Uganda celebrates Christmas with towering tree, carols, and artisan market

Hundreds in Kampala celebrate Christmas with festive markets showcasing local crafts and a 21-meter tree lighting ceremony filled with carols and prayers.

Leon Kigozi and Mukelwa Hlatshwayo

30 December 2025 at 08:43:49

People gather at the market, where vendors display Christmas merchandise, ahead of the holiday season along Namirembe road in downtown Kampala, Uganda December 24, 2025. REUTERS/Abubaker Lubowa

Abubaker Lubowa

Hundreds of people have gathered in Uganda’s capital, Kampala, to celebrate Christmas at various events across the city.

At the Christmas Artisan Market, families shopped for locally made products, including jewellery, shea butter creams, and wire-and-bead crafts. Founder of the market, Rosa Malango, said the market aimed to promote local entrepreneurship during the festive season.

Elsewhere in the city, a 21-meter Christmas tree was lit at the Old Kampala Secondary School grounds, drawing large crowds for carols and prayers. Religious leaders, including Pastor Brian Abaho, led the celebrations, which focused on family and faith.

-Leon Kigozi and Mukelwa Hlatshwayo