KAMPALA, Oct 12 — Kampala’s iconic City Festival returned in spectacular fashion as Dr. Hamis Kiggundu, entrepreneur and philanthropist, injected new life into Uganda’s largest urban celebration through the Ham Group of Companies.
Weeks before the event, Dr. Kiggundu announced a UGX 200 million sponsorship, positioning Ham Group as the festival’s lead private partner. The support rekindled enthusiasm for an occasion long associated with the city’s resilience and optimism.
By mid-morning, central Kampala pulsed with color and sound as thousands of Ham Group employees joined the parade along Buganda Road and Kololo. Ten trucks emblazoned with the company’s diverse subsidiaries rolled through the streets, blending music, dance, and innovation into a visual display of unity and enterprise.
“This is more than sponsorship—it’s a show of leadership,” said one attendee. “When Ham Group steps forward, the city shines brighter.”
The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) orchestrated the 2025 edition under the theme “Culture, Innovation, and Sustainability.” Executive Director Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki and State Minister for Kampala Hon. Kabuye Kyofatogabye praised the organizers for reviving a beloved tradition. “This festival captures the creative heartbeat of Kampala,” Buzeki noted during a venue tour on Friday.
As the day unfolded, the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds transformed into a carnival of sound and celebration. From local cuisines and handmade crafts to children’s games and cultural performances, the event mirrored the diversity that defines Kampala’s character.
Evening performances by Ava Peace, Pastor Wilson Bugembe, Minister Rachael Kay, and the Watoto Children’s Choir captivated thousands under a glowing sunset. Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, attending as Guest of Honour, hailed the festival as “a testament to what unity and partnership can achieve.”
Across social platforms, the festival trended under #HamAtKCF2025, fueled by photos and videos from Ham Group’s official pages. One caption read: “Ham Group of Companies fully represented at the Kampala City Festival 2025 — For God and My Country.”
In a post-event statement, Dr. Kiggundu reflected on the broader purpose of his involvement. “Every great city thrives when private innovation meets public vision,” he said. “Our role in the festival underscores a shared duty to build Kampala’s future.”
As fireworks illuminated the skyline, the 2025 Kampala City Festival closed not just as a concert, but as a symbol of national unity and renewed civic spirit. Ham Group’s commitment demonstrated how corporate leadership can uplift public celebration—turning joy into purpose and progress.
Kampala rejoiced. Ham Group inspired. And Dr. Hamis Kiggundu once again proved that growth, when shared, lights up a nation.
