Event report
French Week 2025 Day 3: A Spirited Distillery Tour and a Gourmet Send-Off in Jinja
French Week 2025 ended in style with a scenic trip to Jinja, a distillery tour, spirit tastings, and a gourmet soirée overlooking the Nile.
As French Week 2025 gracefully drew to a close, its final chapter took participants on a vibrant cultural journey—one that began with a misty morning drive east of Kampala and ended in an evening of fine spirits, gourmet cuisine, and cross-cultural camaraderie.
The day began with a scenic detour through the Mabira Forest, where the group stopped at Rain Forest Lodge. Nestled beneath a lush green canopy, guests enjoyed a serene breakfast—an intimate prelude to the spirited agenda that lay ahead.
From there, the delegation continued to Kakira Distillery, one of Uganda’s premier producers of premium spirits. Located near the sugar plantations of Kakira, the facility is more than just a distillery—it’s a story of tradition, innovation, and global ambition. Visitors were taken through the plant’s rich history, learning how Kakira grew from modest origins into a multi-award-winning producer of Gin, Vodka, and Rum. The accolades are not just local; Kakira’s spirits are increasingly recognised on international shelves.
The factory tour offered a rare behind-the-scenes look into the delicate and disciplined art of distillation. From the dimly lit barrel-ageing cellars, guests observed how carefully aged oak imparts depth and character to the spirits. What stood out was the revelation that Kakira flies in a sommelier from the United States each year to ensure that quality remains consistent and competitive on the global stage.
But the real highlight? The tasting room.
Here, participants sampled some of Kakira’s most refined creations: a spiced rum, a bold gin, and an especially memorable coffee-flavoured vodka, which quickly became the group's favourite. Described by many as “like melting chocolate toffee on the tongue,” the vodka was a testament to the distillery’s craftsmanship and creativity.
Later in the day, the group reconvened at The Bridge Club House in Jinja for a closing gastronomic experience led by celebrated guest chef Gregory. What followed was an evening of culinary artistry. From delicate plating to surprising flavour combinations, Chef Gregory presented a menu that paid homage to both French technique and local ingredients, sophisticated yet warmly familiar.
The soirée unfolded with quiet elegance. Champagne flowed, conversations deepened, and the evening evolved into a vibrant networking affair. Business leaders, cultural ambassadors, and new acquaintances mingled beneath soft lights, united by a shared appreciation for excellence, culture, and connection.
None of it would have been possible without the support of the event’s partners. The French Chamber of Commerce Uganda extended heartfelt gratitude to its sponsors:
Ecobank, MTN MoMo, Total Energies Marketing, Canal Box Uganda, Grant Thornton Uganda, CFAO Mobility, Sheraton Hotel Kampala, OLEA Insurance Uganda, Rubis Energy Uganda, Crown Beverages, Karveli Food, Ruby Hospital, Nine Plus One Group, Swanair, Eurocargo, Netis Uganda, and CMA CGM. Their contributions brought to life an unforgettable week celebrating French culture and Ugandan collaboration.
From the inaugural press conference to the final toast in Jinja, French Week 2025 was a celebration of partnership, heritage, and possibility.
As the final glasses were raised, one sentiment echoed through the crowd: À bientôt—until next time.
You can relive the magic and watch the highlights here.
