Nyege Nyege hangs in balance as UK advises against traveling to Jinja
The festival is a significant economic driver for the region, benefiting local tourism, hospitality, and various businesses.
The renowned Nyege Nyege Festival, celebrated for its fusion of music, art, and culture, has hit an unexpected snag. With its allure drawing international crowds year after year, the festival faces a challenging predicament after the UK government issued a travel advisory warning against traveling to Jinja town, Uganda, the much-anticipated location for the event.
Nyege Nyege, which translates to “the irresistible urge to dance” in Luganda, is a gathering of diverse musical genres and global cultures.
It has become a pilgrimage for music lovers, artists, and enthusiasts, transcending borders and celebrating unity through the universal language of music.
“FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Jinja Town. There is a growing terror threat in Uganda, including targeting of foreigners. You should avoid large gatherings, including large scale worship, and music and cultural festivals in Uganda.On 17 October there was an attack in Queen Elizabeth National Park in Western Uganda resulting in three fatalities,” reads the advisory
Nyege Nyege will happen for four days from Thursday November 9 to Sunday November 12 across 7 stages.
Upon the invitation of the Mayor of Jinja and the Jinja City Council, Nyege Nyege will take place on three conjoined sites along the Nile River: The Jinja Golf Course, Source of the Nile and the Jinja Showground.
With over 300 hotels, the city has enough accommodation for all budgets for all guests just minutes away from the venue.
How it may affect the festival
Dwindling International Presence: A significant portion of Nyege Nyege’s attendees are foreigners, adding an international flavor to the event. The advisory threatens to deter many revelers, potentially leading to a sharp decline in international attendance.
Altered Artist Lineup: The festival boasts a diverse lineup featuring both local and international artists. With the advisory in place, the presence of foreign musicians is in question.
The festival is a significant economic driver for the region, benefiting local tourism, hospitality, and various businesses. A notable drop in international visitors could spell financial hardship for these local enterprises.
