BY F MALE: The highly anticipated 9th edition of the renowned Nyege Nyege festival is set to take place from November 14th-17th at its new location, the Source of the Nile in Njeru. This move from its previous venue in Jinja is aimed at enhancing the festival experience by reducing the distances revellers need to walk between stages.
Speaking at the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) at Speak Resort Munyonyo, festival co-founder Derek Debru explained that the change of venue addresses feedback from past editions, where the expansive layout required extensive walking. “This time, we have designed the festival site to keep all activities close together, ensuring that attendees can enjoy everything without having to move long distances,” Debru stated.
This year’s festival promises a rich array of activities, including an aqua park, camping, and various water-based attractions, all concentrated in one area. This setup aims to create a more immersive and enjoyable experience for the attendees.
Debru also highlighted the festival’s commitment to inclusivity and cultural representation, noting Uganda’s significant role in hosting refugees from neighbouring countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, and others. “The high numbers of refugees in Uganda have brought many amazing artists who are in exile.
We want to make sure that Nyege Nyege also gives them a chance to showcase their art,” he said. The festival will feature a diverse lineup, including Sudanese, Congolese, Eritrean, and Burundian artists, emphasizing that being a refugee should not prevent one from participating in society and sharing their culture.
Claire Mugabi, Head of Marketing at the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), announced a partnership with Nyege Nyege to highlight Uganda’s rich cultural diversity. “Nyege Nyege offers a unique platform to showcase our cultural heritage to the world,” Mugabi said. She emphasized that the event supports Uganda’s positioning as a premier cultural destination, with its 53 tribes and varied traditions.
This year’s edition, powered by Talent Africa, is expected to attract over 50,000 attendees, contributing more than USD 10 million to Uganda’s economy. Running under the theme “Afrogalactic Carnival,” the festival will blend music with ancestral traditions, creating a vibrant celebration of Africa’s cultural and artistic heritage.
As Nyege Nyege continues to grow, its relocation to Njeru marks a significant step towards making the festival more accessible and enjoyable, while also promoting Uganda’s cultural richness on a global stage. Picture picked from the Internet