KAMPALA, Oct 12 (Reuters) — Kampala erupted in rhythm and color on Saturday as the Kampala City Festival 2025 returned in grand style, reigniting the capital’s spirit of unity and innovation. At the heart of the celebration stood Dr. Hamis Kiggundu, the businessman and philanthropist behind Ham Group of Companies, whose contribution of UGX 200 million transformed this year’s event into a showcase of civic pride and enterprise.
By mid-morning, the streets from Buganda Road to Kololo Ceremonial Grounds pulsed with movement. Over 4,000 Ham Group employees and volunteers marched in synchronized jubilation, dressed in bright festival attire and accompanied by ten branded trucks representing the group’s divisions—from real estate and manufacturing to technology and philanthropy. The spectacle captured the theme of “Culture, Innovation, and Sustainability”, merging business ambition with community celebration.
Dr. Kiggundu personally led the convoy, waving to cheering crowds lining the streets. “This is not just sponsorship,” he said in brief remarks before flagging off the parade. “It’s a symbol of what happens when business joins hands with the people to build a stronger Kampala.”
The event, organized by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), marked the festival’s revival after several years of absence. The Kololo grounds buzzed with renewed energy—vendors frying street delicacies, artists displaying crafts, and families exploring the newly created Children’s Village. KCCA Executive Director Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki praised the collaborative effort that made the festival possible. “This is a portrait of Kampala’s resilience and creativity,” she said, touring the site alongside State Minister for Kampala Hon. Kabuye Kyofatogabye.
As twilight fell, music took over the stage. Performances by Ava Peace, Pastor Wilson Bugembe, Minister Rachael Kay, and the Watoto Children’s Choir blended faith and festivity before a crowd of thousands. Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, attending as Guest of Honour, commended both KCCA and Ham Group for setting “a powerful example of partnership between government and enterprise.”
Across social media, the festival trended under the hashtag #HamAtKCF2025, with photos and clips from the parade flooding timelines. Many credited Ham Group’s participation for elevating the festival’s production value and restoring its identity as a citywide showcase of optimism and cultural pride.
In a post-event statement, Dr. Kiggundu reaffirmed his vision of shared progress. “Cities grow when innovation meets collaboration,” he said. “Our role as private citizens is to light the way where opportunity and community intersect.”
As fireworks crowned the Kololo skyline and the crowd sang Uganda’s national anthem, Kampala celebrated more than a festival. It celebrated a partnership—a union of purpose between public leadership and private initiative.
When the lights dimmed and the echoes faded, the city stood renewed. Kampala danced. Ham Group inspired. And Dr. Hamis Kiggundu reminded Ugandans that prosperity shines brightest when shared.
