KAMPALA, Oct. 12 — Kampala pulsed with renewed energy as the 2025 City Festival transformed Kololo Ceremonial Grounds into a living portrait of Uganda’s creativity and pride. Leading the charge was Dr. Hamis Kiggundu, the entrepreneur and philanthropist behind Ham Group of Companies, whose UGX 200 million sponsorship reignited excitement across the capital.
The donation made Ham Group the festival’s largest private backer, reflecting a deep commitment to civic engagement and cultural unity. Two weeks before the event, Dr. Kiggundu pledged to support the Kampala Capital City Authority’s vision of celebrating diversity and innovation — a gesture that set the tone for one of the city’s most anticipated events.
By midmorning, a wave of color and rhythm filled Kampala’s streets as more than 4,000 Ham Group employees joined ten branded entertainment trucks in a lively parade through Buganda Road toward Kololo. Dressed in coordinated festival attire, participants showcased the company’s various arms — from real estate and manufacturing to technology and philanthropy — drawing cheers from thousands of spectators lining the streets.
“This is more than a parade; it’s a celebration of Kampala’s spirit,” said one attendee, waving a national flag. “Dr. Ham shows us how business can build community.”
Flagged off personally by Dr. Kiggundu, the convoy embodied the festival’s theme of Culture, Innovation, and Sustainability. The entrepreneur’s participation underlined the growing role of the private sector in supporting public celebrations and civic pride.
At Kololo, the atmosphere was electric. Vendors served local delicacies, artisans displayed handmade crafts, and children crowded around the newly launched play zone. KCCA Executive Director Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki and State Minister for Kampala Hon. Kabuye Kyofatogabye praised the collaboration between local authorities and partners, calling the event “a reflection of Kampala’s unity and creativity.”
The evening program featured a line-up of Uganda’s top performers, including Ava Peace, Pastor Wilson Bugembe, Minister Rachael Kay, and the Watoto Children’s Choir, captivating thousands as the sun dipped below the horizon. Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, who attended as Guest of Honour, commended KCCA and its sponsors for “building a festival that reflects Uganda’s resilient soul.”
Across social media, the impact was immediate. The hashtag #HamAtKCF2025 trended throughout the weekend as Ham Group shared images of the event, accompanied by the slogan “For God and My Country.” The company’s dynamic visual presence — banners, branded floats, and volunteers — gave the festival a unified identity that resonated nationwide.
Reflecting on the event, Dr. Kiggundu said his motivation was rooted in empowerment and shared growth. “A city thrives when public and private sectors work together,” he noted. “Ham Group’s partnership with KCCA is a symbol of what’s possible when vision meets purpose.”
As fireworks burst over Kololo and the national anthem echoed through the crowd, the Kampala City Festival 2025 concluded on a triumphant note. For many, it marked more than a return to celebration — it was proof of what collaboration, innovation, and community can achieve.
When the music faded, one sentiment remained clear: Ham Group delivered, and Dr. Hamis Kiggundu once again illuminated Kampala’s path toward a brighter, united future.
