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Wilson Bugembe, a prominent gospel musician and pastor hailing from Uganda, oversees the Worship House Church in Nansana, situated near Kampala.
Early Life and Education
Born in 1984 in Gulama village, Masaka, to the late Betty Naluwoge and Dreke Kilabira, Bugembe inherited his father’s musical inclination. Kilabira, a singer in the Hossana Choir Kijabweme in Masaka District, nurtured Bugembe’s early exposure to music. Tragically, Bugembe lost his family during his youth, leading to a period of living on the streets. Among his five brothers, only Bugembe and Brian Ddumba survived. Bugembe’s stepmother and stepbrother, Dr. Frank in Kyotera, also remain alive. Brian Ddumba, now residing in the USA, is a Born Again Christian, doctor, songwriter, and gospel singer.
After his parents’ demise, Bugembe’s grandfather, Joshua Kabanda, initially offered support, including education funding. However, due to a dispute, Kabanda ceased supporting Bugembe. Despite the hardships, Bugembe attended Stella Malice Primary School and completed Primary Seven at St. Joseph Gulama in 1997.
Bugembe faced challenging circumstances while pursuing his education, attending High Way College Makerere for both O and A Levels. Battling poverty and homelessness, he persevered through these difficult times, showcasing his resilience. Eventually, his life took a transformative turn, and Bugembe emerged as a prominent figure in Uganda.
Spiritual Journey and Music Career
After leaving the streets, Bugembe joined the Born Again group, a pivotal step towards his personal development. Overcoming initial health struggles, he defied expectations and became a leading gospel musician.
Bugembe’s notable songs include “Mukama Njagala Kumanya,” which marked his breakthrough. Subsequent hits like “Kamawo Eka,” “Bwalikujukira,” “Kani,” and others addressed societal issues, gaining widespread recognition.
Selected Songs:
- “Who Cares Who’s Single”
- “Omwoyo Skatonda”
- “Ebitala Bikutadde”
- “Mwoyo Mutukuvu”
- “Meeme Yange Ofaayo Nkusabira Worship Time for Nyo”
- “Essanyu Speed”
- “Leero Wanaaza”
- “Tembeya Njiri Wandibadde Mufu Komawo Eka”
- “Samson”
- “Bethlehem”
- “Olwaleero Mbaga”
- “Katonda Byakola”
- “Nangirira”
- “Oli Waggulu”
- “Mpangira Akawala Ako”
- “Biriba Bitya”
- “Bambi DJ”
- “Akaseera”
- “Buli Lwomukowola”
- “Lengera Embaata”
- “Bamuyita Yesu”
- “Munaabe Omusaayi Gwa Yesu Kani”
- “Kijja Kuggwa”
- “Balabye Nnyo Yakuwa Entalo Zo Essuubi”
- “Bwalikujukira”
- “Mukama Njagala Kumanya”
- “Nakowoola Mukama Nvunama gyoli Yesu”
- “Tulina Erinya”
- “Akasati Ka Yellow Twali Mudungu”
- “Katonda Talimba Erinya Lya Yesu”
- “Bibuzabuza”
- “Abajulizi Muzukuke”
Albums:
- “Yellow”
- “Njagala Kumanya”
- “Kani” (2010)
- “Ani” (2010)
- “Lengera Embaata” (2011)
- “Biribabitya” (2012)
- “Akawala Ako” (2013)
- “Sibiwulira” (2014)
- “Wanaza”
Awards and Recognition:
- Pearl of Africa Music Awards: Best Gospel Artist 2007
- Pearl of Africa Music Awards: Best Gospel Single (Komawo Eka) 2008
- Pearl of Africa Music Awards for Best Gospel Artist 2008
Ministry and Church Leadership
Pastor Wilson Bugembe founded the Worship House Church at the age of 19 while in S.6 class. Initially with only nine members, the church has since grown to accommodate thousands. Bugembe purchased a 100-by-100-foot plot of land, continually expanding to a 3-acre plot registered as Worship House.
Worship House, initially known as Light the World Ministries, has evolved into a 6000-seat church. Despite financial challenges, Bugembe relies on fundraising campaigns to support church activities, demonstrating transparency in resource utilization. Through fasting, prayer, and seeking divine guidance, Bugembe renamed the church to “Worship House” for its simplicity and memorability.
Pastor Bugembe’s journey, from adversity to prominence, serves as a testament to the transformative power of faith and determination.
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Pastor Wilson Bugembe has encountered significant conflicts with other pastors in the past, notably Pastor Bujingo. However, they managed to reconcile their differences and have since become friends. Bugembe attributes the resolution of such conflicts to prayer and fasting, emphasizing their transformative power.
While Bugembe maintains harmonious relationships with most pastors, his concerns are directed towards false preachers who lead people astray from the path of faith.
In the realm of politics, Pastor Wilson Bugembe holds a favorable view of President Museveni. Despite his admiration, Bugembe clarifies that he is not a politician and remains unaffiliated with any political party. He expresses his commitment to avoiding political involvement.
Bugembe appreciates President Museveni for fostering an environment where Born Again Christians can freely practice their faith. He acknowledges the president’s role in making education accessible since 1997, preventing him from dropping out of school. This gratitude led him to participate in the song “Tubonga Nawe” during President Museveni’s 2016 presidential campaign.
Notably, Bugembe considers Bobi Wine his best friend, despite differing political views. Their friendship dates back to a time when Bobi Wine, a renowned figure, selflessly collaborated with Bugembe on a song when Bugembe was still an emerging artist. This history of support influenced Bugembe’s decision to join the Tuliyambala Engule song, even though he clarifies that his chorus is apolitical.
Engaging in philanthropy, Pastor Wilson Bugembe runs a home for children and extends educational opportunities to the less fortunate. In 2020, he provided a scholarship to Fresh Kid’s sister, Trisha, enabling her to attend his Mercy Schools in Mende, along Sentema Road in Wakiso District. Bugembe, with support from friends in Europe, is dedicated to offering orphans and disadvantaged children the chance to acquire essential education and literacy skills.
Pastor Wilson Bugembe has become a sought-after figure for assistance among famous Ugandans, establishing a safe haven for those in need and actively contributing to the well-being of those who seek his help.
