FESTIVAL HANGOVER? KAMPALA SAYS IT WAS WORTH IT

Kampala woke up on Monday with a smile and perhaps a little fatigue after Kololo Ceremonial Grounds exploded into color, music, and excitement on Sunday, October 12, for the long-awaited Kampala City Festival.

Organized by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) under the theme “Culture, Innovation, and Sustainability,” the festival returned after a seven-year hiatus, reclaiming its spot as Uganda’s biggest urban celebration and judging by the energy on the streets, it was worth the wait.

From ghetto youth and market vendors to school children and corporate executives, the crowds reflected Kampala’s vibrant diversity, all united in celebrating the heartbeat of the city.

The day kicked off with a lively street procession from Buganda Road to Kololo, led by Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, who officiated as Guest of Honour. 

She was joined by KCCA Executive Director Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki, who arrived in regal style in a vintage car, waving to cheering crowds. Their presence highlighted the leadership and vision behind reviving the festival as a platform to showcase Kampala’s culture and energy.

Traditional troupes, brass bands, and school performers turned the streets into a moving canvas of rhythm and dance. 

At Kololo, the grounds were divided into zones catering to every taste and age group. The Children’s Village was alive with laughter, games, and bouncing castles. The Cultural Village offered a feast for the senses with crafts, cuisine, and Ugandan traditions, while the Halal Village welcomed Muslim revelers.

Faith-based celebrations also had their place. At the Christian Stage at Hotel Africana, performances by Pastor Wilson Bugembe, Exodus, Gabi Ntate, Minister Rachael Kay, and the Watoto Children’s Choir lifted spirits, reminding everyone that the festival had something for all.

Music fans danced the day and night away. Ava Peace fired up the main stage with her hits London, Tabbu, and Wanula, joined by Vinka, Ykee Benda, Mudra Viral, Coco Finger, and Vyper Ranking, keeping Kololo alive with sound and movement.

The festival was open to all, free of charge, and became an economic boost for vendors selling crafts, street food, and fresh produce. Even a brief afternoon drizzle did little to dampen spirits; revelers embraced the rain, dancing and celebrating together.

Security and crowd management ran smoothly, thanks to KCCA’s careful planning in collaboration with national security agencies.

“This festival belongs to the people,” Hajjat Buzeki said. “It’s a reflection of our culture, creativity, and unity. Next year will be even bigger and better.”

Prime Minister Nabbanja lauded the NRM government for creating an enabling environment where Kampala can thrive as a modern, inclusive city. 

As fireworks lit up the night sky, thousands stood together, marking the close of a day that will linger in memory and perhaps leave a little festival hangover but one that everyone agreed was absolutely worth it.

The Kampala City Festival wasn’t just an event; it was a declaration. The city’s spirit of culture, creativity, and unity is alive, unstoppable, and ready to light up the city again next year.

By Geofrey Mutegeki Araali

Communication and Media Relations Officer