Janzi Band is facing a major change in its line-up after several long-serving members announced their departure from the group, bringing an end to years of collaboration with the ensemble.
Among those who have publicly confirmed their exit are Kiwanuka Hakim, popularly known as Jajja Bam, and Chikuru Bonah, who separately announced that they were no longer working with the band.
In his statement, Jajja Bam described the decision as the beginning of a new chapter after what he called an incredible journey with Janzi Band.
“After an incredible journey with Janzi Band, I have decided to part ways and embark on a new chapter,” he said, while thanking his fans and those who had supported him, particularly “Mr Ssewa”, for standing by him since 2014.
Chikuru Bonah also announced his departure, telling fans that after careful consideration, he and Janzi Band had mutually decided to part ways.
“I am no longer working with Janzi Band. After careful consideration, we have mutually decided to part ways and continue on separate paths,” Bonah said.
He expressed gratitude for the time, experiences and memories shared with the band and wished the group success in the future.
The departures have attracted attention from fans of the Ugandan ensemble, particularly because the musicians have been part of the band’s journey for several years.
Several members of Janzi Band have called it quits after years with the group, announcing that they are parting ways and will reveal their next moves soon.
Janzi Band founder Ssewa Ssewa is expected to address the changes on Monday.#SqoopUpdates pic.twitter.com/QExwY4WXDZ— sQoop (@sQoopUG) August 22, 2026
However, Janzi Band management has now sought to reassure its fans that the changes will not affect the group’s future.
In a public notice, the band officially acknowledged the departures of Jajja Bam and Chikuru Bonah, while wishing both musicians well in their individual careers.
“This band has never been a stranger to change. Over the years, we have seen members grow, evolve, and choose different paths, and each time, we have emerged stronger. This moment is no different,” management said.
The band revealed that replacements have already been put in place, suggesting that the transition had been anticipated and preparations were already underway.
“We are proud to confirm that experienced and capable replacements are already in place. Our standard of quality and performance will not only be maintained but elevated as we step into this new chapter,” the statement added.
Management has also asked fans to extend the same warmth and support they have shown the outgoing members to the new musicians joining the ensemble.
The latest departures come as Janzi Band prepares to enter a new phase under founder and band leader Ssewa Ssewa, who is expected to address the recent changes during a live-streamed public address on Monday, August 24.
According to a notice issued ahead of the address, Ssewa Ssewa will explain the recent line-up changes, introduce the new members and outline the band’s plans for the future.
His address is expected to provide more context on the departures and give fans their first official look at the new Janzi Band line-up.
For the departing musicians, the split appears to mark the beginning of new individual journeys, while for Janzi Band, it is being presented as another chapter in the evolution of an ensemble that has experienced several changes in its membership over the years.
Despite the exits, management insists the band’s core purpose remains unchanged.
“The music continues. The mission continues,” the statement concluded.
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