Uganda’s filmmakers told to lead with authentic cultural stories

Local filmmakers have been urged to embrace their role as cultural ambassadors by telling powerful, authentic stories that reflect the nation’s identity, values, and aspirations.

The call was made by Isaac Kigozi, senior principal trade and investment officer at the Office of the President – Diaspora Affairs, during a high-level industry engagement with Hollywood actor Gbenga Akinnagbe and local creatives at UCC House in Bugoloobi.

“Filmmakers, you are Uganda’s storytellers, our frontline ambassadors,” Kigozi said.

He added, “Every script, play, and film is an opportunity to showcase the beauty, potential, and power of our nation. Your next film could be the one that inspires a tourist to visit Uganda or a global investor to bet on our talent. Always think of that as you craft your next project.”

Kigozi emphasised that under the leadership of President Yoweri Museveni, the government is actively supporting the growth of Uganda’s creative economy, especially through the Diaspora Affairs Department in partnership with institutions like the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) and initiatives such as the Uganda Film Festival (UFF).

“This is more than a single event; it’s a rallying call. The world is watching. Our moment is now. Let’s take Uganda global,” he said.

Kigozi also challenged creatives to focus on building capacity over chasing funding. He stressed that while financial support is important, knowledge is the true currency of progress. “Cash matters, yes, but knowledge is king,” he said.

Local film makers listen to Hollywood actor and producer Gbenga Akinnagbe.

“Master the art of scriptwriting, production, and distribution through initiatives like the Opportunities Are Here (OAH) Project and the EU/UNESCO collaborations. When you invest in your craft, success and funding will follow. Don’t beg for handouts, build a legacy,” he added.

He described networking as the “heartbeat” of Uganda’s film industry and a critical driver of growth and sustainability. According to Kigozi, collaboration and exposure to international best practices will determine how far Uganda’s filmmakers can go.

“From e-distribution platforms like REFILE to Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine’s spotlight at the 2025 African Film Festival, networking is connecting Ugandan creatives to global stages. We need to think Cannes. Think PGA. Think SAG-AFTRA,” Kigozi said.

Reaffirming government support, Kigozi outlined the commitment by the Office of the President to push for favourable policies, such as the establishment of a National Film Fund and tax incentives to nurture talent. He also pointed to ongoing efforts to tap into the Ugandan diaspora for knowledge transfer, market access, and international recognition of Ugandan content.

In partnership with UCC and Pearlwood, the office is exploring strategic ways to equip the industry with cutting-edge training, digital tools, and infrastructure to boost output and quality.

“This is a national agenda. And we’re your partners. Bring your fire, fuel it,” he said.
Kigozi encouraged actors, writers, producers, and other creatives to unite under professional guilds and unions. He said these bodies are essential in advocating for fair wages, protecting intellectual property rights, and setting professional standards across the industry.

“To every Ugandan creative, your talent is this nation’s gift to the world. Protect it with unity, elevate it with pride, and amplify it through collaboration. With President Museveni’s support and our shared vision, Uganda is on the brink of a creative revolution. Let’s make Uganda the beating heart of African storytelling,” he said.

Renowned Hollywood actor and producer Gbenga Akinnagbe, best known for his powerful portrayal of Chris Partlow in The Wire, also called on Ugandan filmmakers to embrace their native languages in storytelling as a way to reach international audiences.
His appeal came during a dynamic engagement with Ugandan film stakeholders on Saturday (July 12, 2025) at UCC House in Bugoloobi, Kampala.

Local firm makers pose for a photo with renowned Hollywood actor and producer Gbenga Akinnagbe.

The high-profile visit, organised by the Office of the President – Diaspora Affairs, was spearheaded by Ambassador Abbey Walusimbi, the Presidential Advisor on Diaspora Affairs.

The event brought together local film producers, actors, and industry professionals to connect with Akinnagbe and share knowledge on global industry standards and opportunities.

Speaking passionately during the engagement, Akinnagbe emphasised the global appetite for authentic African stories, particularly those grounded in human experience and cultural depth.

“I highly recommend that Uganda also make stories in their own native languages, so people really learn like that,” he said. “Uganda, like anyone else, has beautiful, tragic, and heroic stories that are about the human experience. I think that attracts international markets,” he said.

Akinnagbe pointed out that while networking and financing are important, craft should take priority.

“Craft is more important than network and financing,” he said. “If you can't make anything good, no one's going to want to see it. No one's going to be able to relate to it. Work on your craft; the people you're supposed to be working with will come. Trust the process,” he said.

Clearly moved by his time in Uganda, Akinnagbe expressed deep admiration for the country and its people. He commended Ambassador Abbey Walusimbi for the warm welcome to Uganda.

“I’ve only been in Uganda for a couple of days, and I’m already in love. The people are amazing. Africa is my own. Uganda is my own. I thank the Ambassador and the government of Uganda at large for the warm welcome,” he said.

He added, “Anything I can do to shine a light on the variety of amazing stories and opportunities that exist here, I’m going to do it.”

Film director and President of the Uganda Producers Guild, Mathew Nabwiso, praised the engagement for offering a platform to share knowledge and tackle shared industry challenges.

“When we have people from bigger industries willing to share, it’s an opportunity to learn. It helps us understand our own challenges better and improve,” he said.

Nabwiso also stressed the importance of filmmakers joining the collecting society mandated to gather and distribute royalties.

“If you’re not a member, when they collect royalties, you won’t be paid. It’s important people register and protect their rights,” Nabwiso said.