Top Story: Kampala Festival Returns as KCCA Showcases Urban Transformation
Kampala, Uganda – After a multi-year hiatus, the much-anticipated Kampala City Festival made a grand return over the weekend, drawing thousands of revelers into the heart of the capital for a vibrant celebration of culture, innovation, and urban renewal.
Organized by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), this year’s edition was more than just a street party — it served as a bold platform for the city authority to showcase its ambitious urban transformation agenda. From improved road networks and cleaner streets to smart city initiatives, the festival provided a colorful backdrop for KCCA to highlight the progress Kampala has made in recent years.
Held under the theme “My City, My Responsibility”, the festival featured parades, live performances, cultural exhibitions, tech showcases, and food fairs. Local artists, entrepreneurs, and community groups took center stage, celebrating the city’s diversity and resilience.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, KCCA Executive Director Dorothy Kisaka emphasized the importance of inclusive development. “The Kampala Festival is not just a celebration — it’s a symbol of our collective effort to build a livable, smart, and sustainable city. We are here to show what progress looks like and to rally citizens to be active partners in transformation,” she said.
Key highlights included a digital innovation corner, green transport exhibitions, and showcases of newly upgraded public spaces like markets and health centers. The festival also doubled as a platform to promote environmental awareness, with waste management campaigns and eco-friendly zones featured prominently.
Residents and visitors alike praised the event’s organization and renewed energy. “It feels like the Kampala we’ve all been waiting for,” said one festivalgoer. “There’s a sense of pride and possibility in the air.”
With the festival now back on the city’s annual calendar, KCCA aims to make it a signature event for civic engagement, investment promotion, and cultural celebration.
