What started as a bold idea to preserve and promote Bakiga heritage has, ten years on, matured into one of Uganda’s most vibrant cultural festivals. This year’s edition of Bakiga Nation, held on Sunday at the Millennium Grounds, was not just a celebration—it was a grand homecoming, a powerful statement of identity and pride.
With the backing of Pilsner Lager, which greeted revellers with free, ice-cold beers at the gate, the tone was set early. Laughter, music, and raised gourds welcomed thousands of people, most clad in vibrant traditional attire, ready to honour a decade of cultural affirmation.
Ray G during his performance at Bakiga Nation
Throughout the day, the soundscape was rich and evocative—thundering drums, spirited ululations, and the infectious rhythm of Kikiga dances filled the air. Cultural troupes wowed audiences with their intricate footwork, each beat echoing the strength and resilience of a people rooted deeply in their traditions.
As the sun dipped lower, the stage shifted from traditional to contemporary, yet the connection to heritage remained strong. Artists singing in Rukiga brought a modern twist to cultural pride. Kigezi’s own Shine Omukiga stirred patriotic emotion, and when Ray G took the stage for the grand finale, his charisma brought the festival to a euphoric close. The crowd, electric with energy, demanded an encore—proof of how far the event has come in building a loyal and passionate following.
One of the standout attractions this year was the Pilsner Cultural Village—a thoughtfully curated interactive space that drew a steady stream of curious revellers. With traditional artefacts, instruments, and backdrops, it offered an immersive glimpse into Bakiga history and lifestyle. Young and old lined up for photos with spears, shields, and calabashes, while others delighted in beating drums to familiar folk rhythms.
But no celebration is complete without food—and at Bakiga Nation, the culinary offerings were as diverse and authentic as the crowd. From sizzling street grills to cherished local favourites like ebitakuri and enturire, the aromas floating through the air told stories of home and belonging. For many, each bite was a trip down memory lane, reconnecting them with roots they may have left behind but never forgotten.
Shine Omukiga on stage.
Beyond the music, dance, and food, Bakiga Nation has become a space for connection and reflection—a cultural reunion where generations meet, share stories, and pass on traditions. In a world increasingly consumed by modernity, this gathering remains a rare and vital place where identity is not just remembered, but celebrated.
Ten years on, Bakiga Nation has proved that culture is not static—it evolves, adapts, and thrives when embraced with intention. And for the thousands who gathered under the skies at Millennium Grounds, this wasn’t just a party. It was a reaffirmation of who they are, where they come from, and where they’re going.
As the drums fell silent and the crowds dispersed, one thing was certain: Bakiga Nation isn’t just an event. It’s a movement—and it’s only just begun.
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