BAYIMBA INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS 2026
28^th–30^th August 2026 | Lunkulu Island, Uganda

We are excited to welcome you to the 18th edition of the Bayimba International Festival of the Arts. Your time and energy as an artist help shape the heart of this festival. This guide provides essential details to help you prepare for your stay and contribute meaningfully to the festival’s success.

ABOUT THE FESTIVAL  

Since its founding in 2008, the Bayimba International Festival of the Arts has grown into East Africa’s leading multidisciplinary arts event. Organized by the Bayimba Cultural Foundation, the festival brings together artists, cultural leaders, and communities from around the world for three days of music, dance, film, theater, visual arts, and creative exchange. Hosted on the scenic Lunkulu Island, the event is a celebration of culture, sustainability, and human connection.

LUNKULU ISLAND EXPERIENCE  

Lunkulu Island, nestled between Mukono and Buikwe districts on Lake Victoria, offers an eco-friendly setting surrounded by nature. Expect warm daytime weather, cooler nights and occasional rain, with rustic open-air spaces for performances and interaction.

Please come prepared for diverse weather and terrain.

SAFEGUARDING AND CODE OF CONDUCT

Bayimba Cultural Foundation is committed to providing a safe, respectful, inclusive, and harassment-free environment for all participants, staff, volunteers, and audience members.

• Zero-Tolerance: Bullying, sexual harassment, abuse, discrimination, or exploitation of any kind will not be tolerated.
• Child and Vulnerable Adult Protection: All staff, volunteers, and participating artists must maintain appropriate professional boundaries with minors and vulnerable participants at all times.
• Reporting and Incident Handling: If you experience or witness any safeguarding breach, behavior that makes you feel uncomfortable, or a safety violation, report it immediately to the on-site Bayimba Safeguarding Officer or a designated staff member. All reports are handled with confidentiality, urgency and respect.

ACCOMMODATION

(This will be in accordance with your artist contract as previously shared).

Bayimba will provide:

• A tent and mattress at the festival grounds which will be provided by the festival organisers.

Artists are requested to bring:

• Warm bedding (e.g. sleeping bag, thick blanket) for cold nights  
• Comfortable clothing  for both daytime heat and evening chill  
• Waterproof or canvas shoes for uneven/rainy terrain  
• Closed-toe shoes for working shifts and walking  
• Towel, flashlight/headlamp, and personal toiletries

Note: There are shared washing areas and basic facilities on-site.

TRANSPORTATION  

For any transport needs, the following mobile apps are helpful:

Let us know if you need help coordinating movement around town or navigating boat transit to Lunkulu Island—we’re happy to assist.

HEALTH & SAFETY  

Your health and physical safety are top priorities throughout the festival:

• A medical and first-aid team will be stationed on-site continuously.
• Artists with allergies, chronic conditions, or specific medical needs must carry necessary medications and inform the festival team in advance.
• Carry insect repellent and consider taking malaria prophylaxis as advised by your medical provider.
• Yellow Fever Vaccination: A valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory upon entry into Uganda for international travelers.
• Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covers medical emergencies and is strongly recommended for international participants.

VISA & ENTRY  

(For International Artists)

• Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry.
• e-Visa: Apply and obtain your visa online prior to travel via the official portal: immigration.go.ug.

COMMUNICATION & CURRENCY 

(For International Artists)

• SIM Cards: Local SIM cards (MTN / Airtel) are affordable and available upon presenting your passport.
• Connectivity: Mobile data networks are significantly more reliable on Lunkulu Island than Wi-Fi.
• Currency: Ugandan Shillings (UGX) cash is necessary for most island transactions.
• USD Exchange: USD cash notes must be crisp and dated 2013 or newer to be accepted by banks and forex bureaus in Uganda.
• ATMs: Withdraw local currency at ATMs in Entebbe or Kampala before heading to Lunkulu Island.

KEY CONTACTS

We’re honored to have you join us at Bayimba 2026. Should you have any questions or need assistance while preparing your trip, don’t hesitate to reach out. We look forward to welcoming you to Lunkulu Island for an unforgettable experience in creativity and community!