Rasta Rob M.C., a radio host, recalled the influence of Peter Sematimba in his career. Sematimba was instrumental in Rasta Rob’s career development, and this article explores their professional association.
Rasta Rob, who was one of Uganda’s early radio hosts, began his career at Sanyu FM in 1993. Before joining radio, he worked as a DJ in clubs. However, his career took a turn when Peter Sematimba, the former manager of CBS FM, offered him a job in 1996. CBS FM is owned by the Buganda Kingdom.
Peter Sematimba, who had previous experience at Capital FM and owned the Dungeon music studio, played a significant role at CBS FM. His company, Semat Production, was responsible for overseeing programming, production, marketing, and news at the station. Sematimba also co-hosted a morning show on the radio.
During his time at CBS FM, Rasta Rob hosted a show called “Super Show” at 7 pm, which contributed to his rise in popularity. He left CBS FM in 1999 when DJ Will, who had initially taught him DJing in Kampala, invited him to play at his club in London.
In 2000, Peter Sematimba left CBS FM to establish Super FM, where Rasta Rob would later work upon his return to Uganda in 2008. However, Rasta Rob’s tenure at Super FM ended in 2016 due to a disagreement with management, which he publicly announced during a live broadcast.
During his time at CBS FM, Rasta Rob, whose real name is Robert Ogwal, released his first single, “Kiri Kiri Mabero,” in collaboration with Moses Kays. This single was recorded at Sematimba’s Dungeon Studio without any charge.
Reflecting on his career, Rasta Rob expressed, “He had a huge influence on my life,” referring to Peter Sematimba.
Rasta Rob, who worked as both a DJ and radio host, had his upbringing in Nakasero and Kololo in Kampala. He attended King’s College Budo and Kololo High School. After relocating to the U.K., he pursued studies in broadcast journalism at De Montfort University.
