Mafikizolo, the renowned South African musical duo, added their star power to the first edition of the One Nation festival sponsored by Pilsner Lager on Sunday. The festival was a celebration of Uganda’s rich cultural heritage.
As attendees entered the festival grounds, they were greeted by a traditional music and dance ensemble, offering a cultural experience right from the outset.
Mafikizolo delivered a colourful and captivating performance, treating the crowd to their beloved hits like “Khona,” “Ndihamba Nawe,” “Emlanjeni,” and more. The audience sang along and cheered enthusiastically from start to finish.
The Baraka dance troupe represented Northern Uganda’s cultural dance and music, showcasing the diverse backgrounds within Uganda.
The Ihunde dance troupe showcased an energetic performance, celebrating the Banyoro culture from Western Uganda. There was also an exciting Kinyarwanda and Maganda mash-up that got everyone on their feet dancing.
The festival featured also a lineup of musical performances, starting with Mudra, who set the tone for the night, followed by Kataleya, Kandle, Allan Toniks, and more. Joannita Kawalya and Moses of the Afrigo band took the audience on a nostalgic journey with their timeless hits.
Edgar Kihumuro, the Brand Manager for Pilsner Lager at Uganda Breweries Limited, expressed the importance of cultural celebration and preservation, highlighting how events like One Nation promote love and unity.
“Embracing and celebrating Uganda’s diverse cultural heritage is crucial in defining our nation, especially as we approach Independence celebrations,” he added.
The inaugural One Nation Festival, while having a modest turnout, offered a delightful mix of great music, dance, and culture, with Pilsner Lager served in beautifully decorated gourds, adding to the festive atmosphere.