Ugandan filmmakers challenged to reject foreign imitations

TORORO - The State Minister for East African Community Affairs, Magode Ikuya, has challenged filmmakers in eastern Uganda to harness their creative potential to promote Ugandan culture and enhance tourism.

Speaking at the Eastern Uganda Regional Film Competition Awards Gala in Tororo, he emphasised the importance of authentic Ugandan storytelling and showcasing the country’s landscapes to attract international recognition.

The awards ceremony, organised by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) in partnership with MultiChoice Uganda, was a build-up to the Uganda Film Festival scheduled for June this year. The event celebrated the achievements of regional filmmakers and underscored the importance of unique Ugandan narratives.

Minister Ikuya urged filmmakers to use their craft to highlight the country’s cultural richness instead of imitating foreign content. "Use your drama to sell our culture and promote tourism," he declared. "Depict our traditional practices, norms, and values. Showcase our beautiful landscapes. Reject imitations of non-Ugandan styles and celebrate our unique identity."

His message resonated deeply with attendees, reinforcing concerns over the dominance of foreign content in local entertainment.

Tororo district chairperson John Okea echoed this sentiment, urging filmmakers to prioritise authentic storytelling over imitation.

"No one will put us on the level of Nigerian filmmakers if we don't improve our own work," he stated. "Focus on real-life stories, not copying others. If you copy, you won't earn admiration. Even in our homes, it's difficult to argue with our wives when Nigerian movies are playing because they stick to their own cultural themes."

UCC reaffirmed its commitment to supporting local content creation. Ibrahim Bbossa, UCC’s head of public and international relations, highlighted initiatives such as training programs, funding, and global exposure opportunities.

Acknowledging previous challenges—like poor scriptwriting and technical limitations—he praised the progress made, noting that Ugandan films are now gaining international recognition and securing distribution deals. He further noted that the regional expansion of the film industry beyond Kampala is a significant step in the sector’s growth.

Rinaldi Jamugisa, MultiChoice Uganda’s public relations officer, assured attendees of the company’s increased investment in Uganda’s film industry.

He reaffirmed MultiChoice’s dedication to providing platforms for Ugandan stories and supporting talent development through initiatives like the MultiChoice Talent Factory.

The event celebrated outstanding achievements in eastern Uganda’s film industry. Hawa Kambeja, from the film Helpless, won Best Actress, receiving sh1.5 million. Midpoint won best smartphone film, earning sh2 million.

Within Us, directed by Umar Balunywa, won best community/impactful film with a sh4.5 million prize and also took home the best soundtrack award, worth sh2.5 million.

Emmanuel Walugula won best actor for his performance in Within Us, receiving sh1.5 million. Timothy Ochwo received special recognition for his contributions to regional film development and was awarded sh2 million. All winners received additional packages from MultiChoice Uganda.

The event highlighted Uganda’s growing film industry and its potential to drive economic growth, preserve culture, and instil national pride.

The key takeaway was clear: Ugandan filmmakers have the power to tell their own stories, celebrate their heritage, and elevate Uganda’s standing in global cinema.