Ugandans have long dubbed January the "month of worry" due to financial constraints following extravagant spending during the December festive season.

Referred to as "40 days of January" or even "90 days," the month is characterised by a scarcity of funds, especially for those paid on December 20 and again on January 31.

Despite the economic challenges faced by many, filmmakers in Uganda remain undeterred. January sees a flurry of film and TV show premieres, including TV series, features, short films, documentaries, and stage plays.

The year kicked off with the launch of the second season of the popular television series, Junior Drama Club (JDC), on January 4, 2024, produced by Allan Manzi and Nisha Kalema.

The stage play titled Gaasasika Ku Lwa? commenced on December 30, 2023, and continued until January 7, 2024, at the National Theatre.

Notably, One Night Stand by Uganda Cinema Night screened on January 10 at the National Theatre, followed by the premieres of TV series Nsibambi by Rhonnie Nkalubo Abraham and feature film Against My Dreams by Seeta High School - Mukono on Pearl Magic and at Century Cinemax - Acacia Mall in Kamwokya respectively. 

The celebrity reality show Kampala Creme, featuring Baby Gloria, DJs Etania, Zato, and others, was also launched on January 14 at Mezo Noir on DSTV.

Anticipation is building for actress Faridah Nabagereka's performance in the Friday Night Lights show at Bat Valley Theatre on January 26, 2024.

Additionally, TV series Borders by Daphine Ampire is set to premiere on January 27, 2024, at Motiv in Bugolobi, while Ashiraf Mulima's I Apologize will bid farewell to the month on January 31, 2024, at the National Theatre.

Speaking to New Vision about his decision to premiere in January, a month often feared by event organisers and promoters, Mulima expressed confidence in his movie. He believes that if a film is of high quality and effectively marketed, it will attract a full house despite the economic constraints associated with January.

"I don't see any problem with January because I believe in my movie. I am sure that the audience will make it regardless of the economic constraints that are often associated with the month," Mulima said.

The extensive list of film releases in January raises speculation about a potentially busy year for Ugandan filmmakers, with numerous premieres and screenings expected in February and beyond.