After a seven-year pause, the Kampala City Festival made a colourful comeback toady on Sunday, 12th October, 2025, transforming Uganda’s capital into a dazzling celebration of culture, creativity, and Innovation.
Organized by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), the festival drew thousands of revelers who filled the streets with music, dance, and art.
The day began with a lively parade led by KCCA Executive Director Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki, starting from Buganda Road and ending up at Kololo Independence Grounds.
The event was graced by Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja as the guest of honour, alongside local leaders, entrepreneurs, and performers who showcased Kampala’s vibrant spirit.
Kiira Motors Corporation served as the official transport partner, while several local businesses exhibited innovations, crafts, and street market products that highlighted urban entrepreneurship.
Speaking during the celebrations, Hajjat Buzeki described the festival’s return as a symbol of Kampala’s resilience and rebirth.
“The return of the Kampala City Festival after seven years is a celebration of our resilience and creativity as a city. This year, we are emphasizing innovation and sustainability showing that Kampala is not just Uganda’s capital, but the heartbeat of progress and cultural pride,” the KCCA Executive Director said.
Hajjat Buzeki also revealed that the festival aims to unite residents, empower small businesses, and promote Kampala as a tourism and investment hub.
“Our goal is to bring people together, showcase local talent, innovation, and enterprise in one shared space of joy,” she added.
Prime Minister Nabbanja praised KCCA for reviving the festival and reaffirmed government’s commitment to supporting cultural and economic initiatives that uplift communities.
“Kampala City belongs to all of us, and this festival reminds us of the unity, diversity, and vibrancy that define Uganda,” Nabbanja said.
“As we celebrate culture and innovation, let us also embrace sustainability to ensure our city grows in a clean, safe, and inclusive way,” she added.
This year’s theme “Creativity, Innovation, and Sustainability” was showcased throughout the festivities, from lively dance performances and art showcases to food courts serving Kampala’s signature street delicacies such as rolex and muchomo.
Family-friendly zones, health camps, and cultural exhibitions added to the excitement, while police maintained tight security across all venues.
As night fell, fireworks lit up the Kololo sky, marking the end of a day that many described as a vibrant and emotional comeback for a festival that truly embodies the spirit, pride, and diversity of Kampala City.
