The annual Nyege Nyege festival has taken place despite its attempted ban.

The State Minister for Ethics and Integrity, Fr. Simon Lokodo issued a statement through on Tuesday 3^rd September 2018, indicating that the planned annual festival wouldn't take place, because it has been turned into an orgy on previous occasions. The minister instructed the Inspector General of Police to put a stop to the Nyege Nyege festival that was scheduled for 7^th to 9^th September at the Nile Discovery Beach on the banks of River Nile in Jinja Town.

Nyege Nyege is a music festival that brings together several musicians, artistes, dance troupes and participants from all over the world.

In the statement, the minister called the festival an immoral gathering that goes against Ugandan values. Fr. Lokodo said that in the past, Nyege Nyege has been found to promote Lesbianism, Gay, Bi-sexual, Transgender and Intersexual- LGBTI activities, which are illegal in Uganda.

However less than a day after, the minister changed stance and said the reservations that his ministry had were resolved in a meeting with organizers and other government agencies.

A memorandum of understanding was signed between government officials and Nyege Nyege organizers, represented by Mr Ali Alibhai, and it was agreed that upon that moral values would be upheld, and anyone found in breach was liable for punishment by the law.

The festival that started on 7^th September, came to a close on Sunday, and a word from many is that it has been an experience to remember. “I am having the time of my life here, I wish this could be more frequent,” said Nina Ogoki. “The music is amazing, the ‘deejays' are delivering beyond expected,” said Emma Mwangi, a participant from Kenya.

The Nyege Nyege festival is sponsored by Giant Telecommunications network, MTN, and Nile Breweries, among others.