By By Business Express Writer
Kampala is set to burst back into life with the highly anticipated return of the Kampala City Festival, one of the capital’s signature cultural and economic celebrations.
After years of dormancy, the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has officially relaunched the festival under a new, reimagined edition—promising an event that is “bigger, better, and bolder.”
Over the years, the Kampala City Festival has evolved into more than just an entertainment spectacle. It has become a showcase of culture, innovation, creativity, and community pride, while also playing a pivotal role in promoting tourism, strengthening unity, and stimulating economic growth. Its revival signals a renewed era for Kampala as a dynamic and forward-looking capital.
Driving Economic Growth and SME Opportunities
The festival’s return is expected to inject billions of shillings into the economy, with businesses across hospitality, transport, retail, and entertainment projected to thrive. Hotels, restaurants, bars, and event planners anticipate a surge in activity, while vendors and creatives will gain new markets and visibility.
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs), especially those in the informal sector, will be among the biggest beneficiaries, leveraging the festival’s vendor stalls and showcases to sell products, network, and engage with thousands of potential customers.
A Boost for Tourism and Urban Branding
For Kampala’s tourism industry, the festival offers a timely stage to reintroduce the city as a modern, vibrant, and culturally rich destination. From cultural parades to music, food, and art, the 2025 edition will highlight Kampala’s diversity and creativity at a time when Uganda’s tourism sector is regaining global momentum.
Celebrating Progress and Unity
KCCA Executive Director, Sharifah Buzeki, emphasized that the festival is more than just an entertainment event:
“This will be a celebration of our culture, innovation, creativity, and community spirit. It’s not just about fun—it’s about coming together as a city, recognizing how far we’ve come, and renewing our collective commitment to building a cleaner and livable Kampala.”
She also extended appreciation to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the Minister for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs Hajjat Minsa Kabanda, State Minister Hon. Kabuye Kyofatogabye, Head of Public Service Ms. Lucy Nakyobe, the City Political Leadership, and the dedicated KCCA staff for their unwavering support.
Funding Urban Development
Beyond the festivities, KCCA projects significant revenues from sponsorships, partnerships, and vendor participation. These funds will be reinvested into urban development initiatives, including sanitation, infrastructure upgrades, youth empowerment, and public service improvements.
A Renewed Chapter for Kampala
As the official launch date of August 6 approaches, anticipation is building across the capital. The Kampala City Festival’s comeback represents not only a celebration of culture and entertainment but also a commitment to shaping Kampala into a cleaner, smarter, and more inclusive city for all.
