The first-ever Abavandimwe Carnival, held on 3rd January 2026 at the Lugogo Cricket Oval, marked a historic moment in Uganda’s cultural landscape. The event, which opened its gates at midday, was a one-of-a-kind celebration bringing together people of Rwandan origin living in Uganda.

The carnival featured a vibrant all-white party theme, with colorful catwalk showcases and performances from various Rwandan cultural dance groups, highlighting Rwanda’s rich heritage and traditions.

The event was organized to unite Rwandans born in Uganda, those who have lived in Uganda most of their lives, and individuals with Rwandan ancestry collectively known as the Abavandimwe.

The ceremony was graced by His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who addressed long-standing concerns surrounding citizenship and national documentation. The President assured attendees that no one should be denied national identification cards or passports, noting that for years, many Abavandimwe had been told they were not Ugandan despite long-term residence.

“I want everybody to know that our long-term strategy on citizenship looks at the bigger picture. We are aiming at East African citizenship under the East African Federation,” President Museveni said.

He further emphasized that under the current framework, individuals who have legally lived in Uganda for a minimum of 10 years are eligible to apply for citizenship.

“If you have been here for 10 years and you apply for citizenship, you get it,” the President stressed.

One of the lead organizers, Frank Gashumba, said that since June last year, no one had been denied a passport. He encouraged members of the Abavandimwe community to obtain proper documentation from their LC1 chairpersons to facilitate passport processing.

Gashumba also called on the crowd to remain calm and peaceful and urged them to actively participate in the upcoming general elections scheduled for 15th January, emphasizing the importance of peaceful civic engagement.

The event opened with prayers led by Pastor Aloysius Bugingo, who asked God to bless and multiply the efforts and lives of everyone in attendance.

As the night progressed, the carnival turned into a musical spectacle, with performances from top Ugandan artists including Sheebah, Cindy, Ray G, Chameleone, Fik Gaza, Nador Love, Pastor Bugembe, among others. The celebrations culminated in a spectacular fireworks display at exactly midnight, bringing the historic carnival to a memorable close.