NUMMELA, Vihti, Finland – The East African Gospel Tour,
under the leadership of Pr. Samson Bukenya, is set to arrive in Finland this
August for a vibrant 10-day musical exchange. The tour will culminate in the
highly anticipated Valofestarit (Valo Festival), a free, family-friendly gospel
music festival taking place on August 8, 2026, at the Nummela town square in
Vihti.
From August 3 to 12, 2026, Pr. Bukenya and his ensemble will
perform at various events across Western Uusimaa. The centerpiece of the tour
is Valofestarit, which promises an evening of powerful worship and community
celebration. Organizers have expressed their excitement about hosting the East
African group, with Pastor Timo Kulta stating, "We are absolutely thrilled
to welcome our East African brothers and sisters—especially Pr. Samson Bukenya
and his team—and to share this joyful experience with our entire
community."
Translating to "Festival of Light", Valofestarit is designed to be more than just a concert; it is envisioned as a radiant bridge connecting cultures, generations, and communities. Organizers anticipate a jubilant gathering of locals, expatriates, and visitors alike, united under a shared banner of hope, praise, and spiritual renewal. The festival will feature a rich tapestry of East African gospel anthems, interspersed with local Finnish worship, creating a unique sonic landscape that celebrates the universality of the Christian faith.
Pastor Timo Kulta, a key organizer and representative of the
Free Church of Vihti, expressed profound enthusiasm for the upcoming
collaboration. "We are absolutely thrilled to welcome our East African
brothers and sisters—especially Pr. Samson Bukenya and his team—and to share
this joyful experience with our entire community," he stated. "This
exchange is a testament to the global body of Christ and the power of music to
transcend borders."
Pr. Samson Bukenya, known across Uganda and beyond for his
fervent ministry and musical prowess, also shared his anticipation for the
tour. "We are carrying a message of light and transformation to Finland.
We believe that as we lift our voices together, walls will come down, and the
love of God will be felt powerfully in Vihti," he remarked ahead of the
journey.
With hundreds of attendees expected to converge on the Nummela town square, Valofestarit is poised to become a landmark event in the Finnish gospel calendar. The Free Church of Vihti and ViaDia have extended a warm invitation to the wider community, urging families, friends, and gospel enthusiasts to come out and witness a night of divine light, soulful music, and unforgettable fellowship. This cultural and spiritual exchange is not just a tour—it is a celebration of the unifying power of the Gospel across continents




