By Our Reporter
The much-anticipated Elgon Festival 2025 is back, promising to be a spectacular showcase of culture, conservation, and community-driven development. Organizers have confirmed that all preparations are complete, setting the stage for a vibrant celebration that will spotlight the unique identity of the 9 elgon ethnicities from Uganda and Kenya, while driving local economic growth.
Speaking ahead of the event, Mr. Kutosi James, spokesperson for Mbale City, emphasized the festival’s transformative potential for the region. “The Elgon Festival is more than a cultural event—it’s a catalyst for economic stimulation, creating a bustling marketplace for local products and attracting visitors from across the country,” he said.
This year, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) joins the festival as a key partner, aiming to highlight the intersection of cultural celebration and environmental stewardship. Afande Emmanuel Eluka, a UWA representative, noted that visitors can expect a thrilling guided hike along the Bushiyi trail on Mt. Elgon—an experience designed to deepen appreciation for Uganda’s natural heritage.
The festival lineup promises a diverse array of activities, from traditional music and drama to crafts exhibitions and adventure tourism in Wanale and Bulambuli. Winnie Nasity, a member of Creative Market, praised the festival as a powerful platform for nurturing local talent and giving artisans national visibility. “This is where culture meets creativity,” she remarked.
Support for the festival continues to pour in from prominent cultural advocates. Musosi Ibra, Manager of Creative Market Sironko, and popular city personality MC Izaak lauded the event’s role in promoting local arts. MC Izaak pointed to the record-breaking performance by Titus Vibes at a past festival as a shining example of the platform’s impact on emerging talent.
Festival founder Mr. Situma Joseph confirmed that the 2025 edition will feature a unique format across three dynamic nights:
- Bamasaaba Night – A celebration of local cuisine, fashion, and traditional performances.
- International Night – Featuring artists from across the continent and beyond.
- National Night – Spotlighting Uganda’s brightest talents from Kampala and other regions.
Co-founder and lead organizer Priscilla Kaniza extended a warm invitation to the public, promising a lively blend of music, crafts, drama, guided tours, and youth mentorship sessions, culminating in a dazzling finale on National Night.
With its rich blend of tradition, innovation, and environmental awareness, the Elgon Festival 2025 is poised to be one of the most memorable cultural events of the year.
