Nyege Nyege responds to calls for festival’s ban
The Ugandan festival said it hopes to “share joy responsibly and respectfully”
Nyege Nyege – a dance musical festival taking place annually in Jinja, Uganda – has responded to calls for its ban.
Last week, a religious figure spoke out against the event during a sermon in Jinja, saying that it is amongst other "ungodly festivals" that promote "immorality”, according to the Nile Post.
In a statement shared on Instagram earlier this week, the festival explained: “In response to recent statements from Phaneroo Ministries, we wish to clarify the purpose, mission, and values of the Nyege Nyege Festival.”
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“Nyege Nyege Festival is a celebration rooted in a powerful symbol of unity and flow,” they said, which hopes to “share joy responsibly and respectfully”.
The festival's 2024 edition is set to take place in just a few weeks time from November 14 - 17 at the source of the River Nile in Jinja, close to Kampala.
“Just as the Nile brings life to the region, connecting diverse cultures and landscapes, so too does Nyege Nyege seek to foster unity through the universal languages of music, art, and cultural exchange.”
“Established as a platform for artistic expression, cultural celebration, and economic empowerment, the festival contributes significantly to Uganda's cultural tourism and strengthens the local economy,” the festival explained.
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They added that the event “opens doors” for both emerging and established artists, and hopes to provide a safe and inclusive space where “creativity thrives”. They also said that the festival operates “within Ugandan law” and has a strong relationship with authorities.
“We respect the diverse beliefs and perspectives within our communities, including those shared by faith-based groups. However, we believe that inclusivity and mutual respect are fundamental to community cohesion and national progress.”
Nyege Nyege’s 2024 line-up includes the likes of Acid Pauli, Kampire, Jamz Supernova, Authentically Plastic, Godsfavourite, and more.
Read the full statement from Nyege Nyege below.
Gemma Ross is Mixmag's Assistant Editor, follow her on Twitter