Deputy Prime Minister Kadaga Lauds Nyege Nyege Festival Attendees, Emphasizes Economic Impact

Uganda’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs, Rebecca Kadaga, expressed gratitude to the enthusiastic attendees of the 2023 Nyege Nyege festival on its opening day. Kadaga extended her thanks for their support to the local economy of Busoga and the broader tourism sector in Uganda. She encouraged festival-goers to relish the experience while also inviting them to consider wise investments in the region, underscoring the festival’s positive economic influence on Jinja and its surrounding areas.

Organized by Talent Africa Group and sponsored by Uganda Waragi, the Nyege Nyege festival, often dubbed “the Tomorrowland of Africa,” is currently in its eighth edition in Jinja City, running from 9th to 12th November. The festival annually attracts thousands of both local and international visitors to Jinja, offering three days of music, community engagement, self-expression, and cultural diversity.

During her visit, Kadaga toured the festival grounds, dedicating time to the Busoga Kingdom stage, where over 25 regional artists are set to perform. She also visited Uganda Breweries Limited’s “Wrong Side of the Road” tent, which promotes responsible alcohol consumption habits among festival attendees.

Addressing security concerns, Kadaga assured attendees, stating, “His Excellency the President has requested me to assure you that all the major events in Jinja – starting with this one and the Kyabazinga’s wedding happening next weekend – are fully secure.” She further mentioned that senior military and police officers, experts in specific fields, have been deployed by the president to oversee security at the festival. Notable figures in this deployment include Brig. Gen. Joseph Semwanga, the UPDF 1st Division Commander; Col. Robert Ruteinama, the Busoga region UPDF Cantonment Commander; ACP Ashraf Chemonges, the Commander of the Alert Squad in the Uganda Police; Brig. Joseph Semwanga; ACP Patrick Lawot, and Col. Bernard Tuhame.