The 8th edition of the Nyege Nyege Festival, hosted at the enchanting Nyege Wonderland spanning Jinja's iconic sites, unfolded as a groundbreaking success despite international terror alerts. From November 9 to November 12, 2023, the vibrant city played host to over 20,000 music aficionados, including more than 3,000 globetrotting tourists, solidifying its reputation as one of East Africa's premier tourism events.
Organized with precision by Talent Africa and Nyege Nyege Tapes, this edition raised the bar for safety and event organization. Robust security measures, featuring the Uganda Police, UPDF, private security, and the Uganda Red Cross, were in place, showcasing an unyielding commitment to the safety and well-being of festival-goers.
Kicking off on Thursday, November 9, 2023, the festival was inaugurated by the First Deputy Prime Minister, Hon Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga.
She delivered a message on behalf of the President, underscoring the government's dedication to ensuring the security of all attendees.
Uganda Breweries Ltd, the title sponsor, played a pivotal role in enhancing the safety of festival-goers.
They spearheaded a comprehensive safety drinking campaign, urging revelers to prioritize well-being. The campaign emphasized responsible drinking habits, encouraging attendees to stay hydrated, pace their alcohol intake, and snack while enjoying beverages.
The musical extravaganza featured a stellar lineup of over 300 acts across seven stages, headlined by international sensations such as Sho Madjozi (SA), Eddy Kenzo, DJ Vigro Deep (SA), Apass, Janzi Band, and Aunty Rayzor (Nigeria).
Beyond music, the festival offered diverse attractions, including a Ferris wheel, Merry Go Round, NRG Carnival Parade, Boat Rides, Tourism Excursions, and much more.
The local community in Jinja experienced a significant economic upswing, with all hotels within a 20km radius fully booked.
SafeBoda orchestrated a seamless transportation network for Boda Bodas, ensuring safe commuting, while locals secured priority vendor slots.
The festival's economic impact on Uganda is estimated to be at least $10 million USD.
