Rehema Namakula, widely known as Rema Namakula or simply Rema, is one of Uganda’s most prominent female musicians. Born on April 24, 1991, she has made a significant mark in the Ugandan music scene with her powerful voice and diverse style that blends R&B, soul, and gospel influences. Her unique sound, combining elements of Ugandan pop, dancehall, and R&B, has earned her a loyal fanbase and numerous awards across East Africa.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Rehema Namakula |
| Date of Birth | April 24, 1991 |
| Place of Birth | Lubaga Hospital, Kampala, Uganda |
| Nationality | Ugandan |
| Partner | Dr. Hamza Ssebunya (since 2019) |
| Children | 2 (Aamaal Musuuza with Eddy Kenzo, Aaliyah Ssebunya with Dr. Hamza) |
| Occupations | Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer |
| Labels | Formerly Gagamel International, now Independent |
| Net Worth | Estimated between $51,800 and $731,200 |
Early Life and Education
Rema was born at Lubaga Hospital in Kampala, Uganda, on April 24, 1991, to the late Hamida Nabbosa and Mukiibi Ssemakula. She grew up in Masaka District after losing her parents and is the youngest child in her family.
From a young age, she showed a strong passion for music, actively participating in school choirs throughout her primary and secondary education.
She attended Kitante Primary School, where her musical talents were first nurtured, and later completed her O-Level and A-Level studies at Saint Balikudembe Senior Secondary School.
After secondary school, she enrolled at Kyambogo University but had to pause her studies to focus on her music career, with plans to resume in the future.
Career
Rema’s music career started during her Senior 6 vacation when she began singing karaoke.
Her talent caught the eye of renowned Ugandan artist Halima Namakula, who mentored her and helped her develop her skills at No End Studios, where Rema worked as a backup vocalist for several years.
She later joined Bebe Cool’s Gagamel International as a backup singer, gaining valuable experience and collaborating on tracks such as “Cease and Seekle” and “Missing You.” However, in 2013, after planning a solo album without Bebe Cool’s knowledge, she left the label to pursue a solo career.
Rema’s breakthrough came with the release of her hit single “Oli Wange” in 2013, written by Nince Henry. The song propelled her to stardom and established her as a leading solo artist in Uganda.
In 2016, she gained international recognition when she was selected to represent Uganda at Coke Studio Africa, performing alongside other top Ugandan artists and international stars like Nigeria’s 2Baba and American singer Trey Songz.
Personal Life
Rema’s personal life has attracted public interest, particularly her relationship with fellow musician Eddy Kenzo. The couple had a daughter, Aamaal Musuuza, born on December 26, 2014. They eventually separated in 2017.
In 2019, Rema began a relationship with Dr. Hamza Ssebunya, a medical doctor at Mulago Hospital. She introduced him to her family in a traditional ceremony in November 2019.
The couple welcomed their daughter, Aaliyah Ssebunya, on November 7, 2021, and held an Aqiqah ceremony in 2022 to dedicate their child.
Rema Namakula Net Worth
Rema Namakula’s estimated net worth ranges between $51,800 and $731,200. Her income comes from music sales, streaming, live shows, brand endorsements, and social media. Her YouTube channel alone generates monthly earnings estimated between $1,270 and $3,040.
Discography
Rema’s music catalog includes several albums and hit singles:
Albums:
- Deep in Love (2017)
- Clear EP (2019)
- Kukaliba (2021)
- NGONZE (2022)
- Tonyt (2023)
Popular Singles:
- Oli Wange (2013)
- Kukaliba
- Gutujja (feat. B2C)
- Sili Muyembe
- Tikula (2021)
- Banyabo (2021)
- Ceaze and Sekkle (with Bebe Cool)
- Missing You (with Bebe Cool)
- This Is Love (2020)
- Wandiisa Ki (2022)
- Ampisaawo (2023)
- Love Commissioner (feat. David Lutalo) (2024)
- Go Go Mama (feat. Dokta Brain) (2024)
Her music is known for its catchy melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and strong vocals.
Awards and Nominations
Rema has received multiple awards, especially at the HiPipo Music Awards:
- 2013: Won five awards including Best Female Artist, Best Breakthrough Artist, Best R&B Song (“Oli Wange”), Best HiPipo Charts Artist, and Best Reggae Song (“Missing You” with Bebe Cool).
- 2014: Won three awards including Best Female Artist of the Year, Best Female Dancehall Artist, and Best Female R&B Song (“Kukaliba”).
- 2020: Awarded Best Female Artist.
She has also been recognized for representing Uganda at Coke Studio Africa and for her collaborations with international artists.
