By Sulaiman Kauki
LUWEERO, Uganda – The social impact film NO/Nedda emerged as the standout production at the central region edition of the Uganda Film Festival regional competitions held on March 16 in Luweero.
The film scooped three major accolades, including Best Film, Best Community/Impactful Film, and Best Actor, with the acting award going to Bugaba Clinton Cyrus.
The regional competition, organized by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) in partnership with MultiChoice Uganda, attracted 37 filmmakers from across the central region.
Speaking at the event, Julianne Muheirwe, Director for Economic Regulation, Content and Consumer Affairs at UCC, said the initiative was introduced in 2023 to expand opportunities for creatives beyond Kampala.
She noted that the regional format is intended to bring the film industry closer to emerging talents across the country, ensuring that filmmakers from different areas can actively participate and grow within the industry.
Winners at the event shared a total of UGX 15 million in cash prizes from UCC. Additional awards were provided by MultiChoice Uganda, including UGX 1 million for Best Film and UGX 500,000 each for categories such as Best Smartphone Film, Best Student Film, and Best Community/Impactful Film.
According to Brian Mulondo, Local Content Marketing Manager at MultiChoice Uganda, the competitions are helping to uncover unique storytelling voices from across the country and support them in reaching broader audiences.
The event was officiated by Alice Kaboyo, State Minister for Luwero Triangle and Rwenzori Affairs, and also featured training sessions led by industry experts aimed at equipping young filmmakers with skills in storytelling and production.
The regional competitions will proceed to other parts of the country, including Arua and Hoima, as part of the wider Uganda Film Festival programme.
MultiChoice Group, a leading entertainment provider operating in over 50 African countries, continues to support the initiative through its platforms that deliver both broadcast and streaming content to millions of viewers across the continent.
