This weekend, the vibrant town of Jinja, home to the iconic Source of the Nile, will become a pulsating celebration of music, culture, and creativity as the Nyege-Nyege International Festival returns for its ninth edition.
Under this year's theme, "Afrogalactic Carnival," East and Central Africa's premier music and arts festival promises four electrifying days of performances, cultural exchange, and artistic expression, drawing thousands of revelers from across the globe.
Running from November 14 to November 17, the festival will bring together a rich lineup of local and international artists, dancers, and creators performing across seven stages set within the scenic 10-acre venue at Jinja Club, near Lake Victoria.
This vast, nature-immersed setup offers a unique experience where music and nature harmoniously collide, providing an unparalleled platform for African and global artists to showcase their talent.
Ali Albhai, Group CEO of Talent Africa, which organizes the festival, highlighted that Nyege-Nyege 2024 is more than a celebration of music; it's a substantial economic boost for the Jinja region.
"All hotels are fully booked, the transport sector is thriving, and local vendors are experiencing booming sales," he noted, underscoring the festival's role in creating business opportunities and promoting tourism across Jinja and its neighboring districts.
The festival's relocation to the Jinja Club--due to ongoing development projects by the Ministry of Tourism at the Source of the Nile--has not deterred its international allure, with attendees expected from around the world.
For Derek Debru, Nyege-Nyege Co-founder and a committed Christian, the festival is much more than just an event.
Facing criticism from detractors who label the gathering as immoral, Debru insists that Nyege-Nyege is a celebration of unity, inclusivity, and self-expression.
"Singling out Nyege-Nyege as the cause of immorality in Uganda is diversionary," he asserted, inviting critics to experience the festival firsthand.
To Debru, Nyege-Nyege is about reclaiming African pride and breaking stereotypes, challenging conservative views rooted in colonialism. He pointed to the pressure on Africans to conform to Western names and customs--a form of "cultural erasure"--arguing that events like Nyege-Nyege help people reconnect with their African identities.
"Our names connect us to our ancestors, our language, and our land," Debru explained. "Africa is not inherently satanic, and the West is not inherently godly."
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He believes the festival challenges colonial mindsets, encouraging Africans to celebrate their roots and affirm their unique identities.
Over the years, Nyege-Nyege has grown into a movement that resonates far beyond its festival grounds, serving as a platform for critical conversations about identity, cultural ownership, and authenticity.
The event invites Africans to rediscover their heritage, embrace diversity, and promote understanding across communities.
"Nyege-Nyege is more than a festival; it's a movement," Debru said. "We're challenging harmful norms, celebrating diversity, and building a more inclusive Africa."
As the beats continue along the Nile's edge, Nyege-Nyege reaffirms its role as a dynamic celebration of Africa's spirit, offering a powerful reminder of the continent's rich traditions, creativity, and unity.
