UCC has introduced a film fund to support scriptwriting, story development, and pre-production. The initiative provides both Development and Production Grants to filmmakers.
The success of Queen of Katwe, which injected over Shs29.5 million into Kampala's economy, underscores the vast potential of Uganda's film industry.
The production employed more than 400 people, including street vendors and transport operators, with some earning as much as one million shillings per day.
Additionally, 200 vehicles were hired to create the film's vibrant city scenes. For filmmaker David Mugume, head of production at Stone Age Pictures, this is just a glimpse of what could be achieved.
"Imagine what Uganda's economy could accomplish if we had a city built specifically for film, like Pretoria in South Africa or Hollywood in the USA," he reflects.
Even as Uganda's music industry struggled during the COVID-19 pandemic, the film sector proved more resilient.
The demand for local content continues to rise, with DSTV now airing Ugandan films, bolstering local productions.
Titles such as Makula, I Am Much More, and Muduuma Awuuma are gaining attention both locally and internationally.
"We're seeing a wider variety of films being produced--documentaries, satire, and educational content funded by NGOs and government programs. These films, shot with advanced equipment and even smartphones, are more grounded in real-life experiences," Mugume explains.
He attributes this progress to technological advancements and mentorship. Filmmaking training programs are emerging across Uganda, particularly in Kampala, Gulu, and Mbarara, allowing young creators to make films on smaller budgets while achieving global recognition.
"I was mentored by Mira Nair, John-Carlos Estrada, Ali Musoke, and Patience Asaba. Now, I'm driven to pass on what I've learned," says Mugume, who has mentored over 500 filmmakers, including students at Makerere University, Kampala University, and Swangz Creative Academy.
Technology and social media have also transformed the industry. Young filmmakers now have expanded platforms to showcase their work and access insights from seasoned professionals.
Nana Kagga, a leading figure in Ugandan cinema, highlights how artificial intelligence is reshaping scriptwriting.
"AI can analyze scripts, refine dialogue, and even predict a film's success--things that were unimaginable a decade ago. It's exciting to see young filmmakers harness these tools," Kagga says.
Today's Ugandan films are exploring themes of family, personal struggle, and the balance between superstition and reality, weaving traditional elements into their narratives.
However, challenges remain. A lack of mentorship and access to cutting-edge technology continues to hinder many filmmakers.
"Mentorship bears fruit--I am a product of it--but it's still too scarce in our industry," says filmmaker Loukman Ali.
"Many successful people have spent years mastering their craft through trial and error. With proper guidance, they could have saved time and resources."
Actor Micheal Wawuyo Jr. agrees, noting that while training from the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has helped, access to top-tier cameras, lighting, and editing software remains a challenge.
To address these gaps, UCC has introduced a film fund to support scriptwriting, story development, and pre-production. The initiative provides both Development and Production Grants to filmmakers.
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"There's a shortage of resources, but we hope these funds will help filmmakers access the latest technology," says Julian Mweheirwe, UCC's Director for Industry and Content Development.
"Our goal is to produce high-quality films that enhance Uganda's global image and competitiveness."
Mweheirwe remains optimistic, pointing to the rising popularity of animation, short films, and TV dramas. These, he believes, could elevate Uganda's global profile, boost tourism, and create opportunities for international collaboration.
With mentorship, technological innovation, and a new generation of passionate filmmakers, Uganda's film industry stands at the brink of remarkable growth.
While challenges persist, the sector's potential to create jobs, shape culture, and achieve global recognition is undeniable.
