KAMPALA, Uganda | Africa’s largest music festival, the Uganda Waragi Nyege Nyege festival, is set to take place from November 14 to 17, featuring a new program called "Nyege in the City." This initiative aims to highlight Jinja City’s attractions and offer festival-goers a comprehensive Ugandan experience.
Now in its ninth edition, the festival will include the newly curated daytime program that offers a variety of activities throughout Jinja City. These activities will encompass guided tours, fine dining, water-based adventures on the Nile, and cultural experiences, culminating in vibrant evening celebrations at the main festival grounds. To ensure safety, the festival grounds will be closed from 8 AM to 3 PM for security sweeps.
Festival organizers emphasized their partnership with Jinja Authority to maximize socio-economic benefits for local service providers. Francis Nyende, Marketing Manager at Uganda Breweries, remarked, “We dedicate this edition to unpacking the true Ugandan Spirit, showcasing our rich heritage, music, culture, food, and fashion.”
The evening festivities will take place at the Jinja Golf Course, which has been landscaped for an intimate and electrifying atmosphere. The festival will feature a variety of stages, including the highly anticipated Dark Star Stage for experimental artists, the Spirit of Uganda Stage celebrating multiculturalism, and the Reggae stage headlined by Jamaican artist Cali P.
Derek Debru, CEO of the Uganda Waragi Nyege Nyege, highlighted the festival's role in promoting the creative sector and uniting people through culture. The lineup will feature 10 cultural dance troupes, DJs, and artists from around the globe, showcasing both local and international talent.
Nyege Nyege continues to collaborate with Talent Africa Group for the "Nyege in the City" experience. CEO Aly Alibhai expressed commitment to creating safe and engaging experiences that highlight the beauty of Jinja.
This year’s festival lineup includes performances from various artists, such as Teso star Patrick Atude, the Batwa Dance Group, and DJs from both Africa and beyond, promising an unforgettable celebration of music and culture.