(Kamuli) – The upcoming Nyege Nyege festival, set to take place in November in Jinja, is creating tension between First Deputy Prime Minister Rebecca Kadaga and local religious leaders. This latest conflict occurred during the Busoga Prayers organized by the Busoga Consortium for Development in Luuka District, where Kadaga defended the festival against criticisms from religious figures.
During the prayers, Rt Rev Hannington Ssuubi, Bishop of Busoga East, voiced strong opposition to the festival, arguing that it damages the reputation of Busoga and negatively influences children. He stated, “There is an annual event called Nyege Nyege. It gives Busoga bad publicity. We condemn it, and it shouldn’t happen in Busoga again.” The bishop referenced previous festivals where condoms were found, suggesting these incidents reflect immoral behavior associated with the event.
In contrast, Kadaga, who supports the festival, highlighted its positive contributions to the region’s economy and tourism. She challenged the bishop’s claims, saying, “The entrance fee for Nyege Nyege is UGX 300,000. Which child in Busoga can afford that? Let’s not misrepresent facts.” Kadaga emphasized the festival’s benefits, noting that it leads to full hotel occupancy in Jinja, Iganga, Mayuge, and Njeru, which boosts local businesses.
Kadaga further argued, “This is a prime opportunity for development in Busoga. Many people earn money during this time, and we cannot afford to lose this chance.” Her remarks illustrated the economic importance of the festival for the local community.
This dispute is not the first instance of religious leaders opposing the Nyege Nyege festival. Recently, during a three day crusade by Phaneroo Ministries International, led by Apostle Grace Lubega, church leaders proclaimed the need to end the festival’s presence in Jinja City. Lubega addressed the gathering at the Railway Grounds, saying, “A time has come when people will try to enter the gates of Jinja City with Nyege Nyege, but the spiritual environment will not allow them.” He urged attendees to declare, “fire” to dispel what he described as ungodly festivals.
In 2022, Uganda’s Parliament nearly banned the Nyege Nyege festival due to moral concerns, but government intervention allowed the event to proceed. More recently, Jinja’s new Overseer of Born Again Churches, Bishop Richard Kyendakulya, expressed a commitment to stopping the festival, blaming its existence on weak faith leadership.
The Nyege Nyege Festival is scheduled to run from November 14 to November 17 in Jinja City, and its anticipated arrival continues to generate significant debate within the community. The festival’s future remains a contentious issue in the region as both sides voice their opinions.
