KAMPALA, Oct. 12 — The Kololo Ceremonial Grounds came alive on Saturday as Ham Group of Companies, led by Dr. Hamis Kiggundu, took center stage at the Kampala City Festival 2025, bringing color, rhythm, and a renewed sense of civic pride to Uganda’s capital. The event, organized by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), drew thousands of residents celebrating culture, innovation, and unity under a revitalized city spirit.
Dr. Kiggundu, a philanthropist and CEO of Ham Group, had earlier pledged UGX 200 million, becoming the festival’s leading private sponsor. His contribution revived excitement for an event long viewed as a reflection of Kampala’s resilience and identity.
By mid-morning, the city’s main streets had turned into a vibrant parade route. Over 4,000 Ham Group representatives, dressed in jubilee-themed attire, marched beside ten entertainment trucks displaying the firm’s subsidiaries in real estate, manufacturing, technology, and social enterprise. The convoy, personally flagged off by Dr. Kiggundu, captured the festival’s theme: “Culture, Innovation, and Sustainability.”
Spectators filled Buganda Road and the Kololo precincts, waving flags and singing as the procession moved. “Ham Group’s energy mirrors Kampala’s spirit,” said one attendee. “It’s about leadership that inspires people to believe in progress.”
Throughout the day, the festival grounds buzzed with life. Vendors offered traditional food, artisans displayed handcrafted goods, and children gathered at the newly opened Children’s Village, a highlight of this year’s setup. KCCA Executive Director Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki and State Minister for Kampala Hon. Kabuye Kyofatogabye commended the teamwork that brought the celebration to life. “This festival is a reflection of our unity and creativity as a city,” Buzeki remarked.
As evening settled over Kololo, a lineup of local stars—including Ava Peace, Pastor Wilson Bugembe, Minister Rachael Kay, and the Watoto Children’s Choir—filled the air with music and gratitude. The Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, attended as Guest of Honour, applauding private partners like Ham Group for supporting inclusive urban celebrations.
Social media buzzed as #HamAtKCF2025 trended across Uganda, fueled by posts from the company’s official accounts showcasing the parade and volunteers under the slogan “For God and My Country.”
In his post-event reflection, Dr. Kiggundu emphasized that Ham Group’s involvement symbolized a broader message: national development thrives when the public and private sectors collaborate. “Every thriving city depends on innovation and shared responsibility,” he said. “Our support for KCCA’s vision reflects our belief in Kampala’s potential.”
By nightfall, fireworks lit up the skyline, signaling the close of a festival that felt less like an event and more like a movement. For many, the day underscored the power of Ugandan enterprise to uplift community life.
As the final cheers faded, Kampala stood illuminated—not only by the lights over Kololo but by a renewed optimism in its people and institutions. Ham Group’s presence turned the festival into both a tribute to progress and a promise of what lies ahead.
Kampala celebrated. Ham Group inspired. And Dr. Hamis Kiggundu once again proved that leadership shines brightest when shared with the people.