For the past decade, singer Rehema Namakula better known under her mononym Rema has been one of the the top female singers in Uganda and she has worked day and night to make sure she keeps the candle burning.
The angelic voiced singer has emerged as one of Uganda's most loved and celebrated artists, a status she has earned through her unmatched talents.
In this article, the writer brings you some of the facts you might have not heard about the singer and in case you love such content, let's Know in the comment section. Also let's Know which celebrity you would love us to profile.
Early life and Education
According to publicly available information, Rema was born on April 24, 1991 in Kampala and she is the last child of her late parents, Hamida Nabbosa and Mukiibi Ssemakula.
Rema started her education journey from kitante primary school before joining St. Balikudembe S.S for her O'level and A' level studies. Later she joined Kyambogo University for higher studies but she dropped out before completing her degree.
career
Rema's entry into music was not just because of passion, but also a means of survival. She began her career singing backup for renowned Ugandan artists like Bebe Cool and Halima Namakula.
In 2013, Rema Namakula left Gagamel entertainment after revealing the launch of her solo album on Television. She made the announcement without the knowledge of Bebe Cool. This didn't leave Bebe speaking the same language hence her departure.
Rema's departure from Gagamel was an opportunity in disguise as she embraced her solo career, and her debut release, the Nince Henry-penned song Oli Wange, swiftly elevated her standing in the Ugandan music scene.
2016 marked a significant milestone for Rema Namakula as she was chosen to represent Uganda in the fourth season of Coke Studio Africa.
Joining a prestigious lineup that included Lydia Jazmine, Eddy Kenzo, Radio and Weasel, Rema collaborated with global stars like 2Baba from Nigeria and Trey Songz from the United States.
This exclusive event served as a global platform for diverse musicians to unite, collaborate, and share their music with a worldwide audience.
Relationship
Rema's personal life has been as eventful as her career. She was in a long-term relationship with fellow Ugandan artist Eddy Kenzo, with whom she shares a daughter, Aamaal Musuuza.
The couple parted ways in 2017 amidst much media attention. The love story continued as Rema Namakula and Dr. Hamza Ssebunya exchanged vows in holy matrimony on November 14, 2019, at Namakula’s residence in Nabbingo, near Kampala.
Adding to the joy, on November 7, 2021, Rema Namakula welcomed her second child, a beautiful baby girl named Aaliyah Ssebunya, with her husband Hamza Ssebunya.
Rema's discography is a testament to her versatility as an artist. Some of her notable songs include Oli Wange, Katonotono, Lean On Me, Lowooza Kunze, Deep in Love, Muchuuzi, Atuuse, Kukaliba, Fire Tonight, Ceaze and Sekkle, Banyabo, and Akaffe Che.
Her music, often revolving around themes of love and social issues, has resonated with fans across Uganda and beyond
Awards and recognitions
Rema Namakula's works in the Ugandan music industry have not gone unnoticed as she has been recognized with multiple awards.
She has won several HiPipo Music Awards, including Best Female Artist, Best Breakthrough Artist, Best R&B Song for Oli Wange, and more. Her song Gutujja was named Record of the Yeari n 2020.