Choral festival showcases African elegance and sacred Christian heritage

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The grand finale of the National Martyrs Choral Festival has officially kicked off with the semi-final showcase, where six outstanding choirs delivered soul-stirring performances that brought both audience and judges to their feet.

What captivated the evening wasn’t just the powerful vocals, but the breathtaking display of African elegance, sacred symbolism, and exquisite stagecraft — transforming the venue into a feast for both the eyes and the spirit. The stage, thoughtfully designed to reflect elements of both Catholic and Anglican traditions, stood as a visual tribute to Uganda’s Christian identity.

Dressed in vibrant traditional attire and accompanied by indigenous instruments, the choirs poured their hearts into each performance. From gomesi kikooyes and kanzus to intricately beaded robes, the ensembles interpreted this year’s theme, “Triumph Over Adversity,” not only through music but also through fashion and storytelling.

Held in the lead-up to Uganda’s Martyrs Day, this second edition of the annual Choral Festival burst forth with colour, culture, and conviction.



The six finalist choirs — three from the Catholic Church and three from the Anglican Church — brought more than just harmonies. They sang with the spirit of a continent, echoing its heritage and faith.

The stage itself was a work of art, fusing religious symbolism with African design. Sculpted motifs representing both Christian denominations adorned the backdrop, symbolising unity in martyrdom. The lighting and set design subtly shifted between performances, allowing each choir to visually narrate its story as well as deliver it vocally.

Beyond vocal ability, choirs are being judged on their interpretation of the Martyrs Day message, with emphasis on stage presence, attire, and the spiritual resonance of their performance.

Currently underway at the Serena Hotel in Kampala, the festival promises substantial prizes: sh10 million for the top choir in each denomination, sh.5 million for the first runners-up, and sh.3 million for the second runners-up.

Rooted in a mission to commemorate Martyrs Day through music, the festival also seeks to promote interfaith collaboration and preserve Uganda’s Christian cultural legacy.

As the curtain rises on the finale, the atmosphere is both festive and reverent. With each choir embodying the theme of triumph not only in sound but also in spirit and style, the evening is set to be more than a musical competition — it will be a moving celebration of faith, resilience, and the enduring beauty of Christian heritage in Africa.