Tonny Kateregga and Mackline Tesi. Photo | Courtesy
In December 2016, businessman Tonny Katelegga met accountant Mackline Tesi in what seemed as an ordinary business meeting.
Mackline had accompanied her aunt to Kateregga’s workplace, unaware that this simple visit would mark the beginning of a beautiful love story. Kateregga, captivated by her beauty, knew immediately that she was special. He discreetly asked her aunt for Mackline’s contact.
“She was stunning, even with her simple, natural hair. I could tell right away that she was the kind of woman I wanted in my life,” Kateregga recalls fondly.
The very next day, he called her, introduced himself and explained how he got her number. Mackline was drawn to his confidence and kindness.
“The way he spoke was so gentle and free, it made me feel comfortable. That is why I agreed to meet him,” she says.
First date
Their first date was simple but meaningful. They shared a plate of spaghetti at a small restaurant in Kampala. Looking back, Kateregga laughs at the memory, admitting the meal was not great, but the company made it unforgettable.
At first, Mackline played hard to get, as many young women do, but Kateregga’s persistence and unwavering kindness slowly won her over. Though he did not have much, he always found ways to show he cared.
“There is something about a man who does not have much but still tries,” Mackline shares. “He would bring me a rolex (chapatti and eggs) at work, check on me with endless calls, and sometimes, after work, we would walk hand in hand from Kampala City Centre to Kibuye Park without realising we were saving money.”
In 2018, wanting her to experience independence, Kateregga rented Mackline a small home in Entebbe. Having grown up in a strict household in Ndejje, Luweero District, she welcomed the taste of freedom. However, after three months, the couple decided to move in together, further solidifying their commitment.
Winning the big wedding
For years, Mackline dreamed of a grand wedding, and in 2024, that dream became reality. While driving back from Masaka City one day, Kateregga heard an advert for Capital FM’s ‘Big Wedding’ contest. Knowing how much it meant to Mackline, he suggested they try their luck.
Submitting their entry just minutes before the deadline, they poured their hearts into a heartfelt letter and video. To their surprise, their love story resonated with many voters, securing them a spot among the top 10 couples.
“We did not think we would win,” Tonny admits. “Then one day, I saw our story featured on social media. I screamed and immediately called Mackline; it was happening. Listeners had voted, and we were getting the wedding of our dreams.”
After eight years together, two children, a Kukyala in 2021, and an introduction ceremony in 2023, all that remained was the final step: walking down the aisle.
Wedding to remember
With just three weeks to prepare, the couple faced a major hurdle; Kateregga’s dream of a Catholic church wedding was not possible due to the requirement of a three-month marriage counselling session. Instead, they opted for a civil wedding at the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) offices, followed by a blessing at St Joseph’s Centenary Church in Ndeeba, Kampala and a breathtaking reception at Munyonyo Speke Resort Hotel.
“I still cannot believe it happened,” Mackline says. “When we were planning our wedding before, we had a long to-do list. On that day, everything we ever dreamed of came to life, complete with a wedding planner.”
From morning preparations, gorgeous hair by Zziwa, stunning makeup, and elegant décor to an evening reception graced by musician Pallaso, every detail was close to perfect.
Despite a sleepless night before the big day, the couple cherished every moment. For Kateregga, the highlight was the overwhelming joy he felt after signing the marriage certificate and embracing his wife tightly.
And then came an unforgettable moment. As Mackline came back from her second outfit change, Kateregga sang his vows to her in front of all their guests.
“I had never seen him express his love like that,” she shares. “It was deeply touching.”
Building a future together
Now parents to two young boys, aged two years and eight months, Kateregga and Mackline are navigating marriage and parenthood with love, faith, and teamwork.
“God is at the centre of everything we do,” Mackline emphasises.
Kateregga appreciates Mackline’s calm and peaceful nature, while she admires his generosity and unwavering dedication to their family.
Future plans
“He is a loving, playful, and providing parent; not just to our children, but to everyone around him,” she says warmly.
Like true partners, they encourage each other to pursue personal goals. With Kateregga’s support, Mackline plans to return to school, and he is more than willing to pay her tuition. Together, they are also picking up new hobbies such as reading and swimming.
Their biggest dream? Building their own home, raising their children with strong values, and travelling the world.
As advice to other couples, Kateregga shares: “Stick together, work as a team, and include prayer in whatever you do.
