Veteran Ugandan actor Michael Wawuyo Sr. is set to make his debut in Nigeria’s film industry after signing a landmark agreement with the iKON Awards under its exchange programme. The deal paves the way for Wawuyo to feature in the upcoming Nigerian drama Dambe, directed by Nollywood star Ramsey Nouah.
The signing ceremony was held at the offices of Reach a Hand Uganda in Lungujja, Kampala, where iKON Awards leadership and production partners officially unveiled the collaboration. The project brings together Ramsey Films, Sozo Films Limited, BRS Studios, and Sauti Plus Media Hub, with the aim of bridging East and West Africa’s creative industries.
Wawuyo Sr., widely celebrated for his decades of contribution to Uganda’s stage and screen, was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2024 iKON Awards. His selection for Dambe marks not only personal recognition but also a breakthrough for Ugandan actors seeking to expand into continental markets.
He is scheduled to travel to Nigeria on 27 September 2025 to begin work on the production. According to the organisers, this collaboration is the first of several projects planned to strengthen ties between Ugandan filmmakers and Nollywood, Africa’s largest film hub.
Speaking after the signing, Wawuyo expressed gratitude for the opportunity, calling it “a new chapter for Ugandan talent to shine beyond borders.” Representatives from the iKON Awards said the partnership reflects their mission to create platforms that celebrate, train, and export Ugandan creatives to the world stage.
Ramsey Nouah and his team noted that casting Wawuyo Sr. is both symbolic and strategic, showcasing how African cinema can tell stories that cut across cultures while nurturing a truly Pan-African film industry.
Uganda’s film industry, though growing, has long struggled with limited financing, distribution, and exposure compared to Nollywood. This exchange programme is designed to change that narrative offering Ugandan actors, directors, and crews opportunities to gain international experience, expand their networks, and raise the profile of Ugandan storytelling.
The partnership also builds on the iKON Awards’ vision of positioning Uganda as a serious contributor to Africa’s creative economy. For Wawuyo Sr., the deal cements his legacy while opening doors for the next generation of actors who may follow in his footsteps.