Uganda Film Festival 2025 announces nominees

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The red carpet is being rolled out once again as the Uganda Film Festival (UFF) returns for its 12th edition, and this time, it’s all about homegrown voices and bold storytelling.

At the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) head offices in Bugolobi, the official nominees for the 2025 festival were announced on Monday (April 15, 2025).

Over the years, UFF (Uganda Film Festival) has become more than just an awards show, it's a movement that’s reshaping the narrative of Ugandan film. This year, the festival received a record-breaking 362 entries, with over 330 submitted by local independent filmmakers. Notably, unlike previous editions dominated by commissioned content from platforms like MultiChoice Uganda, every film this year is independently produced.

Mariam Ndagire

“Filmmakers are more intentional about owning their voice and saying what they want in ways they know how,” said Julianne Mweheire, UCC’s Director of Economic Regulations, Content, and Consumer Affairs.

This intentionality is what has helped push the festival’s reach beyond Kampala to include strong voices from Gulu, Jinja, Mbarara, and Arua, hinting at a decentralization of creativity and the rise of fresh perspectives from all corners of the country.

At the forefront of this year’s nominations are two films Kimote by Hassan Mageye and Nkinzi by Rehema Nanfuka each scoring 14 nominations. These cinematic gems are followed closely by Fatal, Speak, and Two Paths.

Nkinzi, a children’s film, tells the story of a young girl who runs away from home in search of love and finds kinship with a streetwise boy and his sister. The film introduces the festival’s youngest nominees; Passion Kisakye and Myra Ariana Lubowa.

Sarah Kisawuzi

Then there’s Kimote, a tale rooted in heritage and identity. It follows a young man’s mission to preserve the ancient craft of backcloth making, a skill his father is ready to abandon. Set in Buddu, it evokes emotion through impressive cinematography, editing, costuming, and makeup.

As the quality of Ugandan filmmaking rises, the jury is also pushing for deeper cultural introspection. “We have mastered the art of making the basket,” says Philip Luswata, head of this year’s jury. “But what do we put in the basket? We are yet to truly tell a Ugandan story or define the colour of Uganda.”

Philip Luswata

UFF 2025 is also doubling down on audience development, with UCC Executive Director Hon. Nyombi Thembo revealing plans to engage grassroots exhibitors like “bibandas” (video halls), alongside modern streaming platforms. The aim is to grow a sustainable local film audience that meets filmmakers where they are.

The Uganda Film Festival gala will be held on June 6, but screenings in local communities and cinemas will begin earlier.