Ekyooto ha Mpango Festival comes to an end
The vibrant Ekyooto Ha Mpango Festival came to a lively conclusion in Fort Portal town, leaving attendees with unforgettable memories from a weekend packed with entertainment and culture. Organized by Talent Africa Group, the festival celebrates the rich heritage and culture of the Tooro Kingdom, while also promoting tourism and fostering community unity.
The event reached its peak at Buhinga Stadium on the final day. While the crowd was sparse early on, the atmosphere transformed by 11 p.m. as the venue filled up, with VIP seats occupied and the general section bursting with energy. By 1 a.m., the stadium was packed to capacity, with partygoers enjoying performances until the early hours of 3:30 a.m.
The main event featured stellar performances from Tooro's own talents, such as Muzamir Ayesiga, Holly Treemy, Big Doug, and Tai-Tan, with folk artist Brian Alideki adding a traditional touch. DJ Mark of NBS kept the energy high with an eclectic mix of rarely-heard songs that had the crowd dancing non-stop.
At 2 a.m., the excitement surged as local star Beenie Gunter took the stage, delivering a unique set that combined freestyling with hits like Tubayo, Olina Work, and Sekkle Down. Following Gunter, the legendary trio Blu*3 – Cindy, Jackie Chandiru, and Lilian Mbabazi – performed together for the first time since their recent reunion, captivating the crowd with their classic songs like Hitaji, Mutima, and Ndayila. They even greeted King Oyo and the Queen Mother in a memorable moment of the night.
Fik Fameica closed out the performances with his infectious energy, sampling hits like Majje, Buligita, and Mafia, thrilling the already electrified crowd.
The festival, held as part of King Oyo’s 29th coronation ceremonies, featured more than just musical performances. A cultural fashion gala showcased Tooro’s top designers, including Amavis Fashions, Braxity Fashions, and Nyamata Collections, blending traditional styles with contemporary flair.
The Queen Mother Best Kemigisa graced the event as the guest of honor, with other notable attendees including Tourism Minister Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, Talent Africa Group CEO Aly Alibhai, and prominent figures from Uganda’s entertainment and cultural scene.
With its successful blend of culture, music, and fashion, the Ekyooto Ha Mpango Festival has solidified its place as a must-attend event in the celebration of Tooro’s heritage.