For years, Uganda’s film industry has been viewed as a passion-driven space—creative, vibrant, but economically uncertain. That perception, however, is steadily shifting, with policymakers and industry players now positioning film not just as art, but as a viable economic sector capable of creating jobs and driving growth.
At the Northern Region awards gala of the recent Regional Film Competitions in Arua, both government and industry leaders signalled a deliberate change in mindset about the role of film in Uganda’s economy.
Arua Resident City Commissioner, Retired Major Betty Akello, who officiated as chief guest, emphasised that the creative industry should be taken seriously as an economic driver.
“The creative industry is not a hobby. It is an economic sector,” she said.
“When you produce a short film, you hire actors, editors, scriptwriters, costume designers, sound engineers, caterers and transport providers. That one production creates a chain of income.”
Her remarks reflect growing recognition that filmmaking has ripple effects far beyond the screen. Even small-scale productions support a network of workers—many of them young people—earning an income from a single project.
UCC’s Eng.Alfred Bogere (R) handing over the award for the Best Community Impactful Film to director Trapped Kwak (2nd Right)
In a country grappling with youth unemployment, this multiplier effect is increasingly being seen as an opportunity to create livelihoods.
The Regional Film Competitions, organised by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) in partnership with MultiChoice Uganda, form part of a broader strategy to professionalise the industry.
Now in their fourth edition, the competitions have been held across the country, including in Soroti, Luwero and Arua, with Hoima set to host the Western region leg.
Beyond recognising talent, the programme focuses on capacity building. Participants undergo training in scriptwriting, directing, acting and production before creating films that compete at the regional level.
Winners receive up to Shs15 million from UCC, alongside additional incentives from MultiChoice Uganda. But officials say the long-term value lies beyond the prize money.
Eng Alfred Bogere, UCC’s Director of Engineering and Communications Infrastructure, said the initiative is designed to build a sustainable filmmaking ecosystem.
“We have seen past participants submit films to the Uganda Film Festival, secure commercial contracts, start production companies and employ fellow youth,” he said.
“That is how ecosystems grow—through exposure.”
These outcomes point to a gradual but important shift, with filmmaking increasingly seen as a viable career path rather than a side pursuit.
Bogere also acknowledged lingering scepticism about creative careers, particularly among parents.
“Sometimes parents still ask their children, ‘Film, what job is that?’” he said.
“Yet a single feature film production can employ over 100 people. That is a significant number earning income from one project.”
Through initiatives such as the Regional Film Competitions, the Uganda Film Festival and the Content Development Support Programme, UCC is positioning the creative industry within Uganda’s broader economic framework.
Rinaldi Jamugisa (R) Multichoice Uganda’s PR and Communications Manager handing over the award for Best Smartphone Film
The cast and crew of No Safe Place To Call Home celebrate winning Best Film
“As the regulator and promoter of the communications sector, we see the creative industry as a powerful economic driver,” Bogere added.
The industry is also being reshaped by technology. Several films showcased in Arua were produced using minimal equipment, including smartphones—highlighting how lower production costs are making filmmaking more accessible.
“We have seen entries shot with minimal equipment, yet the storytelling is powerful,” Bogere noted.
“Equipment matters, but creativity matters more.”
This shift is helping democratise the industry, particularly for young creatives outside Kampala who may lack access to expensive production tools.
However, as access expands, officials warn that professionalism must keep pace.
“Good storytelling must be matched with respect for intellectual property, professional contracts and compliance with national content standards,” Bogere said.
“Professionalism is what will attract investors.”
MultiChoice Uganda’s involvement, particularly through the MultiChoice Talent Factory, is helping bridge that gap by offering advanced training and exposure to selected filmmakers.
For government leaders, the long-term ambition is clear: to transform Uganda’s film industry into a structured sector capable of contributing meaningfully to national development.
“Globally, film industries have transformed economies, and Uganda can do the same,” Akello said.
“But it begins with supporting our storytellers, investing in skills and maintaining quality standards.”
As the Regional Film Competitions head to Hoima to complete this year’s cycle, attention will turn to whether such initiatives can sustain momentum—turning creativity into consistent production, jobs and income.
Northern Region winners
Best Film: No Place To Call Home – Directed by Daniel Komakech
Best Actor: Hallandno Opio (No Place To Call Home)
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