Businessman Dr Hamis Kiggundu injects Shs200m to support Kampala City Carnival at Kololo
Renowned businessman and Ham Enterprises founder, Dr Hamis Kiggundu, has pledged Shs200 million to support the organisation of the Kampala City Carnival, which makes its long-awaited return this October.
The announcement followed a meeting held on Tuesday at Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) offices, where Dr Kiggundu met with Executive Director Hajat Sharifah Buzeki and Deputy Executive Director Benon Moses Kigenyi.
The Kampala City Carnival, which had been suspended for several years, is being revived as part of efforts to reposition Kampala as a hub of culture, creativity, tourism and innovation.
The 2025 edition will climax at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, with colourful processions, cultural showcases, musical performances, exhibitions and community-driven activities expected to attract thousands of residents and visitors.
During the meeting, Dr Kiggundu emphasised that his contribution is aimed at ensuring the smooth organisation of the event. He highlighted the carnival’s importance in promoting unity, showcasing Kampala’s cultural identity and providing opportunities for young people and entrepreneurs through entertainment and trade exhibitions.
“Kampala deserves a carnival that reflects our vibrancy and potential as a capital city,” Dr Kiggundu is quoted as saying. “This is not just about entertainment but about giving residents and businesses a platform to celebrate who we are and what we can achieve together.”
KCCA leaders warmly welcomed the businessman’s gesture. Executive Director Buzeki commended Dr Kiggundu for his continued support to city initiatives, pointing to his earlier contribution of 100,000 royal palm trees for the greening of Kampala.
“The carnival is a celebration of Kampala’s diversity, resilience and growth. Support from partners like Dr Kiggundu is critical in making this vision a reality,” she noted.
Deputy Executive Director Kigenyi added that the funds would be used transparently and strategically, with allocations for logistics, sanitation, artist facilitation, sound and stage setup, as well as crowd-management and security at Kololo Grounds.
“Hosting such a massive event requires collaboration. With this contribution, we are confident of delivering a safe, inclusive and world-class carnival,” he said.
The Kampala City Carnival has historically been one of the biggest social events on Uganda’s calendar, drawing street parades, food fairs, corporate showcases and performances by leading local artists. Its revival is expected to stimulate economic activity, boost tourism and reaffirm Kampala’s position as East Africa’s cultural heartbeat.
Analysts say private-sector support is vital in bridging funding gaps for such large-scale civic events, especially at a time when KCCA is balancing its responsibilities of service delivery, infrastructure management and public safety. For Dr Kiggundu, the Shs200m injection also reinforces his image as a businessman committed to community development, even as his commercial ventures and urban projects remain under public scrutiny.
As preparations intensify, KCCA has assured residents that detailed programmes and guidelines will be released ahead of the carnival. The authority has also pledged strict accountability for all contributions received from private and corporate partners.
With excitement already building across the city, the October festival at Kololo promises not only to revive a beloved tradition but also to showcase a Kampala that is dynamic, united and open for cultural and business opportunities.
