Ugandans in London lit up 63 years of Independence with all-night celebrations
By Chipo Sabeta
It was a cool autumn evening in East London, but inside the community hall on Ripple Road, the atmosphere was pure sunshine. The red, yellow, and black of the Ugandan flag draped the walls and floors, and Afrobeat mixed with the deep rhythm of kadodi drums shook the hall.
Ugandans from all over the UK had come together to celebrate 63 years of independence.
The hall was packed. Ladies shimmered in party outfits and other wore kitenge dresses, their smiles as bright as the sequins on their sleeves. Men wore kanzus, while others sported T-shirts and jerseys inscribed with “Proudly Ugandan” or “Born in Kampala”
Food and drinks galore
The scent of home hung in the air food steaming in silver trays, spicy pilau bubbling, and nyama choma sizzling on the outdoor grill. It was truly food and drinks galore , a colourful showcase of African and Ugandan dishes that brought everyone together. Guests feasted on luwombo, katogo and beans, and groundnut sauce. Every bite and sip carried the familiar taste of home, reminding many of family gatherings back in Kampala.
The national anthem began to play. Everyone stood still hands over hearts, eyes glistening. For a few moments, Barking transformed into Kampala.
After the anthem, the MC thanked the diaspora community for keeping Ugandan culture alive abroad.
Maro Gatsinzi, one of the event organisers, shared what the celebration meant to her as an African in the disapora:
“This was more than just a party. It was a moment to acknowledge and remember Uganda’s independence. Even though we’re far from home, nights like this remind us where we come from and what connects us.”
Music Entertainment (DJs and live performances)
Then came the real party. The DJ Shady, Dy Nector dropped hits from Eddy Kenzo, Sheebah, and Azawi. The dance floor filled instantly heels off, drinks in hand, people moving freely.
The energy hit another level when Jose Chameleone took to the stage. His electrifying performance packed with classics like Valu Valu and Wale Wale sent the crowd into a frenzy. Chameleone’s stage presence, and unmatched energy left the audience completely wowed, proving once again why he remains one of Uganda’s music legends.
Diaspora Insurance sponsorship
The event was made possible with the support of Diaspora Insurance, one of the sponsors. Their team was there celebrating alongside everyone and showing real commitment to the Ugandan community abroad. Many guests stopped by their table to chat, take photos, and learn more about how they support families both in the UK and back home.
Gatsinzi said, “Diaspora insurance are our all-weather partners, and we are happy to with them in the Africa diaspora community.”
By midnight, the hall was glowing with joy. People toasted with glasses of Ugandan gin and soda, singing along to Tukwatagane and Sweet Banana until morning.
Outside, the London night was cold and quiet. But inside that Barking Hall, it was pure Uganda warm, loud, proud, and full of flavour.
🇺🇬 Happy 63rd Independence, Uganda!
