By Mulengera Reporters
Uganda’s film and television industry is set for a major boost after the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) unveiled 22 projects worth Shs1.377 billion under the third phase of its Content Development Support Programme (CDSP III).
The projects, spanning animation, documentaries, feature films, short films and television drama, were announced on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, during a Post-Uganda Film Festival (UFF) CEO Breakfast Meeting at UCC offices in Bugolobi, Kampala.
The meeting brought together industry leaders, government officials, development partners, broadcasters, platform operators and other stakeholders to discuss the future of Uganda’s audiovisual industry.
Coming shortly after the 13th Uganda Film Festival, the breakfast meeting also provided an opportunity for UCC to recognize organizations and partners whose support has contributed to the growth and promotion of Ugandan film.
Shs1.37 billion for 22 stories
The 22 selected projects represent a wide range of Ugandan stories and creative ideas.
The animation category has two projects: Gipir & Labongo: The Legend of the Spear and the Bread, by Denis Junior Dhikusooka, which will receive Shs20 million, and Black: Prodigal God Son, by Dean Mani, which will receive Shs30 million.
Seven documentaries will share substantial support. They include AFCON 2027 Uganda’s Olympic Legends by Julius Ddumba, funded at Shs55 million; Shadows and Lights by Daniel Komakech at Shs60 million; and The Guardians of the Wetland by Kahangye Kagwa at Shs35 million.
Other supported documentaries are Running: The Cheptegei Story by Rahma Remy Lubega, receiving Shs40 million; Seeds of Change – A Model Farmer’s Parish Development Model Journey by Denis Jjuuko at Shs42.25 million; The Vanishing Lifeline by Joram Ojungo at Shs62.5 million; and A Grain of Millet by Sister Dominic Dipio at Shs80 million.
Feature films take the largest share of the portfolio, with eight productions receiving support.
Under the Moon by Annet Aloyo, The Touch of Evil by Mathew Kavuma, Woman by Siraje Serunjogi, Nangiro by Ivan Mayatsa Makai and Vvawo Mpitewo by Charles Luzinda will each receive Shs80 million.
Christmas Spirit by Sinani Sentongo will receive Shs46.621 million, while Loops of Life by Alex Kakooza gets Shs75 million and They are us by Aisha Namawejje receives Shs70 million.
Three short films have also been selected. Lock Screen by Colman Otunga will receive Shs23.5 million, The Policy by Joshua Balikoowa gets Shs25 million, while Silently-Omusajja Takaaba by Julius Mutebi receives Shs20 million.
The television drama category includes The Love Equation (Ekibalo) by Charles James Senkubuge, which will receive Shs143 million, and Why I Love You (W.I.L.U) by Whitsaflicks UG LTD, funded at Shs149.676 million.
Altogether, the 22 projects have a combined budget of Shs1,377,547,000.
Partnerships driving the industry
Beyond announcing the projects, the CEO breakfast placed partnerships at the centre of Uganda’s efforts to develop a sustainable audiovisual industry.
UCC recognized organizations that have supported the Uganda Film Festival, regional film competitions, skills development, mentorship programmes and industry workshops.
Partners have also contributed to expanding access to Ugandan productions through cinemas and digital platforms, including MTN TV through AfroMobile, Pearl Magic and other online services.
MultiChoice Uganda, a CANAL+ company and Festival Champion at UFF 2026, was among the partners recognized.
Cinema operators Century Cinemax, NuMax Cinema and EMT Cinema were also acknowledged for providing platforms through which Ugandan productions can reach wider audiences.
The gathering brought together stakeholders from across the creative ecosystem, including policymakers, regulators, financiers, producers, broadcasters, distributors and technology companies.
From funding to the screen
For UCC, the new investment marks the beginning of another production cycle following the conclusion of UFF 2026.
The commission’s support is intended to help filmmakers move their projects from development into production and ultimately onto screens, while strengthening the market for locally produced content.
The initiative also reflects the broader effort to ensure that Ugandan stories are not only produced but also distributed and made accessible to audiences through cinemas, broadcasters and digital platforms.
With Shs1.377 billion committed to 22 productions, filmmakers, documentary producers, animators and television drama creators now have financial backing to take their projects to the next stage.
The challenge ahead will be turning the investment into compelling productions that can attract audiences at home and create opportunities for Uganda’s growing creative workforce. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
