By Mulengera Reporters
Uganda’s vibrant film industry took centre stage as filmmakers from across the Central Region gathered in Luweero for the regional edition of the Uganda Film Festival (UFF) Regional Film Competitions (RFC), an initiative of the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) in partnership with MultiChoice Uganda. The event was graced by the Guest of Honor Hon. Alice Kaboyo, State Minister for Luwero Triangle and Rwenzori Affairs.
The Central Region competition attracted 37 participants, reflecting the growing interest in storytelling and film production across the region. The entries explored a wide range of themes including culture, identity, social justice, and contemporary social issues affecting Ugandan communities.
Among the standout productions of the evening was the powerful social impact film “NO/Nedda,” which emerged as the biggest winner of the night, earning multiple awards for its compelling storytelling and strong community-focused message. The film won Best Film, Best Community/Impactful Film, and Best Actor, with Bugaba Clinton Cyrus taking home the Best Actor accolade for his performance in the production.
Speaking at the awards gala, Ms Julianne Muheirwe, Director Economic Regulation, Content and Consumer Affairs, UCC highlighted the importance of decentralizing opportunities available.
“When we launched the regional film competitions in 2023, our goal was to intentionally bring opportunities closer to creatives across the country and ensure that talented filmmakers in places like Luweero feel just as much a part of Uganda’s film industry as those in Kampala. Having watched the films today, the quality of storytelling and creativity we have witnessed is a strong reminder that great talent exists in every region of Uganda,” she expressed.
The partnership between MultiChoice Uganda and UCC reflects a shared commitment to advancing Uganda’s creative economy by creating platforms where local storytellers can develop their craft and gain industry exposure.
Brian Mulondo, Local Content Marketing Manager, MultiChoice Uganda, emphasized the importance of platforms such as the regional competitions in strengthening the country’s creative industry.
“Uganda’s film industry continues to grow because of the incredible stories being told by local filmmakers across the country. Competitions like these allow us to discover powerful voices from different regions and support them in reaching wider audiences. By supporting platforms such as the Uganda Film Festival, we are helping to nurture talent and create opportunities for filmmakers to share stories that resonate with Ugandan audiences and beyond,” he said.
During the awards ceremony, the winners won up to UGX. 15,000,000 from UCC, which MultiChoice Uganda complemented by awarding UGX 1 million to the Best Film winner, UGX 500,000 for Best Smartphone Film Award, UGX 500,000 for Best Student Award, and UGX500,000 for Best Community/Impactful Film, alongside MultiChoice-branded gifts.
Beyond celebrating winning films, the event also served as an important networking platform where filmmakers, producers, actors, and industry stakeholders could connect, exchange ideas, and explore opportunities for collaboration. The competition featured seasoned industry professionals who facilitated the workshops, guided participants throughout the competition and judged the films.
The competitions, which are part of the broader Uganda Film Festival programme, aim to identify and celebrate emerging film talent from across the country while creating opportunities for regional filmmakers to showcase their work and compete on a national stage.
As the regional competitions continue across other regions in Arua and Hoima, MultiChoice Uganda remains dedicated to working with industry partners to strengthen Uganda’s film ecosystem and create opportunities for local stories to thrive. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
