Kabalega Independence Week 2025 Launched in Hoima City: A Celebration of Heritage, Innovation, and Community Transformation

A group photo of organizers, partners, participants, and cultural entertainers after the launch.

The Kabalega Foundation, in partnership with the Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom and key stakeholders, officially launched the Kabalega Independence Week 2025 on Saturday, 13th September at the Hoima Resort Hotel. This week-long celebration aims to commemorate the legacy of Omukama Cwa II Kabalega, one of Uganda’s most iconic leaders, while catalyzing youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, and community development throughout the Bunyoro region and beyond.

The launch drew a distinguished audience, including the Prime Minister of Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom, His Worship the Mayor of Hoima City, representatives from the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Uganda, government officials, cultural leaders, entrepreneurs, media, and youth advocates.

Honoring Omukama Kabalega: A Legacy of Courage, Vision, and Resistance

In his address, Owek. Andrew K. Byakutaga, Prime Minister of Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom, highlighted the enduring significance of Kabalega’s leadership.

Owek. Andrew K. Byakutaga, the Prime Minister of Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom delivering his remarks at the launch.

“Omukama Kabalega was more than a king; he was a resilient warrior and visionary who stood bravely against colonial oppression, safeguarding the dignity, culture, and self-determination of our people. His courage inspires us to face today’s challenges with the same resolve and innovation,” he reflected.

The Prime Minister emphasized the relevance of Kabalega’s legacy in modern times, urging all stakeholders to embrace the theme of the week — ‘Celebrating Culture, Spurring Innovation & Community Transformation’ — as a blueprint for sustainable development.

“Kabalega Independence Week is a clarion call for all of us to harness our cultural heritage as a foundation for progressive innovation. It reminds us that culture and modernization are not opposing forces but can be harmoniously integrated to build resilient communities,” he added.

A Comprehensive Platform for Youth and Community Empowerment

The Executive Director of Kabalega Foundation, Dr. James Isagara Kisoro provided an overview of the week’s agenda, designed to foster dynamic interaction between culture, business innovation, and community upliftment.

“Kabalega Independence Week is more than a remembrance event. It is a transformative movement that bridges our rich history with contemporary aspirations. From October 1st to 4th, Hoima City will host the Business & Innovation Expo, the 2nd Kabalega Memorial Lecture, and the Independence Run — all curated to showcase talent, entrepreneurship, and community spirit,” said the Executive Director.

The Executive Director of Kabalega Foundation Dr. James Isagara Kisoro addressing the audience at the launch

He further emphasized the foundation’s commitment to aligning the week’s activities with Uganda’s national development frameworks such as Vision 2040 and the Sustainable Development Goals.

“We envision this week as a platform where young innovators and entrepreneurs can connect with mentors, investors, and policy makers. It is an opportunity to turn ideas into impactful ventures that contribute to regional economic growth and social transformation,” she explained.

Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Uganda: A Strategic Partner in Democracy and Local Leadership

Representing Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Uganda, Ms. Anna Reismann, Country Director, drew inspiring parallels between the legacies of Konrad Adenauer, Germany’s first Chancellor after World War II, and Omukama Kabalega.

“Konrad Adenauer and Kabalega both embody the spirit of rebuilding and resilience. Adenauer led Germany’s recovery post-war, emphasizing democratic values and regional cooperation. Similarly, Kabalega championed unity and resistance to oppression, valuing local leadership and cultural identity,” Ms. Reismann said.

The Country Director of Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Uganda, Ms. Anna Reismann delivering her speech as partners at the launch.

She highlighted the Foundation’s dedication to nurturing democracy at the grassroots level.

“Community building begins with local actors — mayors, leaders, citizens — coming together to improve their society. We see this spirit in Kabalega Foundation’s work and are proud to support the Memorial Lecture and the broader Independence Week activities here in Hoima,” she affirmed.

Hoima City: At the Intersection of Culture and Economic Opportunity

Mr. Bosco Muhanuzi Byabagambi, the Hoima East division mayor representing His Worship, the Mayor of Hoima City, Mr. Brian Kaboyo Adyeeri, expressed pride that the city is the host for this historic event.

Mr. Bosco Muhanuzi Byabagambi, the Hoima East division Mayor who represented the Hoima City Mayor delivering his remarks on behalf of the city, as partners.

