The beats are back, and the excitement is palpable as Africa’s essential music and arts festival, Nyege Nyege, prepares to make its triumphant return for the 8th edition. Set to unfold over four unforgettable days, from Thursday, November 9th to Sunday, November 12th, 2023, this year’s festival promises a unique experience in an exciting new location.
A Scenic Playground Along the Nile River
In a groundbreaking move, Nyege Nyege has accepted the invitation of the Mayor of Jinja and the Jinja City Council, leading to the festival’s relocation to three conjoined sites along the picturesque Nile River. The festival will sprawl across the sprawling Jinja Golf Course, the iconic Source of the Nile, and the dynamic Jinja Showground. With over 300 hotels within the city, festival-goers can find accommodation to suit all budgets just minutes away from the venue.
A Global Showcase of African Music
Nyege Nyege has earned its reputation as the vanguard of new sounds emerging from the African continent, hosting over 500 shows internationally. It’s widely considered the greatest showcase of traditional and contemporary African music globally, attracting music enthusiasts and industry leaders alike to discover new genres, breakthrough artists, and burgeoning talents.
While the festival’s full lineup will be unveiled in September, attendees can expect an array of East Africa’s most exciting new acts, alongside artists hailing from musical powerhouses like Nigeria, South Africa, and Brazil. The diverse styles and genres on display will encompass the rich tapestry of African sounds, ranging from South African amapiano to Nigerian cruise beat, afrobeats to gengetone, dancehall, singeli, soukous, and much more. Nyege Nyege promises to be a treat for the ears, mind, soul, and body.
A Vision for the Best Festival Yet
Mr. Aly Allibhai, the Chief Executive Officer of Talent Africa Group and one of the event’s organizers, announced the festival’s dates, emphasizing their commitment to making this edition the “best festival” yet. The event will span approximately 50 acres, encompassing the Source of the Nile, Jinja Showgrounds, Jinja Golf Course, and the Source Gardens.
Speaking to journalists, Mr. Derek Debru, the co-founder and creative director of Nyege Nyege, explained the choice of November for the festival, noting that it allows for smoother planning, including artist bookings. He stressed that the priority was to ensure an impeccable experience, with excellent music, a safe environment, and a sense of community over the four days of the festival.
A Promise of Stability and Progress
Mr. Darius Nandinda, the RCC Jinja City, reassured the public that the 2023 Nyege Nyege festival would not face the cancellations that marred past editions. In recent years, concerns were raised about the event’s impact on social morality, leading to calls for its cancellation. However, last year, the government, led by Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, gave the green light after organizers pledged to maintain a safe and respectful atmosphere throughout the celebration.
As the festival’s return approaches, anticipation is building among music enthusiasts and festival-goers, who eagerly await the unveiling of the complete lineup. With its new venue along the banks of the Nile River and a commitment to excellence, Nyege Nyege 2023 promises to be an extraordinary chapter in the festival’s illustrious history, celebrating the vibrancy of African music and arts like never before.
