Thousands of people from across Uganda and the diaspora gathered at Millennium Grounds in Lugogo on Sunday to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Bakiga Nation – Rukundo Egumeho, a cultural festival that has grown into one of the country's notable platforms for preserving and promoting the heritage of the Bakiga community.
The event brought together people of all ages for a day of traditional music, dance, storytelling, cuisine and cultural exhibitions, transforming the venue into a vibrant showcase of Kigezi's rich traditions.
The anniversary edition marked a decade since the inception of the Rukundo Egumeho movement, highlighting the growing role of cultural festivals in strengthening identity, promoting unity and connecting communities across generations.
Revellers were treated to performances by renowned musicians, the Bakiga Nation Cultural Troupe and other entertainers, alongside exhibitions showcasing traditional crafts, food and fashion. Networking sessions and family-friendly activities also formed part of the day's programme.
Among the organisations participating in this year's event was Roke Telkom, which used the festival to showcase its digital connectivity solutions. The internet service provider demonstrated its portable RokeSpot Wi-Fi device and the Roke Travel eSIM, products aimed at improving internet access for users at events and while travelling.
Speaking during the festival, a Roke Telkom representative said the company views cultural events as an opportunity to connect with communities beyond providing internet services.
"At Roke Telkom, we believe connectivity goes beyond broadband. It is about bringing people together, preserving the stories that define us and creating experiences that enrich people's lives. Through innovations like RokeSpot and the Roke Travel eSIM, we are making it easier for Ugandans to stay connected wherever they are while supporting platforms that celebrate our shared heritage," the company representative said.
The participation of technology companies at cultural events reflects the increasing intersection between digital innovation and Uganda's creative economy, with festivals serving as platforms for tourism promotion, local businesses, artists and community engagement.
Over the past decade, Bakiga Nation has evolved from a community gathering into one of Uganda's leading cultural lifestyle festivals, attracting thousands of attendees annually while celebrating the traditions, cuisine, music and storytelling of the Kigezi sub-region.
Organisers said the festival continues to provide a platform for preserving cultural heritage while fostering social cohesion and encouraging younger generations to embrace their identity.
As Uganda continues to promote cultural tourism and home-grown experiences, events such as Bakiga Nation are increasingly being recognised as important drivers of cultural preservation, community development and economic activity.