“Hoima City is more than just the administrative heart of Bunyoro; it is a vibrant economic and cultural hub, positioned at the gateway of Uganda’s emerging oil and gas corridor. Kabalega Independence Week aligns perfectly with our vision to foster sustainable development, promote tourism, and empower our youth,” the Mayor declared.

He emphasized the potential of the week to stimulate local economies and encourage entrepreneurship.

“By hosting the Business & Innovation Expo and other activities, we are providing a platform for our young people to showcase their talents, connect with investors, and build businesses that will transform their lives and communities. Hoima City Council stands firmly behind these efforts,” he pledged.

What to Expect: A Week of Legacy, Innovation & Community Engagement

Kabalega Independence Week 2025 will feature a vibrant lineup of events designed to honor the legacy of Omukama Cwa II Kabalega while promoting heritage, innovation, and meaningful community engagement across the Bunyoro region.

The week’s activities are structured to provide inclusive platforms for youth, entrepreneurs, cultural leaders, civic institutions, and the general public to connect, learn, celebrate, and collaborate.

Some of the participants who attended the launch.

Kabalega Business & Innovation Expo

October 2–4 | Hoima Booma Grounds
The Expo will serve as a dynamic, open platform for youth innovators, SMEs, government agencies, and civil society organizations to exhibit cutting-edge ideas, technologies, services, and cultural products. Visitors can expect business clinics, product showcases, mentoring sessions, and innovation challenges designed to boost local entrepreneurship and job creation.

2nd Kabalega Memorial Lecture

October 3 | Hoima Resort Hotel
This high-level forum will gather leaders, scholars, entrepreneurs, traditional institutions, and youth for an intergenerational dialogue on leadership, transformation, and nation-building. The lecture will feature a renowned keynote speaker, expert panelists, and audience interaction, all aimed at drawing insights from Kabalega’s legacy to shape Uganda’s future.

A cross-section of more of the participants who attended the launch.

Kabalega Independence Run 2025

October 4 | Starting Point: Hoima Booma Grounds
The Independence Run will feature four race categories:

• 2 KM Family Fun Run

• 5 KM Youth Challenge

• 10 KM Community Health Run

• 21 KM Kabalega Half Marathon

Open to all age groups, the Run promotes physical wellness, community spirit, and youth empowerment, with participants receiving branded kits and recognition awards.

The partners unveiling the running kit for Kabalega Independence Run 2025

Cultural Showcases & Community Engagements

Throughout the week, various cultural showcases—traditional music, dance, storytelling, and cuisine—will highlight Bunyoro’s rich heritage. There will also be networking sessions, dialogue spaces, and youth forums, ensuring a holistic and participatory celebration for all.

A Cultural Dance Troupe entertaining the guests at the launch.

Engaging the Community and Attracting Partners

The event also featured cultural interludes with traditional dances celebrating the rich heritage of the Bunyoro people, reinforcing the week’s theme of blending culture with innovation.

The Kabalega Foundation extended a call to action:

• To youth: seize this opportunity to participate actively in the innovation expo, memorial lecture, and Independence Run. These events are designed to ignite leadership skills, promote health, and foster entrepreneurial spirit.

• To businesses and entrepreneurs: showcase your products, connect with regional markets, and explore partnerships that can accelerate growth.

• To partners and sponsors: join hands with the Foundation to amplify impact through strategic collaboration, ensuring sustainable community transformation.

A cross-section of participants applauding upon the successful launch of the Kabalega Independence Week 2025.

Program Highlights: October 1st – 4th, 2025

• Business & Innovation Expo: Showcasing innovative solutions and SME products.

• 2nd Kabalega Memorial Lecture: Featuring thought leaders discussing leadership, culture, and development.

• Kabalega Independence Run 2025: A unifying sporting event encouraging health and community spirit.

Looking Forward

Kabalega Independence Week 2025 promises to be a transformative event that not only commemorates a historic legacy but actively propels Bunyoro and Uganda toward a future of prosperity, innovation, and cultural pride.

For partnership inquiries, sponsorships, and participation, contact: info@kabalegafoundation.org, www.kabalegafoundation.org Follow @KabalegaFoundation on social media #KabalegaIndependenceWeek2025 | #CelebratetheLegacy | #InnovationAndCulture