How Ugandans are ringing in the New Year

As the clock ticks closer to midnight, Ugandans across the country are gearing up to bid farewell to 2024 and welcome 2025 with diverse celebrations.

From bustling urban centers to serene rural settings, the spirit of hope and renewal is palpable. We spoke to a cross-section of Ugandans to learn how they plan to celebrate New Year’s Eve and their aspirations for the coming year.

In Kampala, many are flocking to iconic spots like Kololo Independence Grounds and rooftop bars to watch the fireworks. For 28-year-old marketing executive Brenda Namuli, it’s a tradition she never misses.

“I’m heading to the city center with friends. Watching the fireworks light up the sky gives me such a hopeful feeling,” Brenda shares. “This year has been challenging, but I’m optimistic about 2025. I’m setting new goals for my career and family.”

For others, the New Year’s Eve celebrations are deeply spiritual. Churches across Uganda are hosting overnight prayers, also known as “crossovers,” where congregants thank God for the past year and pray for blessings in the new one.

“I’ll be at Miracle Centre Cathedral for the crossover service,” says 42-year-old businessman Paul Mukasa. “I want to dedicate the coming year to God. It’s a time to reflect and realign my priorities.”

At Gaddafi Mosque, 26-year-old university student Aisha Nankya plans to spend the evening in prayer. “For me, it’s about seeking guidance and strength for 2025. It’s not about loud celebrations but finding inner peace.”

In rural areas, families and neighbors come together for feasts and storytelling around bonfires. In Masaka, 60-year-old farmer Maria Nabitaka is hosting a large family gathering.

“We slaughtered a goat and prepared traditional dishes. It’s a chance to celebrate the gift of life with loved ones,” Maria says. “My hope for the new year is that we get good rains and higher crop prices.”

In Jinja, the Mukono youth group is throwing an ice cream party to mark the end of the year.

“We’ve been working hard to grow our small business, and tonight is about celebrating our achievements,” says group leader Joanita Ssebugwawo. “2025 will be about scaling up!”

For younger Ugandans, music and dance are integral to the festivities. Popular clubs and bars are hosting themed parties with live performances by local artists.

“I’m heading to a beach party at Entebbe,” says 23-year-old IT student Michael Odong. “The vibe there is unmatched, and it’s a great way to forget the year’s stress.”

While the celebrations differ, the common thread among Ugandans is the hope for a better year ahead. Whether it’s through prayer, family bonding, or partying, the mood is one of optimism and resilience.

As midnight approaches, the nation will pause to count down the final moments of 2024, ushering in 2025 with joy, determination, and dreams for a brighter future.