Uganda’s marketing and communications industry is gearing up for a major boost as the Uganda Advertising Association (UAA) unveils the Silverback Creative Week, a six-day celebration of creativity, innovation and professional growth set to run from November 10 to 15, 2025 in Kampala.
Themed “Elevating the Grind,” the week-long event seeks to push Uganda’s creative economy to new frontiers by blending learning, competition and recognition for outstanding work in advertising, marketing, design and digital storytelling.
“Our ambition is to position Uganda as a creative powerhouse in the region,” said Rommel Jasi, Chairperson of the UAA. “Silverback Week is not just about awards, it is about equipping our people with the mindset, networks and skills to compete at a continental and global level.”
The Silverback Creative Week, organised in partnership with The Loeries Africa and Middle East, features a rich line-up of activities including the Young Silverback Competition, the Communications Industry Symposium and the grand Silverback Awards Gala.
The Young Silverback Competition (Nov 10–12) will spotlight emerging talent under 30 years old who will work on real-world creative briefs within tight deadlines. Winners will receive mentorship placements and medals, a move aimed at nurturing the next generation of creative leaders.
The Communications Symposium (Nov 14) will convene senior industry figures, among them Kin Kariisa (CEO Next Media), Hilda Karamagi, David Galukande and Herbert Opio, to share insights on leadership, brand storytelling and the future of marketing. The week will climax with the Silverback Awards Gala on Nov 15, honouring excellence across advertising, PR, film, digital media, and social-impact campaigns.
UAA says Silverback Week draws inspiration from international festivals such as the Loeries and Cannes Lions, aiming to embed world class standards in Uganda’s creative landscape.
“The time has come for African creativity to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best in the world,” Jasi added. “We are challenging agencies, brands, and young creatives to produce work that is both culturally authentic and globally relevant.”
Industry analysts say the event could help reposition Uganda’s marketing sector from a service-based function to a strategic business driver. It is expected to strengthen collaboration between agencies, brands, academia and regulators and to spotlight how creative work can fuel economic growth.
“For years, we’ve had talent and passion,” said one marketing consultant. “Now, through Silverback Week, we’re building the structure and visibility needed to commercialise creativity and make it a serious contributor to GDP.”
Tickets for the event are available at UGX 250,000 for UAA members, UGX 300,000 for non-members and UGX 100,000 for students. Tables for the Awards Gala start at UGX 3 million.
UAA officials say preparations are in high gear, with registrations already underway for both the competition and symposium sessions.