Nyungu Ya Mawe Forest Park was buzzing with life over the weekend as the much-awaited Ndeku Nyama Choma Festival took place.
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The three-day event was a blend of culture, music, fashion, and culinary delights, drawing in a crowd eager to celebrate Uganda’s rich heritage and its vibrant modern scene.
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A Fresh Start Amidst the Rains
The festival’s second day came after heavy Saturday rains, which washed away the previous day’s footprints, setting the stage for a fresh start.
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By 4 pm, the air was thick with the mouthwatering aroma of meats sizzling on grills, as revellers gathered around, ready to indulge in the roasted delicacies that defined the heart of the festival.
The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, a perfect contrast to the cool, damp day, creating a nostalgic yet lively environment.
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Uganda Waragi Brings a Cultural Twist
A key highlight of the festival was the cultural twist provided by Uganda Waragi Lemon and Ginger. Served in traditional "Ndeku" gourds, the drink offered a modern zing while paying homage to Uganda Waragi's deep roots, celebrating 60 years of the brand.
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"Uganda Waragi is proud to give our patrons the ability to enjoy in all ways they can," said Hillary Baguma, Head of Mainstream Spirits at Uganda Breweries.
The blend of heritage and innovation was well received by festival-goers, and the drink became a symbol of the country's rich traditions meeting its dynamic future.
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Music, Fashion, and Soulful Performances Ignite the Night
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As the night grew darker, the festival truly came alive. The tented campers emerged from their cosy setups, drawn by the pulsating rhythms of Afrobeat, Amapiano, and Ugandan contemporary music, mixed by DJs Critic, Willcuts, and Unknown DJ. The festival's energy surged as each hour passed, with the crowd fully immersed in the beats.
A short but striking fashion show added another layer of excitement, with models strutting bold, unconventional looks that blended vintage, chic, and innovative styles.
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The crowd cheered in appreciation, their gourds held high in celebration.
The atmosphere shifted when Emma Frost took the stage, captivating the crowd with acoustic renditions of fan favourites like "Sijja" by Doctor Brain, "Let It Be" by Geosteady, and "Masavu" by Azawi.
The crowd sang along, swaying under the stars, proving that Uganda knows how to bring people together through both high-energy DJ sets and soulful live performances.
A Celebration of Culture, Heritage, and Unity
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Under the lush canopy of Nyungu Ya Mawe, revellers shared drinks, music, and laughter, enjoying the perfect harmony between nature and nightlife.
Uganda Waragi’s 60th anniversary was celebrated not just as a milestone for the brand but as a testament to Uganda’s thriving party scene. With the bonfire burning bright and Uganda Waragi flowing freely, strangers became kin, united by the love of music, culture, and celebration.
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The festival continued into the early hours of Sunday morning, leaving everyone with unforgettable memories of a weekend that honoured both the past and the future of Uganda’s vibrant party culture.