A night of rhythm and unity: The Ugandan independence gala in Perth

______________________

_________________________

In Australia's coastal city of Perth, the air was alive with the rhythm of Kadodi drums as Uganda’s High Commissioner exited the stage back to her seat. From the heart of the stage, Pearl Afrikulture Rhythms, Melbourne’s own ambassadors of African culture, commanded the night with their electrifying Kadodi dance — a dance traditionally synonymous with the Bamasaba people in Uganda's east.

The recreation of this energetic dance on this evening of celebration thousands of kilometres away from Bugisu was nothing short of addictive. The lively performers' ankles rattled in sync with every stomp, and feathered headpieces swayed to the ancient beat. The sound was raw and ancestral, as though it had wafted all the way from the foothills of Mount Elgon in Mbale to Australia's coast.

It was simply irresistible!

Enchanted dignitaries and guests naturally rose to their feet, not out of formality, but as if pulled by an invisible current. Military ranks, political titles, and religious hierarchies dissolved into the drumbeat. For that one time, there were no “Honourables” or “Majors” — only people, laughing, clapping, and dancing. Everywhere, joy replaced protocol.

The hall where all this unfolded erupted in colour and style. Fluttering gomesis, shimmering suits, and headscarves twirled together as the crowd answered the dancers’ call. Waistlines twisted, feet struck the floor, and even guests from distant lands couldn’t resist the magnetic pull of Africa’s rhythm.

The formal speeches — once carefully planned with solemn precision — melted into the background. Updates on citizenship reforms, diaspora engagement, and tourism opportunities were received not merely as policies, but as promises, a bridge between home and abroad.

Words of development and progress from departments spanning immigration, lands, investment, and tourism gave way to something more powerful: a celebration of identity.

For Ugandans scattered across the vastness of Australia and beyond, community gatherings are rare. But the Uganda Inter-State Independence Day Gala felt almost sacred. It wasn’t just about marking 63 years of Uganda's independence; it was about finding each other again.

Traditional troupes from Rwanda and northern Uganda followed, their performances echoing the African continent’s shared soul.

When the royal Kiganda dancers took the stage, the line between performer and guest vanished completely. Everyone was swept into the same joyful current.

Coats and shawls were tossed aside, jackets tied around waists. Even the most reserved guests found themselves laughing, sweating, dancing and embracing their identity and celebrating it.

Even musician Kenneth Tusubira (better known as Zaga), despite his injury, limped onto the stage — and somehow made everyone limp along with him. The moment was electric.

Then came “Emali” — that timeless Ugandan classic, reborn through generations of singers!

When the DJ dropped the beat, the floor erupted. Each step seemed to burn away homesickness and the quiet solitude of diaspora life. And thanks to the generous servings of Ugandan delicacies — matooke, ugali, groundnut paste, and more — no one ran out of energy.

'A success!'

At the height of the song, the crowd parted slightly to reveal a sight few expected: High Commissioner Dorothy Samalie Hyuha, Maj. Gen. Apollo Kasiita-Gowa (the Chief of Citizenship and Immigration Control), and Dorcas W. Okalany (lands ministry permanent secretary), dancing shoulder-to-shoulder with the community.

Laughter rose above the music.

“It’s a great evening, thank you all for making it a success!” said Geoffrey Gumikiriza, the president of the host association (Uganda Western Australia Association), his voice nearly drowned by cheers and drums.

Wine, beers and soft drinks flowed generously, conversations sparkled, and plates made their rounds again. For a moment, Perth felt like Kampala on a perfect day. The evening had been powered by the generosity of the Ugandan High Commission, but it was sustained by something deeper: the spirit of togetherness.

As the final drumbeat faded, Amb. Hyuha smiled and said softly, “It is great to come together and celebrate.” She didn’t need to say more. Everyone in the hall understood.

It wasn’t just a gala. It was a homecoming, a night where culture danced louder than words and Uganda’s heartbeat echoed far beyond its borders.

Western Australia had proudly hosted the Inter-State Independence Dinner before the baton was passed to Brisbane for the next celebration next year.

Maj. Gen. Apollo Kasiita-Gowa (left) hands over a gift to Geoffrey Gumikiriza, the host association president

_________________________

 MORE PICTURES FROM THE GALA 

An Aboriginal dance performance