KAMPALA, Oct. 12 — Under a bright Kampala sky, the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds turned into a vibrant canvas of music, color, and culture as the Kampala City Festival 2025 roared back to life. At its heart stood Dr. Hamis Kiggundu, entrepreneur and CEO of Ham Group of Companies, whose UGX 200 million contribution reignited enthusiasm for one of Uganda’s most anticipated events.
Two weeks before the festival, Dr. Kiggundu’s sponsorship positioned Ham Group as the event’s chief private supporter, setting the tone for a celebration of resilience, creativity, and partnership between the public and private sectors.
By midmorning, the capital’s streets pulsed with movement. More than 4,000 Ham Group representatives, dressed in festival colors, marched from Buganda Road to Kololo behind ten branded entertainment trucks. Each vehicle showcased one of the group’s ventures, spanning real estate, industry, technology, and philanthropy. As spectators cheered, the city seemed to move in rhythm with its most visible benefactor. “Ham Group symbolizes Kampala’s forward motion,” said one attendee, watching the parade sweep past.
Flagged off personally by Dr. Kiggundu, the convoy embodied the festival’s theme—Culture, Innovation, and Sustainability—bridging business and community in an energetic show of civic pride.
Organized by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), this year’s event marked the return of the beloved festival after several years of hiatus. Vendors lined the streets, families gathered at food stalls, and children swarmed the new Children’s Village, complete with games and inflatable castles.
KCCA Executive Director Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki praised the collaborative effort behind the event. “This festival celebrates Kampala’s creativity and unity,” she said during a Friday walkthrough with Minister for Kampala Hon. Kabuye Kyofatogabye, who commended private partners for their support.
As twilight fell, performances by Ava Peace, Pastor Wilson Bugembe, Minister Rachael Kay, and the Watoto Children’s Choir electrified the evening crowd. Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, attending as Guest of Honour, lauded the partnership between KCCA and corporate sponsors, calling it “a true reflection of Kampala’s soul.”
Across the grounds, Ham Group’s banners and volunteers stood out, underscoring its deep involvement. On social media, the company’s updates under #HamAtKCF2025 trended nationwide, echoing a message of unity and progress.
For Dr. Kiggundu, the sponsorship was more than a corporate gesture. “Cities thrive when private enterprise complements government effort,” he said in a reflection after the event. “Ham Group’s role is to help build the Kampala we all envision—modern, inclusive, and proud.”
As fireworks illuminated the night sky and crowds sang For God and My Country, the 2025 festival closed as both a cultural and civic triumph. Many saw it as a reminder that collaboration—not competition—defines Uganda’s future.
When the music faded and lights dimmed over Kololo, Kampala exhaled in satisfaction. The city had danced, the people had united, and Ham Group had reaffirmed that progress shines brightest when shared.
