Maureen Nantume is a renowned Ugandan singer and a well-respected figure in the country’s music industry. Born on April 18, 1984, she is celebrated for her powerful voice and dynamic presence on the East African music scene. Her music mainly covers Afrobeat and Kadongo Kamu—a traditional Ugandan genre—with lyrics often focused on themes like love, social issues, and empowerment.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Maureen Nantume |
| Date of Birth | April 18, 1984 |
| Place of Birth | Uganda |
| Nationality | Ugandan |
| Partner | Ronnie Muganza |
| Children | 3 (Whitney Nakalema, unnamed daughter, Kian) |
| Occupations | Singer, Songwriter, Performer |
| Labels | Eagles Production (2003–2014), Golden Band (2014–2020), Solo (2020–present) |
| Net Worth | $173,200 – $184,600 (2024–2025) |
Early Life and Education
Maureen was born to the late Robina Nakitende, an onion vendor who faced financial hardships raising Maureen and her two siblings.
Tragically, her mother passed away in 1996 when Maureen was only 12, forcing her to halt her education and find work to support herself.
She attended several schools during her early years—Masaka Kiwangala for Primary 1-4, Katale Busawula for Primary 5-7, and Agro-Links Secondary School at Namasuba for her secondary education.
However, due to financial difficulties, she dropped out in Senior Three (2002). Without knowing her father and lacking family support, Maureen was left to fend for herself.
Career
After leaving school, Maureen worked as a housemaid in Namasuba for three years, earning a modest salary of 15,000 Ugandan Shillings per month. Despite the hardships, her passion for music never faded, and she would sing along to songs whenever possible.
Her music career began in 2003 after successfully auditioning for Eagles Production Band, where she started as a backup singer and dancer.
She performed alongside well-known artists such as Mesach Ssemakula, Ronald Mayinja, and Catherine Kusasira, earning 5,000 Shillings per performance.
In 2014, after Eagles Production split, Maureen joined the Golden Band, a group including other prominent musicians like Ronald Mayinja and Stecia Mayanja.
Solo Career
Maureen launched her solo career with her first single “Siri Ndogoyi” in 2004, which highlighted the hardships women face. This song, alongside others like “Oyitirizza” (2005) and “Nkwagala Nnyo” (2006), earned her widespread recognition. Her 2007 hit “Abakozi Ba Safari” further established her popularity.
In 2020, she officially left Golden Band to pursue a solo career independently, joining others who had exited due to internal conflicts within the group.
Personal Life
Maureen has been in a relationship with Ronnie Muganza since about 2015. The couple holds a traditional marriage, celebrated with a costly ceremony.
They have three children: Whitney Nakalema, who graduated in tourism in 2023; an unnamed daughter born around 2015; and a son named Kian, born in 2024.
She is a devoted born-again Christian, attributing much of her success and blessings to her faith.
Maureen Nantume Net Worth
As of 2024-2025, Maureen Nantume’s net worth is estimated between $173,200 and $184,600, derived from live performances, record sales, endorsements, and event appearances. Her monthly earnings vary greatly depending on her activities, ranging from approximately $637 to $9,800.
Discography
Some of her popular tracks include:
- “Siri Ndogoyi” (2004)
- “Abakozi Ba Safari” (2007)
- “Nkuze”
- “Kiyungu” (2012)
- “Ndi Muzadde”
- “Malidadi”
- “Kalaala”
- “Akambe”
Recent albums include Maama (2022), Munda Eri (2020), and Omanja (2025).
Awards and Recognitions
Maureen has received numerous awards, such as:
- HiPipo Music Awards for Best Band Song (“Nkuze,” 2015; “Kisaaganda,” 2019)
- Best Social Message for “Akambe” (2019)
- Video of the Year for “Munda Eri” (2020)
- Other accolades from The Dive Awards, All Star Music Awards, and more.
