Deputy Speaker Tayebwa Pledges Government Support for Uganda’s Film Industry

The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, has expressed his commitment to supporting Uganda’s film sector, emphasizing the industry’s vital role in promoting and preserving the country’s culture and heritage.

Speaking at the 10th Uganda Film Festival (UFF) Gala Night on Friday, Tayebwa stated that the government sees the film industry as a means to showcase the importance of culture to the world. He urged local filmmakers to produce more films that would shape a progressive and highly gifted image of Uganda, capable of relying on creative talents for transformation.

Tayebwa also highlighted the Parliament’s commitment to advocating for a conducive environment for the growth of the creative industry, enabling it to make a unique contribution to cultural expression. He acknowledged the challenges facing the film industry, particularly piracy, and pledged to combat this issue to ensure that local content creators can fully benefit from their work.

The Uganda Film Festival is an annual event that celebrates the best talent in Uganda’s film industry, honouring leading actors, actresses, film directors, scriptwriters, and other creatives for their outstanding contributions to the entertainment sector’s development.

Regarding the funding shortfalls affecting the sector, Tayebwa urged filmmakers to organize themselves, emphasizing that an organized group would gain the attention and support of the government. He noted that the government recently passed a budget of UGX 51 trillion, prioritizing allocations of UGX 234 trillion. To be relevant and included in the budget, the film industry needs to demonstrate strong organization and provide data on how it can be best supported.

Tayebwa commended the Uganda Communication Commission (UCC) for its continuous efforts over the past decade to promote the film industry. He recognized the impact of UCC’s consistency in fostering the growth of local content, resulting in financial benefits for those involved in the industry.

During the Uganda Film Festival, organized by UCC, various activities take place, including the Film Exhibition Market, Film Training, Film Forums & Workshops, Film Screenings, and an Awards Gala Night, all aimed at showcasing Uganda’s talent in the film industry.

The Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Dr Chris Baryomunsi, in a speech delivered by Permanent Secretary Dr Amina Zawedde, acknowledged the potential of the film industry to provide employment opportunities for the country’s youth.

He encouraged young people to utilize their creative and innovative abilities in various spheres, emphasizing the role of the film industry in the nation’s journey of progress. Baryomunsi praised the strides made by the Uganda film industry, successfully promoting Ugandan films in regional and international markets, attracting investors and tourists, and contributing to economic development.

Baryomunsi called upon all Ugandans to support the local film industry and emphasized the importance of cultivating a culture of willingness to pay for creative works. He emphasized that audience supports through purchasing tickets, subscribing to streaming services, or engaging with paid content on online platforms directly contributes to the sustainability and growth of the industry, ultimately benefiting the overall economy.

UCC’s Acting Executive Director, Eng. Irene Kaggwa Sewankambo, emphasized the immense employment potential within the local film industry, emphasizing the need for job creation in Uganda’s young population.

She urged Ugandans to embrace local content and expressed gratitude to those who have contributed to the film industry’s growth and success over the years. Eng. Kaggwa assured filmmakers of continued support from UCC, stating that they have no intention of abandoning the sector and pledging to collaborate with all stakeholders to build a successful future for Uganda.