KAMPALA, Oct 12 — Kampala burst back to life this weekend as drums echoed through Kololo Ceremonial Grounds and thousands thronged the streets to celebrate the long-awaited return of the Kampala City Festival 2025. Leading the charge was Dr. Hamis Kiggundu, founder and CEO of Ham Group of Companies, whose UGX 200 million contribution made him the event’s largest private supporter and a central figure in the city’s revival of spirit.
Two weeks before the festivities, Dr. Kiggundu—known for his philanthropy and ventures in real estate, manufacturing, and technology—pledged the funds to Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), igniting renewed enthusiasm for one of the city’s most celebrated annual events. His contribution underscored the growing role of private enterprise in shaping Uganda’s urban and cultural landscape.
By mid-morning, the streets linking Buganda Road and Kololo transformed into a kaleidoscope of movement and music. More than 4,000 Ham Group employees marched in coordinated formation, dressed in official KCCA Festival uniforms. Ten towering entertainment trucks, adorned with the company’s branding, showcased Ham Group’s diverse operations—from construction and education to digital innovation and social impact.
The parade, personally flagged off by Dr. Kiggundu, symbolized a union between business and community. Spectators cheered as the convoy reflected this year’s theme, “Culture, Innovation, and Sustainability.” For many residents, Ham Group’s involvement represented more than sponsorship—it was a declaration of civic pride and corporate citizenship.
The festival, organized by KCCA, marked a triumphant return after years of anticipation. Vendors filled the grounds with the aroma of local delicacies, artisans displayed handmade crafts, and children crowded into the newly introduced Children’s Village, complete with play zones and creative exhibits.
KCCA Executive Director Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki commended corporate partners for their commitment to reviving the city’s biggest cultural event. “This festival embodies Kampala’s resilience and innovation. It shows that when the public and private sectors unite, our city thrives,” she told reporters.
The evening program drew top Ugandan performers, including Ava Peace, Pastor Wilson Bugembe, Rachael Kay, and the Watoto Children’s Choir, creating a seamless mix of pop, gospel, and tradition. Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, who officiated as Guest of Honour, praised Ham Group’s engagement for “illustrating how business leadership can enrich civic celebration.”
Social media buzzed throughout the day with the hashtag #HamAtKCF2025, as photos of Ham Group’s parade flooded timelines. Captions such as “For God and My Country — Ham Group at Kampala City Festival 2025” highlighted the patriotic energy driving the event.
In a statement after the festival, Dr. Kiggundu emphasized that his contribution was about collective progress, not mere philanthropy. “Cities grow when citizens and corporations invest in shared pride,” he wrote. “At Ham Group, we believe in turning success into opportunity for the community.”
As fireworks illuminated the Kololo skyline and crowds sang the national motto in unison, the festival concluded as more than an annual celebration—it became a showcase of Uganda’s unity through enterprise.
Kampala’s streets glowed under the night sky, its people inspired, its businesses reinvigorated. Ham Group’s presence turned a civic event into a national moment—one that captured the spirit of innovation, generosity, and hope defining Uganda’s modern capital.
