Social and Cultural Festival for Sudanese Refugees in Uganda

Culture has the power to unite, heal, and inspire communities—especially in times of hardship and displacement. On Saturday, 14 September 2024, Future Stars Center organized a vibrant Social and Cultural Festival in Kampala, Uganda, bringing together Sudanese refugees from diverse backgrounds to celebrate heritage, creativity, and resilience.

The festival drew an audience of approximately 1,000 people, representing the rich cultural mosaic of Sudan. It was designed as a response to the social and emotional challenges faced by Sudanese refugees in Uganda, aiming to bridge cultural divides, foster community bonds, and create an inclusive space for dialogue and expression.

Highlights of the event included:

• Showcasing Sudanese heritage and folk arts, preserving traditions while sharing them with a wider audience.

• Supporting creative talent among youth and children, with performances, art displays, and workshops that encouraged self-expression and skill development.

• Providing psychosocial support by creating a joyful and safe environment where individuals could connect, share experiences, and find emotional relief.

The festival also played a key role in alleviating trauma within the community, offering a sense of belonging and hope in the midst of displacement. Performances, cultural exhibitions, and interactive activities allowed attendees to reconnect with their roots while building new friendships in their host country.

Several local councils, including Kaboso, Kabalaqala, Kwame, and Makari, were actively involved in the event, ensuring broad participation from different refugee settlements.

Through initiatives like this, Future Stars Center continues to affirm its commitment to empowering refugees, preserving cultural identity, and promoting healing through creativity and community engagement.