Watoto Church has set the stage for what it calls the “tallest, biggest Christmas ever” as final preparations intensify for its annual Christmas Cantata 2025.
The church’s towering Christmas tree, erected at Old Kampala Senior Secondary School, measures 20 metres wide and 20 metres high, promising a spectacular visual centrepiece for the city’s festive celebrations.
Speaking ahead of the event, Pastor Brian Abaho, Creative Team Leader at Watoto Church, highlighted the unique scale and unity the celebration aims to bring. “Imagine a massive choir of different churches joining together in one voice to uplift the city of Kampala. It will be a unique sound, unlike anything the city has heard before,” Pastor Abaho said.
He explained that the Christmas Carol Night on Wednesday, December 17, will launch the five-day Cantata celebrations. “The program includes two hours of beautifully arranged music, featuring the Watoto Children’s Choir, and will culminate in the lighting of the Christmas tree. Beyond the music, this event demonstrates unity. We all have a role to play in building our city and nation, pursuing God’s vision together.”
Over 1,300 volunteers from Watoto Church, drawn from its 18 campuses across Kampala and Juba, South Sudan, will manage logistics, child care, seating, and safety. “Our production team follows industry-standard procedures for lighting, sound, and staging to deliver a top-quality experience,” Pastor Abaho added.
Pastor Julius Rwotlonyo, Senior Pastor and Team Leader at Watoto Church Ministries, emphasised the Cantata’s spirit of giving. “On Carol Night, attendees will have the opportunity to contribute offerings that will support babies’ homes. This event allows the city to join us in blessing five babies’ homes across Kampala,” he said.
Security and safety are key priorities. Pastor Rwotlonyo said, “We desire to create a safe and joyful experience for every person who attends this year’s Cantata. With strong support from the Uganda Police and other city authorities, we are confident that everyone will enjoy attending Christmas Cantata with peace and ease.”
The Uganda Police Force confirmed its support, with Kampala Metropolitan Police PR Officer Luke Owoyesigyire stating, “We are committed to working with Watoto Church to ensure that all events are secure and peaceful. Our teams will be on the ground throughout the Cantata to provide safety, guide traffic, and support the public wherever needed.”
To facilitate movement, SafeBoda will provide discounted rides, according to Mukooli Calvin, Brand, Events and Activations at SafeBoda.
Karis Medical will deliver health services throughout the five-day event. “We’re providing UGX 50 million in-kind services for the five-day event. Our medical staff will be on site daily for first aid, health consultations, and wellness support,” said Andy Kristian Agaba, CEO of Karis Medical.
The Cantata, running from December 17 to 22, will include the Inter-Church Carols Night, the lighting of Uganda’s tallest Christmas tree, and the “Son of God” Cantata production.
Gates open at 2:00 pm, with performances beginning at 8:00 pm. Entry is free, and the church has warned the public against fraudsters selling tickets.
Pastor Rwotlonyo said, “Many things divide us, but Jesus unites us. This Cantata is going to be beautiful—it’s bringing together different churches and artists to sing Christmas carols and celebrate the birth of Jesus.”
With thousands expected to attend, Watoto Church has assured the public of a safe, well-organised, and family-friendly celebration that promises to be memorable, uplifting, and a first-of-its-kind spectacle for the city of Kampala.
