Festival in Full Swing: Kampala City Festival Returns to Kololo
Kololo, Kampala — Under a bright morning sky and eager cheers, the Kampala City Festival has officially kicked off today at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, marking a grand return to the much-loved civic celebration after logistical delays and postponements. The festival, organized by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), carries the theme “Culture, Innovation & Sustainability” and aims to unite Kampala’s residents in a spirited celebration of heritage, progress, and community.
From Postponement to Celebration
Originally scheduled for October 5, the festival was rescheduled to October 12 after consultations with stakeholders and security agencies, allowing the city adequate time to host official Independence Day ceremonies first. KCCA Executive Director Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki emphasized that the shift ensures better preparation and greater public participation.
In the days leading up to the festival, officials and staff worked intensely—erecting tents, building stages, organizing vendor zones, and mapping out children’s play areas, religious zones, and cultural displays. State Minister for Kampala, Hon. Kabuye Kyofatogabye, and Buzeki themselves toured the grounds, expressing satisfaction with progress and urging citizens to join in the festivities.
Green Transport: Electric Buses Deployed
In a bid to reduce traffic and carbon emissions, Kiira Motors Corporation has deployed four electric buses to ferry festival-goers free of charge. The buses will move along key routes—from City Square to Mulago, Kamwokya, Ntinda, and beyond—with two buses in each direction maintaining continuous services. KCCA praised the move as aligning with the festival’s sustainability goals and broader urban mobility vision.
Security & Access Control
Security is tight but measured. Kampala Metropolitan Police, in collaboration with security agencies, have deployed access control points, parking plans, and traffic diversions to ensure smooth movement. Motorists are being redirected via Lugogo bypass, and cut-off points are active at Prince Charles Road, Katikati, and Upper Elgon Terrace. VIP parking is restricted to vehicles with official stickers, with alternate parking offered at nearby schools. Parents and guardians are being cautioned to monitor children closely to avoid separations.
What’s On Today: Highlights & Program
Religious Moments: The festival accommodates both Christian and Muslim prayer sessions. Christians and Catholics will hold prayers at Africana Hotel gates, while Muslims convene in a dedicated halal section at Kololo.
Opening Procession: A city-wide procession commenced from Buganda Road, passing through Kyagwe to Kololo grounds — a symbolic march of unity and festivity.
Main Stage & Performances: The festival lineup features both secular and gospel acts. On the secular front, Ava Peace is expected to perform hits such as London, Tabbu, and Wanula. Gospel and Christian audiences will be treated to performances by Pastor Wilson Bugembe, Minister Rachel Kay, and the Watoto Children’s Choir.
Cultural & Innovation Exhibits: Expect cultural showcases, art displays, innovation hubs, green stalls, and vendor markets. One unique touch: children attending will receive fruit tree seedlings (e.g. avocado, mango, jackfruit) to emphasize environmental stewardship.
Civic Engagement Zones: KCCA has set up stations to interact with citizens on ongoing city initiatives—renewing business licenses, building permits, revenue collection, and public service programs.
Guest of Honour & Dignitaries: Uganda’s Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, is expected to grace the event. Other special guests include diplomats invited to engage in the festival’s halal and cultural village segments.
Early Impressions & Participant Voices
As of midday, thousands have begun streaming into the festival grounds in family groups, couples, and youthful ensembles. Vendors report brisk business in food, crafts, clothing, and local arts. A few attendees expressed delight:
“It’s heartening to see Kampala bring its people together again — music, culture, faith, and fellowship all in one place,” said a group from Makindye.
“Getting on a free electric bus made things easy. I came relaxed, and I’m excited to see what the day offers,” said another reveler from Ntinda.
Challenges & Notes
Some residents expressed concerns over traffic congestion en route to Kololo, especially along key feeder roads.
Mobile network capacity is being tested as thousands share live videos, selfies, and updates.
Rain clouds are forming on the horizon — organisers remain on alert, with contingency plans for shelter and sound protection.
Looking Ahead: Legacy & Expectations
KCCA officials affirm that this edition will mark the revival of the Kampala City Festival as an annual event, with expansions in duration and scale in future years. The hope is that beyond entertainment, the festival will galvanize civic pride, environmental consciousness, and creative entrepreneurship in Kampala.
As the sun sets, Kololo will come alive with lights, rhythms, laughter, and unity. Today is more than festivity — it is a statement: Kampala is vibrant, connected, and moving forward together.
By The Urban Gazette Writter
The Urban Gazette
