Interview with the founder: Faisal Kiwewa
Adlam (2ndR) and Wiedmann (R) give instructions to actors during a rehearsal of Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing at Nsambya Sharing Hall recently. It will be staged on October 2-5 at the National Theatre. Photos by Michael Kakumirizi
When did Bayimba start and how were the first years?
The Bayimba foundation was started in 2006, officially incorporated in 2007, and the festival started in 2008. The major aim was to get a platform focusing on collaborating and exchange of artistes. We also wanted to expose our art to the outside world.
What challenges have you faced in the last seven years of organising the festival?
We always strive to communicate with the public by bringing awareness to them but due to some difficulties like funding, we are unable to do so.
Currently, Kampala Capital City Authority does not allow outdoor advertising so the remaining options like media adverts are expensive, which affects our budget.
How do you overcome all those challenges?
I try to be on top of the game by diversifying our sources of funding and acquiring more people on board to reduce on the burden of the foundation’s work.
What has been Bayimba’s role in the Uganda arts industry?
It has really transformed into the signature festival in Uganda and regionally. It has been the centre for consistence because we make sure it happens every year so arts personalities trust us, thus exposing their creativity on the festival which also motivates us to build the brand higher.
What is your comparison of Bayimba to other regional festivals?
Bayimba is not the best, but at least we are privileged to beat others because ours is cheap and its concept is multidisciplinary.
I look up to Bush Farm Festival in Swaziland, Sauti za Bushara, Kigali Up, Cape Town Jazz Festival, Timitar Festival in Morocco among others.
