Uganda’s newest cultural and tourism event, the Routes & Roots Festival, has officially been unveiled, with organisers promising a unique blend of music, culture, adventure and tourism unlike anything the country has seen before.
Launched at Motiv in Kampala by festival founder Timothy Ochen, the event is expected to take place from October 29 to 31, 2026 at Lake Saaka Recreation Center in Fort Portal.
According to organisers, the festival is not just about entertainment but also about reconnecting people to culture, identity and tourism experiences.
“We want to bring people back to their roots,” Ochen said during the launch.
“It is not just a concert, it is so much more than that. It is adventure.”
He explained that Fort Portal was chosen as the first destination because of its strong blend of culture, tourism and natural beauty, adding that future editions of the festival will rotate across different regions of Uganda.
“There is a lot to experience in Fort Portal beyond its natural beauty and cuisines. We want people to experience what they haven’t experienced before,” he said.
The three-day festival will feature three stages across the venue, with different talents expected to perform and showcase their craft each day. Music, dance, storytelling, art, food, cultural exhibitions and tourism experiences are all expected to form part of the festival.
Among those who attended the launch were comedian Amooti Omubalanguzi and musicians Nutty Neithan and Green Daddy, who were also confirmed among the performers for the festival.
Organisers, however, said these are only the first names, with many more performers and creatives expected to be announced.
The launch was also graced by Joan Kantu, Tourism Minister for the Tooro Kingdom, Amusolo Pauline Leizel and media personality Isaac Rucci, who joined discussions on how music, tourism and culture can be blended to create meaningful experiences.
Joan Kantu welcomed the initiative, saying another major cultural event would benefit the Tooro region.
“We have one major festival that happens every year in Fort Portal called Ekyoto Ha Mpago that goes on for one week, so another cultural festival isn’t bad for the region,” she said.
Meanwhile, Pauline Leizel said the festival presents an opportunity for Gen Z and Gen Alpha audiences to connect with culture in a modern and enjoyable way.
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