The Nyege Nyege festival, one of Africa's most prominent cultural events, is set to take place in Uganda from November 19 to 22, 2026. This year's edition, dubbed the "Wakaliwood Edition", promises to be different from previous ones, with a focus on collaboration with the Wakaliwood film production company. The event will bring together over 200 artists from Uganda, East Africa, and beyond, showcasing a diverse range of music, film, and cultural activities.
The festival will feature a mix of music genres, including solo artists, bands, traditional music, and experimental sounds. The event will also include a dedicated section for Dub and Reggae music, with Rwanda and Kenya having their own pavilions. In addition to music, the festival will feature comedy shows, fashion, visual arts, and other activities that will engage attendees beyond just watching performances.
One of the founders of Nyege Nyege, Derek Debru, stated that after 10 previous editions, the team wanted to introduce a new twist to the festival by incorporating film production. The collaboration with Wakaliwood will see parts of the Kalagala Falls area transformed into a film production site, giving attendees a chance to participate in film-making activities.
The festival aims to promote Uganda as a tourist destination with a rich cultural industry. In partnership with Explore Uganda, attendees will be offered packages to explore Uganda's tourist attractions, cultural events, and adventure activities beyond the festival. Arthur Lwamufu, from Uganda's tourism board, noted that Nyege Nyege is a powerful platform to showcase Uganda's tourism, culture, and creative industry.
This year's festival will also feature a special event focused on the Africa Football Confederation (AFCON), adding sports to the mix of music, film, and culture. The organizers have made several changes to the festival's logistics, including improved access, parking, and accommodation. Tents have been set up to accommodate up to 1,000 people, and Adrift River Club will offer additional accommodation and recreational activities.
Prior to the festival, the African Electronic Music Conference will take place from November 17 to 19, bringing together artists, music producers, event organizers, and cultural institutions to discuss the future of Africa's music industry. After over 10 years of promoting Ugandan music and culture, Nyege Nyege is set to expand its scope, incorporating film, tourism, fashion, and other creative industries.
The Nyege Nyege festival has become a major event in Uganda, attracting visitors from across Africa and beyond. The 2026 edition promises to be an exciting experience, with a mix of music, film, and cultural activities that will engage attendees and promote Uganda's creative industry.
Key points
- The Nyege Nyege festival will take place from November 19 to 22, 2026, in Uganda.
- This year's edition features a collaboration with Wakaliwood film production company.
- The festival aims to promote Uganda as a tourist destination with a rich cultural industry.
