MultiChoice Uganda, in collaboration with the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) and other industry partners, has officially launched the Uganda Film Festival (UFF) Regional Competitions and Training Sessions. These initiatives are part of the 12th edition of the UFF, designed to showcase and nurture local filmmaking talent.
The competitions and workshops will be held in various regions across Uganda, including Central (Mubende), West (Ntungamo), East (Tororo), and North (Lira). The events will provide an opportunity for filmmakers to present their work, gain industry insights, and compete for recognition in their regions.
Regional winners will be selected based on their storytelling and filmmaking skills, with a chance to receive awards for their exceptional work.
Speaking at the Central Regional Film Competitions award ceremony in Mubende, Nyombi Thembo, the Executive Director of UCC, emphasized the importance of the initiative. “The regional film competitions offer filmmakers from across Uganda the opportunity to gain exposure, receive training, and compete for prestigious awards. This initiative expands beyond Kampala to allow more talent to shine, addressing unemployment through investments in the creative industry. Empowering young filmmakers will help build a self-sustaining film industry,” said Thembo.
This year, up to 32 regional winners will be recognized for their outstanding contributions to Ugandan filmmaking.
Rinaldi Jamugisa, PR and Communications Manager at MultiChoice Uganda, also expressed excitement about the partnership. “Our continued collaboration with UCC reflects our commitment to local content. These competitions and workshops allow filmmakers to hone their skills and explore greater opportunities within the film industry,” said Jamugisa.
The workshops, running concurrently with the competitions, will cover crucial topics like content acquisition, best production practices, and monetization strategies. Led by industry experts, the sessions aim to provide filmmakers with the knowledge needed to thrive in an evolving film landscape.
“Our goal is to empower the next generation of Ugandan filmmakers. Through initiatives like the regional film competitions, we are providing platforms for local talent to grow and bring their creative stories to life,” said Jamugisa.
Hannah Nalunga Lukoda, a graduate of the 2023 MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF), expressed her gratitude for the platform provided by UCC, UFF, and MultiChoice Uganda. “Winning Best Film, Best Actor, and Best Original Soundtrack for ‘Jimbi’ is a testament to the dedication and effort invested in this project. We are optimistic about the future, with multiple nominations at local and international awards,” said Nalunga.
As part of their ongoing support for Uganda’s creative sector, UCC, MultiChoice Uganda, and other stakeholders will travel to the selected regions to celebrate and acknowledge the winners. The regional competitions will culminate in the Uganda Film Festival Awards Gala, where the winners will be recognized for their accomplishments.
This initiative is part of a larger effort to strengthen Uganda’s film industry and ensure that local talent is positioned for success both nationally and internationally.
