By Guest Writer
Uganda’s creative economy is entering a new era shaped by investments in digital infrastructure, new skilling programs and strong collaboration between the government and private sector partners. This transformation was at the heart of Episode 9 of The Ugandan Podcast, convened by the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance together with MultiChoice Uganda. The discussion brought together policymakers, industry leaders and creators who reflected on the progress made so far and the vast opportunities ahead for those working in film and digital content.
Speaking on the programme, Sophia Nantongo, the Under Secretary at the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, explained that the development of creative talent must be supported by a strong digital foundation. She noted that Uganda has significantly expanded internet connectivity through more than four thousand five hundred kilometers of fiber optic cable and an increasing number of telecommunications masts across the country. Regional cooperation is also strengthening cross border connectivity, allowing creatives to work seamlessly across the East African region, even on major water bodies where reliable internet access was once a challenge.
With this infrastructure in place, the government has also moved many public services online. Citizens now apply for items such as passports and driving permits digitally, making basic digital literacy essential for everyone regardless of profession or social background. Nantongo explained that this shift has increased the urgency of skilling programs designed to ensure that no citizen is left behind. She added that the National Innovation Hub in Nakawa now offers a state-of-the-art content creation studio at no cost to the public. Young filmmakers and digital storytellers can learn essential practical skills ranging from editing and sound design to visual production and monetization. Alongside the hub, the Uganda Institute of Information and Communications Technology provides government funded and subsidized courses in ICT, filmmaking and digital media, while similar innovation hubs at Kabale University, Soroti University and Muni University bring creative resources closer to communities across the country.
As more Ugandans build careers online, concerns around safety, intellectual property and misinformation have become increasingly important. The Ministry is strengthening data protection and cybersecurity frameworks and enhancing intellectual property awareness to ensure that creators and their content are protected. These efforts are laying a solid foundation for a safer and more predictable creative environment.
While government plays a central role in building the ecosystem, MultiChoice Uganda has emerged as one of the most influential drivers of film and television skills development in the country. During the episode, Rinaldi Jamugisa, the PR and Communications Manager at MultiChoice Uganda, highlighted the MultiChoice Talent Factory as a long-term investment in the future of African storytelling. He noted that the initiative is focused on identifying talented young filmmakers and equipping them with practical, globally competitive production skills.
The programme operates through four academies in South Africa, Namibia, Nigeria and Kenya, with the East Africa Academy in Nairobi training filmmakers from Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania and Ethiopia. Students gain hands-on experience in scriptwriting, directing, cinematography, sound design and postproduction, supported by global industry partners such as Dolby, Universal and Fox. Jamugisa emphasized that the training is fully funded, ensuring that financial limitations do not prevent talented Ugandans from accessing world-class film education.
The impact of these programs is already visible. A strong example is Ugandan filmmaker and MTF alumna Cissy Nalumansi, whose career spans writing, directing, producing and acting in award nominated projects. She credited the programme with giving her confidence, professional discipline and collaborative mindset needed to excel on any production set. She also highlighted the value of the alumni network, which provides mentorship and opportunities long after graduation.
Arts and culture journalist Andrew Kaggwa described the present moment as a golden era for Ugandan creators. He noted that although the industry once struggled with limited resources and minimal institutional support, the demand for content today is unprecedented. Creators can now find meaningful opportunities within Uganda, across East Africa and throughout the continent without needing to leave home. He added that talent alone is not enough, emphasizing the importance of professionalism, community and a strong digital presence.
Episodes of the Ugandan Podcast are available on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@ministryofictnationalguida3600), Apple Podcasts, Spotify & Audiomack. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
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