Nyege Nyege Festival 2025 at the Kalagala Falls Celebrates Ten Years of Music, Culture and Adventure, Highlighting Tourism Growth and Future Impact in Uganda

Published on November 20, 2025

Today marked the beginning of the 10th edition of the Nyege Nyege Festival at the scenic Adrift Uganda venue, located on the iconic Kalagala Falls. This four-day celebration runs through to Sunday, 23rd November, and is expected to be a major tourist attraction for both tourists and lovers of music in showcasing Uganda’s culture, natural beauty, and growing tourism sector. This event will be attended by thousands and is a moment not only of celebration of music but also one that marks a milestone in the growth and future potential of Uganda’s tourism.

Now, as it nears its 10th anniversary, the festival maintains its international appeal, placing Uganda in a class of its own for both cultural tourism and adventure. The mix of world-class music, cultural display, and outdoor adventure will surely mark a lasting impact on Uganda’s tourism sector and will go a long way in helping shape the future of the nation’s tourism industry.

A Safe and Seamless Experience for Festivalgoers

In a press conference and site visit, Aly Alibhai, CEO of Talent Africa Group, expressed confidence in the festival’s operational readiness, stating that all departments were fully aligned to ensure a safe and seamless experience. Security is a top priority, with national security agencies working in collaboration with festival organizers to ensure the safety of attendees.

Alibhai emphasized that the Nyege Nyege Festival 2025 offers more than just music. It has been strategically curated to deliver a multi-layered experience that celebrates Ugandan culture, community, and creativity. This expanded focus aligns with Uganda’s long-term tourism goals, promoting the country as a high-value, sustainable destination that supports both economic growth and cultural preservation.

New Attractions and Impact on Uganda’s Tourism Landscape

The 10th edition introduces new spaces and features to enhance the visitor experience. These include the UGX Village, a cultural and fashion marketplace, and The Hive, a networking hub designed for music conferences, podcasts, and keynote sessions aimed at international delegates and industry professionals. These additions reflect the festival’s shift toward a more comprehensive tourism product that extends beyond music to include business, fashion, and cultural exchange—further boosting Uganda’s tourism impact.

The festival also aligns with Uganda’s growing emphasis on adventure tourism, with Adrift Uganda and the Lemara Group offering exciting on-site experiences such as white-water rafting, bungee jumping, quad biking, and river cruises. These activities, coupled with the festival’s vibrant cultural offerings, provide a unique opportunity for tourists to explore Uganda’s natural beauty and create a lasting economic impact in local communities. The influx of tourists and adventure-seekers not only brings in much-needed revenue for local businesses but also encourages sustainable tourism practices in the region.

Festival Features and Legacy of Uganda’s Cultural Tourism

While the festival will feature familiar attractions such as the Uganda Waragi Tent and the Hakuna Kulala Stage, it also introduces the Sunrise Stage, positioned near Kalagala Falls, providing a fresh experience for morning music lovers. With performances running from 6 am to 6 pm, this stage offers a unique way to engage with the surrounding natural environment while enjoying top-tier entertainment.

Uganda Waragi, a long-time festival partner, celebrates its 60th anniversary alongside Nyege Nyege’s decade celebration, contributing to the festival’s success and tourism impact. The availability of Uganda Waragi spirit variants across the grounds adds a local touch to the celebration and further integrates Uganda’s heritage into the festival experience. These elements of cultural tourism help solidify Uganda’s growing reputation as a premier cultural and adventure destination, while also contributing to the local economy through food, drink, and artisanship sales.

Boosting Local Economies and Driving Future Tourism Impact

The economic impact of the Nyege Nyege Festival is significant, especially for the local communities around Kalagala Falls. The event draws tourists from both Uganda and international markets, stimulating local businesses in sectors like hospitality, transportation, and artisanal products. The tourism revenue generated helps to fund essential services and initiatives in the region, supporting the local workforce and providing job opportunities in the growing tourism and hospitality industries.

As Uganda continues to position itself as an exciting travel destination, festivals like Nyege Nyege play a crucial role in increasing awareness of the country’s offerings. The festival’s long-term impact will not only be seen in tourism statistics but also in the positive environmental and cultural outcomes fostered by responsible tourism practices. The partnership between local businesses and international tourism networks helps establish Uganda as a sustainable destination for travelers seeking authentic, enriching experiences.

Looking Forward: Sustaining Tourism Growth in Uganda

It is significant to note that Nyege Nyege 2025 marks an important trend in the tourism development strategy for Uganda, especially in cultural and adventure tourism. This festival combines traditional cultural showcases with new adventure experiences to produce a model of tourism sustainability that benefits the economy but also promotes Uganda’s diverse heritage and natural resources.

With ongoing emphasis on quality tourism and sustainable development, the tourism sector in Uganda will continue to grow and bring sustained impacts to the local people and the wider Ugandan economy. As the global tourism markets increasingly shift towards more authentic and experiential tourism, so too will Uganda’s place within the international tourism marketplace continue to grow.