Uganda’s internationally acclaimed Nyege Nyege Festival is set to celebrate its 10th anniversary from November 20–23, 2025, at its new permanent home, Kalagala Falls in Jinja.
Festival co-founder Derek Debru described this year’s edition as the “mother of all festivals,” promising a mix of reflection and innovation under the theme Ekyigunda Ky’omuliro – The Gathering of the Flame.
For the first time, Nyege Nyege will go beyond music to highlight fashion, film, and African artistic dialogue.
The festival will host the African Electronic Music Conference, bringing together 15 music collectives from across Africa—including Nigeria, Ghana, Ethiopia, South Africa, Kenya, and Rwanda—to discuss the future of the genre.
A fashion program in partnership with Kwetu Kwanza will spotlight sustainable fashion projects.
Matatu Stage will curate a dedicated film program, showcasing short films from Uganda and across Africa.
Traditional Ugandan music will also feature alongside modern sounds to ensure cultural roots remain central to the celebration.
Nyege Nyege has struggled with venues in recent years, moving from Itanda Falls to Jinja Golf Course. After months of deliberation, organisers chose Kalagala Falls, a 40-acre riverside site with rafting, bungee jumping, and cultural immersion activities.
“We have finally found a permanent home for the next 10 years,” Debru confirmed.
The Ministry of Tourism has also recognized Nyege Nyege’s economic impact, noting that the festival pumps millions of dollars into Uganda’s economy. For the first time, the ministry will officially sponsor the event.
Over four days, the festival will feature five stages and 300 acts, blending electronic music, amapiano, afrobeats, hip hop, dancehall, and traditional performances.
The first lineup includes international stars like DJ Skrillex (USA), Flowdan (UK), Tash LC (UK), DJ Travella (Tanzania), Boutross (Kenya), Bclip (Colombia), Dylan Brady (USA), and many more. A second wave of Ugandan performers will soon be announced.
Talent Africa Group, which produces the festival, says this edition will cement Uganda’s place on the global cultural map.
“Nyege Nyege at 10 is more than a festival—it is a movement that has shaped Uganda’s creative identity,” said Aly Allibhai, CEO of Talent Africa Group.
This year’s festival will also celebrate a double milestone: Uganda Waragi at 60. As a lead partner, Uganda Breweries Limited will host a special stage with cocktails, performances, and brand activations.
“Uganda Waragi has been part of Uganda’s story for six decades, and it is only fitting that we celebrate alongside Uganda’s biggest cultural festival,” said Hillary Baguma, Brand Manager at UBL.
