lifestyle 1 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Gilbey’s Hangouts Rekindles Kampala’s Authentic Kafunda Connections Amid Digital Distractions
Gilbey’s Hangouts is reviving Uganda’s traditional kafunda culture of genuine conversations and presence, countering the dominance of smartphones and social media. The initiative launched at Old Tymerz in Ntinda, fostering real interactions without the need for online validation. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/lifestyle/gilbey-s-hangouts-revives-kampala-s-lost-art-of-real-connection-in-a-scroll-obsessed-age-5443908
In a time dominated by endless scrolling and digital distractions, Gilbey’s Hangouts is bringing back the essence of traditional Ugandan kafundas. These were spots where people gathered after work to share stories, debate issues, and bond over malwa without interruptions from phones or social media.
Before smartphones reshaped social life, connections felt more organic and warm. Groups met in village compounds or trading centers for unfiltered talks, building strong communities focused on being present rather than performing for likes.
Kampala has seen echoes of this in events like Blankets and Wine or Roast and Rhyme, which mix music and relaxed mingling. Yet, urban pressures and online habits have led to less face-to-face engagement, leaving many feeling isolated even in crowds.
As part of Gilbey’s Gin ‘Made for Real Moments’ campaign, Gilbey’s Hangouts launched last Friday at Old Tymerz in Ntinda. The venue became a cozy hub for music and natural conversations, hosted by media personality Ronnie McVex.
Guests delved into topics like relationships, careers, and personal ambitions, laughing and listening freely. Raymond Karama, Gilbey’s brand manager, emphasized the value of human presence over screen-mediated interactions.
This trend is spreading across Kampala’s venues, promising to combat loneliness and strengthen community ties by prioritizing lived moments over posted ones.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)