Table of Contents
The air inside the Red Cross Main Hall in Kyangwali was thick with more than just the heat of a January afternoon; it was charged with the electric anticipation of hundreds of young souls waiting for their moment. On January 4, 2026, the One Dream One Stage SOLFA Festival transformed a refugee settlement into a world-class arena of creativity, proving that while a home can be temporary, a dream is an immovable force.
Organized by SOLFA Africa, the event was a vibrant tapestry of cultures, bringing together South Sudanese, Congolese, and Rwandese youth in a rare moment of unified celebration to witness the transformative power of the arts in one of Uganda’s most diverse settings.
What is the significance of the One Dream One Stage SOLFA Festival?
The festival was not merely a talent show; it was a strategic intervention designed by SOLFA Africa to promote creativity, unity, and professional talent development among refugee youth. For many in the Kyangwali Refugee Settlement, opportunities to showcase their skills to a wider audience are rare. The festival provided a high-visibility platform for upcoming artists to bridge the gap between “hidden talent” and “recognized excellence.”
The objectives were clear: to inspire youths to believe in the validity of their dreams and to strengthen community engagement through Music, Dance, and Drama (MDD). By providing a stage for these performers, SOLFA is effectively building a self-sustainable creative economy within the settlement—one where art serves as both a therapeutic outlet and a potential career path.
Influential Voices Leading the Kyangwali Youth
The festival featured a lineup of speakers who brought both local expertise and global perspectives to the stage:
- Dr. Martha Lukoosi Peace: A distinguished voice of inspiration, Dr. Lukoosi shared a powerful message centered on resilience. Known for her work in peace-building and community health, she challenged the youth to look beyond their current circumstances and recognize their potential as leaders of tomorrow.
- John Kenny Adeya: Serving as the Chief Guest, digital strategist and journalist John Kenny Adeya delivered a simple but profound message: “Your dreams are valid.” Drawing from his extensive experience in building media from the ground up, he emphasized that narrative-changing stories start with the courage to speak up.
- Pierre Mulindi: As the Operations Officer of SOLFA Africa, Pierre is the engine room of the organization. Showcasing a family dedicated to social impact, Pierre’s leadership on the ground ensures that SOLFA’s vision is executed with precision.
- Fabris Mulindi: Though currently completing his studies in the United States, Fabris remains the visionary behind the movement. His ability to maintain a self-sustainable, highly effective team in Kyangwali while thousands of miles away is a testament to his organizational leadership and dedication to social entrepreneurship.
The Faces of Kyangwali’s Creative Future
Of all the performers, one young gentleman stood out with remarkable vigor: a Sudanese rapper known as John Cee. Blending the raw energy of South Sudanese rhythmic influences with modern hip-hop, he carried himself with a pride and professional swagger that commanded the stage. He represents a generation of refugee artists who are not seeking pity, but rather an audience for their undeniable talent.
The stage also saw incredible performances from athletic, synchronized Hip-Hop Dancers and powerful debaters like Samuel Usabuwera, proving that the skills of articulation and critical thinking are thriving in Kyangwali.
The Standout Winners of the 2026 Festival.
The festival concluded with a colorful awards ceremony, recognizing the crème de la crème of Kyangwali’s creative talent:
- Best Music Performer: Jockly
- Best Comedy Performer: Maria Rosa
- Best Debater: Sunday Amon
- Best Dance Performers: Hip-Hop Dancers
- Top Comedy Group: Mad Family
- Top Dancing Group: Show Group / Winners Group
- Top Singing Groups: Happy Boyz / Lystra Music / The Bees
- Standout Single Artists: Joka Fortune / Bembe Boy / CK Claizzy
Why SOLFA Africa Matters for Uganda’s Future
As the sun set over the Red Cross hall, the smiles on the faces of the attendees told the real story. SOLFA Africa is doing more than just organizing events; they are providing a sense of agency to young people who have often been defined only by their “refugee” status. By empowering these youth, SOLFA is ensuring that the next generation of leaders in East Africa is equipped with the confidence, connections, and creative skills to build a better world. The One Dream One Stage Festival was a resounding success, setting a high bar for the future of creative empowerment in the region.
