Abavandimwe Carnival lights up Lugogo in celebration of culture and unity

Last Saturday, the Abavandimwe Carnival opened its gates at midday, and by evening the Lugogo Cricket Grounds in Kampala were awash in white, as thousands adhered to the dress code.

The Bavandimwe are indigenous Banyarwanda living in Uganda, and the carnival offered a vibrant showcase of their heritage and contemporary culture.

Ingyenzi Troupe performing at Abavandimwe Carnival Igitaramo at Lugogo Cricket Oval. Photo by Ignatius Kamya

As crowds grew, the oval transformed into a sea of white, creating a striking visual that matched the energy on the ground. Smiles, dance moves, and raised phones filled the air as revelers embraced the rare blend of tradition and modern entertainment.

Traditional performances led by Rwanda’s Inyamibwa Cultural Troupe anchored the event in heritage. As night fell, the carnival shifted into a musical spectacle, with Jose Chameleone and Eddy Kenzo headlining to thunderous cheers.

Cindy Sanyu, Sheebah Karungi, Nandor Love, Ray G, and Omega 256 kept the momentum high, turning the venue into a massive sing‑along arena. Gospel highlights came courtesy of Pastor Wilson Bugembe and Joseph Ngoma.

In a special moment, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni addressed the Abavandimwe community via live on‑screen message, applauding them for preserving cultural identity and promoting unity.

Sheebah Karungi at Abavandimwe Carnival Igitaramo at Lugogo Cricket Oval. Photo by Ignatius Kamya

“I greet all of you, Abavandimwe, and thank you for supporting the NRM and my candidature. I know you are pleased that I addressed the harassment and injustices you faced, especially from bureaucrats and political opportunists. Our long‑term vision for citizenship is guided by a strategic plan aimed at East African unity, following the path laid by our elders, including Mwalimu Nyerere, who worked tirelessly for regional integration. This is the aspiration we continue to pursue,” Museveni said.

Fans njoying performances at Abavandimwe Carnival

The excitement peaked with a colourful fireworks display, capping off a day of celebration.

The carnival also drew notable public figures, including Pastor Aloysius Bujjingo and Dr. Lawrence Muganga. Frank Gashumba, chairman of the Abavandimwe council, emphasized the event’s significance:

“This carnival shows that culture can unite us, celebrate us, and still move with the times.”