The event, themed “Celebrating ideas that work,” recognised outstanding performers in the marketing industry across 12 categories, including sustainability, communications, branding, advertising, digital, and public relations.

John Paul Okwi, the jury president, said this year’s winners were chosen based on their alignment with strategy, execution, and return on investment. He emphasised that the jury looked for campaigns that made good use of resources and had a powerful impact on target audiences and businesses.

“Marketing is where creativity meets strategy, and tonight, we are here to cast a spotlight on those who have done a job well done,” Okwi said. “Celebrating marketers isn’t just about acknowledging a job well done; it’s also about recognising the pivotal role they play in pushing every component of a corporate engine.”

The atmosphere was electric, with guests enjoying tasty Johnnie Walker cocktails and the soulful rhythms of Joseph Sax’s saxophone.

Christine Kyokunda, the Johnnie Walker Brand Manager, was thrilled with the brand’s win for Best Use of Partnership Marketing. She said it was a clear indication that consumers not only enjoyed the whisky but also voted overwhelmingly for it.

“We are thrilled to win again this year,” she said. “This is a revelation that our consumers do not just stop at enjoying the drink of big flavour, they also take time off to vote for us. Thank you, our dear consumers, we are forever grateful,”

Kyokunda also spoke about the brand’s decision to partner with Evolve Africa, the UMEAS organizers.

“Our decision to sponsor the UMEAs is symbolic,” she said. “It’s a reminder to everyone that Johnnie Walker is always at the forefront of celebrating all wins and milestones. As marketers gather here tonight to celebrate the diverse and dynamic landscape of the profession, Johnnie Walker is at the centre of the celebrations. I congratulate all the winners tonight.”

First-time sponsors I&M Bank Uganda also emphasized the importance of celebrating individuals who are redefining the game.

“We are thrilled to be a part of this year’s UMEAs,” said Racheal Kulanyi, the Communications and Outreach Programs Officer at I&M Bank Uganda. “It is without a doubt that marketers are the architects of brand identities. We believe in supporting individuals who are game-changers, and the awards provide the perfect platform for this celebration. We are proud to be associated with an event that values and honours the game-changing spirit of the marketing industry.”

The event was hosted by the dynamic duo of NTV’s Sandra Twimoburyo and Radiocity’s Faith Murungi, who kept the energy high throughout the gala.

The UMEAs are a vital platform for recognizing and celebrating the exceptional work of marketers in Uganda. This year’s event was a resounding success, and it is clear that the future of marketing in Uganda is bright.

The 2023 UMEAs winners are;

1. Advertising Campaign of The Year-Whiskey Desire by Johnnie Walker
2. Best Use of Partnership Marketing-Hospital Sente by Airtel Mobile Commerce
3. Best Use of Digital Marketing -Leave Eat to KFC by KFC Uganda
4. PR Campaign of The Year-KCB-Giz Twekozese Programme by KCB Bank Uganda
5. Best Innovation-Hospital Sente by Airtel Mobile Commerce
6. Best use of Experiential Marketing -Smirnoff Fiestas
7. Best Not-for-Profit/Social Good Campaign-Rotary Cancer Run 2023
8. Best ESG Campaign-Growing Together Campaign by Treescape Planet Organization
9. Rising Agency of The Year-Zeus the Agency
10. Agency of The Year-Metropolitan Republic
11. Marketing Campaign of The Year-Smirnoff Fiestas
12. UMEAS Marketing Pioneer Award-Mr. Baker Magunda