Kadodi Festival Unites Generations in a Celebration of Tradition

The rhythmic pulse of traditional drums filled the air at the UMA Show Grounds in Lugogo, Kampala, as the Bagisu community from Eastern Uganda brought their heritage to the heart of the city during the lively Kadodi Festival.

Traditionally performed as part of the Bagisu circumcision rites, the Kadodi dance is a sacred ritual marking the transition of boys into manhood.

At today’s festival, however, the dance took on a celebratory tone welcoming audiences from all backgrounds to witness and engage with this vibrant tradition. Performers dressed in colorful, symbolic attire, complete with beads, feathers, and floral crowns moved rhythmically to the steady beat of ceremonial drums.

Organized by the Bagisu Cultural Union, the festival was more than entertainment, it was a cultural mission. Its goal: to safeguard and promote the Kadodi tradition while fostering intercultural appreciation within Uganda’s capital.

Festival-goers, including tourists and Kampala locals, were visibly moved by the authenticity and power of the performance, many capturing the moment on their phones and posting it online with glowing praise.

Adding to the cultural feast were stalls offering traditional Bagisu foods and crafts, giving attendees a chance to taste and take home a piece of the culture. From handmade items to flavorful delicacies, the festival delivered a full sensory experience.