The Pearl of Africa Music Awards came off last Saturday at the Lugogo Cricket Oval. Ronald Mayinja of the Eagles production was the night's big winner, winning the artiste of the year award, as well as best band single, song of the year and album of the year. He beat out MTV award nominee Jose Chameleone and the incumbent PAM best artiste, Bobi Wine.

Sophia Nantogo also won Best female artiste award. Bebe Cool didn't disappoint, continuing his good run from the Channel O awards, picking up the Best Male Artiste.

Ringo Madlingozi performed four songs including Sondela. The big award winner, Ronald Mayinja also performed as well as Sophie Nantongo. Maybe it was a sign they were going to get those awards. Bobi Wine and Nubian Lee also performed Abalungi Balumya while the former sent the crowd crazy with his Kiwani hit. Other performers were Bebe Cool, Annet Nandujja, Kamungolo, Kalikwan, Sweet Kid and Toolman.

Full list of winners below

Pop competitions have been the craze lately over the world after the success of American idol. Various countries have established pop contests that are supposed to groom more entertainers and Africa has not been left behind. Many corporate entities have joined the bandwagon and musicians have chipped in as judges as well. Tusker, Kenya's favourite beer is supporting East Africa's Project Fame. Blu3 is a popular rhythm and blues group that has benefitted from this, particularly Uganda's Coca cola real stars competition which has also been expanded to cover all of East Africa.