In the vibrant, rhythm-driven heart of Uganda’s music scene, few names resonate as profoundly as Nessim Pan Production.
In the vibrant, rhythm-driven heart of Uganda’s music scene, few names resonate as profoundly as Nessim Pan Production. Born Mukuza Nessim, He grew up in Kampala, a city pulsating with the sounds of East African fusion. Formal education ended for him after Primary Leaving Examinations at Mulago Community Primary School, but his true schooling came in the studios, mentored by the renowned producer Tony Houls Bikumbi at Fire Recordz a label tied to Ugandan music icon Bobi Wine.
What began as a youthful fascination with beats evolved into a career that would redefine production standards, earning him the moniker “Nessim Pan Production” and a tagline that has become synonymous with chart-topping anthems: “Nessim Pan Production.”
Nessim’s journey wasn’t paved with privilege, it was forged in hustle. Dropping out of formal schooling due to financial constraints, he immersed himself in music, starting with dance groups before transitioning to production. By his early teens, he was apprenticing under Tony Houls, absorbing the intricacies of sound engineering.
A pivotal connection through Nubian Li introduced him to Feffe Bussi, leading to their collaboration on a Luganda remix of Vybz Kartel’s “Summertime.”
This marked his entry into the big leagues. He later joined Badi Muzik Production under Bashir Lukyamuzi (Producer Badi), where extensive studio time honed his skills. By 2015, Nessim was already behind hits for rising stars like A Pass, solidifying his reputation as a prodigy who blended local Luganda flair with global dancehall and Afrobeats influences.
Today, owning Shot Gun Studios in Makindye, he commands one of the highest fees in the industry, a testament to his mastery
Nessim’s impact on the Ugandan music industry transcends mere beats; he is the architect of its modern soundscape. Emerging in an era when Ugandan production was often overshadowed by Nigerian and South African imports, Nessim championed a distinctly East African vibe, infusing traditional rhythms like Kadongo Kamu with trap, dancehall, and Afropop elements.
His work has launched careers, from newcomers like A Pass and B2C to established acts like Eddy Kenzo, Spice Diana, and so many others proving that production isn’t just technical, it’s storytelling.
True to his word, he pushed boundaries, collaborating with international heavyweights like Patoranking, Harmonize, Koshens, The Ben, and Cherry Na Nina. This global lens elevated Ugandan music’s export potential, contributing to hits that crossed borders and dominated East African airwaves
Nessim’s versatility shines in his dual role as producer and songwriter. Tracks like Cindy’s “Still Standing” and Chosen Becky’s “Bankuza” showcase his lyrical depth, while his engineering precision has made him the go-to for polished, radio-ready sounds. This trendsetting ethos has inspired a new generation, with peers like Daddy Andre and Artin Pro often nominating him in awards.
Beyond the studio, Nessim mentors young talents, advocating for patience amid pressure.
His vision? To become Africa’s top producer and tutor the next wave. In an industry rife with copycats, Nessim’s originality has made him a pillar of authenticity, fostering collaborations that unite Uganda’s diverse genres from ragga to R&B.
Over nearly a decade, Nessim’s discography reads like a greatest-hits album of Ugandan pop culture. With songs like Apass’ Tuli Kubigere, Jose Chameleone’s Kiggwa Leero, Chozen Becky’s Bankuza, Spice Diana’s Jangu ondabe and so many more, these aren’t just songs; they’re cultural touchstones that have soundtracked weddings, protests, and parties, generating billions in streams and sales.
Nessim Pan Production isn’t just a producer he’s the heartbeat of Ugandan music. In a field where trends fade fast, his consistency has birthed eras. He’s mentored under legends, collaborated with giants, and built an empire from Makindye’s studios, all while staying true to innovation over imitation. Uganda’s airwaves owe him a debt.
It’s very clear Nessim isn’t chasing legacy, he’s building it. Here’s to the man who turned raw talent into rhythmic gold.
Uganda salutes you, Nessim. The beat goes on, and so does your reign.
Enock Mugabi aka iWitness is a Journalist, Seasoned Writer and Music Analyst with a passion for sports.
Connect with him on social media using the links below in bio.
