Kampala, Uganda— After years of being a top hangout in Kololo, H2O Lounge & Bar has officially shut its doors. According to sources, the owner opted not to renew the lease agreement, bringing the venue’s operations to an abrupt end.
A Legacy of Nights to Remember
Since opening in 2017, H2O became synonymous with chic open‑air experiences in Kololo. Located within walking distance of Acacia Mall, the lounge hosted signature nights, often teaming up with big-name brands like Johnnie Walker on major events—including its 6th anniversary celebration in November 2023, headlined by live performances from Cindy and Winnie Nwagi ([Matooke Republic][1]).
What Went Wrong?
Although not closed due to controversy or legal action, H2O had previously faced community pressure. A cluster of Kololo residents, including high‑profile figures, filed a lawsuit citing noise pollution, along with other upscale bars such as Big Mike’s and Casablanca Pub. While some other establishments were shut down, H2O remained open at the time ([New Vision][2]).
However, rising costs in prime Kololo real estate—estimated rent running into tens of thousands of dollars monthly—combined with steep taxes, have made the bar business increasingly unsustainable. Many nightlife venues in Kampala are shutting down or restructuring as competition and overhead rise ([Monitor][3]).
The Final Act
The lease termination appears to have been initiated by the landlord or property owner rather than regulatory bodies. Without renewal, H2O’s management decided to cease operations immediately—ending an era for one of Kampala’s most beloved nightlife destinations.
What’s Next?
It remains unclear whether the venue will be taken over by new operators or rebranded entirely. For now, loyal patrons will miss the lounge’s relaxed ambiance, live DJ sets, and vibrant whisky-themed nights that made H2O Lounge a fixture of Kololo nightlife.
