Development Manager for a period of 4 years and made tremendous business shifts during her tenure.

She also worked at AMREF as a marketing and Communications Manager for a period of 2 years.

Why Claire stands out.

Her deep insight into strategy  and past excellent record in corporate governance including marketing are exemplary. She has pioneered key campaigns for marketing Uganda including Take on the pearl, Tulambule Uganda. The latest is the Explore Uganda, the Pearl of Africa a new brand that was launched early this year and was launched at the Dubai Expo late March 2022.

Education

She  holds a Bachelor of Business Administration – BBA, Marketing from Springs University of Colorado, a member of Chartered Institute of Marketing, UK , an MBA from ESAMIN among her various qualifications.

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SANDRA ARINAITWE(MBA)

Who is Sandra Arinaitwe?

Sandra is a marketing, communications, and media practitioner with a solid background in healthcare, real estate, advertising, print and broadcast media for over a decade.

Sandra is the current Marketing Manager for Rocket Health responsible for overall strategic direction, campaign planning, execution, brand management.

She is also the current Vice President of the Uganda Marketers Society.

Experience

Sandra previously worked at Knight Frank Uganda where she led the overall management of internal, external, and digital communication for the company and its retail portfolio for a period of  1 year. Her earlier years were spent at Vision Group where she supported business development initiatives within the advertising department and content production.

She also served as a Producer and Editor for several programs on Urban Television having worked as Marketing, Sales and Promotions Executive Sanyu Fm

Why she stands out

Sandra, who leads the country’s best customer experience team has been instrumental in building Rocket Health from the ground up. Rocket Health is one of Uganda’s most innovative and fastest-growing healthcare start-ups having launched in 2019; leveraging digital technology to offer patients safe and affordable healthcare which include consultations with medical doctors Under her leadership, Rocket health has won several accolades since its inception including 8 awards at the recently concluded Pearl of Africa Customer Experience Awards organized by the Uganda Marketers Society.

Education

The graduate of  Bachelor of Science – BS, Sports and Leisure Management from Kyambogo University holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Marketing, an MBA, Management Studies, Marketing Management from the prestigious Uganda Management Institute(UMI) among her other qualifications.

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