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Mpuuga no longer represents us on Parliamentary Commission, NUP hits back to Speaker Among’s decision

By
Simon Kabayo
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Embattled former LoP, Mathias Mpuuga.

The National Unity Platform top leadership has refuted Speaker Anita Among’s decision of blocking the removal of Mathias Mpuuga as a member of the Parliamentary Commission.

NUP’s statement came out yesterday, after Among blocked the removal of Mathias Mpuuga as member of the Parliamentary Commission, saying the letter authored by the National Unity Platform (NUP) has no basis or foundation in law because, once any MP is elected by Parliament as Commissioner, they cease to serve individual party interest and serve Parliament as a whole.

NUP stated, “For clarity, when we communicated to Parliament our decision to withdraw the mandate we had given Mathias Mpuuga to represent us as a Commissioner, we were aware that Ms. Anita Among would seek to protect him like she has previously done. Just this past weekend, Dictator Museveni praised her for having brought (read bought) many opposition leaders to him. Her ways are therefore well known. In any case, Ms. Among chaired the Parliamentary Commission meeting that illegally and immorally allocated the 500 million shillings to Mpuuga.”

NUP noted that one of its objectives is to be on record and officially communicate to Parliament the disapproval of corruption and abuse of office.

NUP also aims at reaffirming that given the facts available now, Francis Zaake remains the Party’s legitimate representative on the Parliamentary Commission as he was unconstitutionally removed from that role.

“We ensure that when the Parliamentary Commission engages in more forms of corruption as it surely will, no wrongdoing shall be imputed on the National Unity Platform.” NUP stated.

In a letter dated March 25, 2024, directed to the NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya, Among stated that under the law, political parties are limited to nominating candidates for the election to the office of Commissioner of Parliament.

She was referring to Rubongoya’s letter dated March 18, 2024, addressing her of the NUP’s decision to recall Mr Mpuuga as the Commissioner of Parliament and replace him with Mityana Municipality MP, Francis Zaake.

“Parliamentary Commissioners are elected by Parliament by virtue of section 2 of the Administration of Parliament, Cap 257 and rule 11 (4) of the Rules of Procedure of the Parliament of the Republic of Uganda. The role of the parties under the law is limited to nominating candidates for election to the office of the commissioner of parliament as stipulated in sub-section 2(2b),” Ms Among’s letter reads in part.

According to her, NUP’s letter has no basis or foundation in law.

“To do so as you (NUP) request would amount to fettering the authority vested in the House by the clear and unambiguous section 5 of the Administration of Parliament Act resulting in undesirable legal consequences in line with the decision of the Constitutional Court of Uganda in Fox Odoi-Oyelowo and James Akampumuza Versus Attorney General, Constitutional petition number 8 of 2003,” Mr Among responded, adding: “I can, therefore, not implement it.”

The Speaker’s response was made public just hours after Mr Mpuuga on Tuesday addressed journalists and vowed not to leave NUP or step down from the parliamentary commission.

 “I will not respond to that letter, save to restate my position as communicated earlier to the Party and nation that I affirm the fact that I confess no wrongdoing whether in law or elementary common sense. The position of the law has been clarified to whoever wishes to understand but not to deliberately slander me or gain short-term political capital out of the current situation. So, I do state my position, it is the position of the law and common sense. I wish to reassure all comrades in the struggle for a fair Uganda that my commitment has never waned and I will not and shall never be part of any form of corruption. I have never been indicted of corruption, I am never corrupt and nobody will invite me into corruption,” Mpuuga told journalists during a press briefing at Parliament.

He added that he would not quit a party he helped found like many wanted him to. Instead, he would stay and help streamline its operation and ensure discipline among members.

 “I am a founder of NUP, I did not just join from nowhere but I was part of the founding blocks – where I serve as the deputy president in charge of Buganda. I am also here to reaffirm that I am not leaving NUP, I am not here to do anything to destroy or kill it. So, whoever thought they were hounding me out… I am here for keeps,” Mr Mpuuga vowed.

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Uganda to host 22nd International Water Congress and Exhibition

By
Our Reporter
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Uganda is set to host the 22nd AfWASA International Congress and Exhibition (AfWASA ICE2025) which will bring together water sector players from across the world.

National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC), an agency of the Ministry of Water and Environment will host the high-level event, organized by the African Water and Sanitation Association (AfWASA) Board under the theme: Water and Sanitation for All: A Secure Future for Africa.

The event slated to take place from February 16-20, 2025 at the Speke Resort Convention Centre brings together different water and sanitation actors from various parts of the world to share experiences, exchange ideas, and collaborate on the best practices and policies for growing the sector.

Speaking during the launch at the NWSC resource centre in Bugolobi, Dr. Silver Mugisha, NWSC MD said the self-sustaining event will provide opportunities for networking for delegates to leverage and build business partnerships.

“We are going to be talking about issues affecting the water sector. The issues are very clear, we know we are lagging behind as a continent as far as water and sanitation coverage is concerned. Very few people have water and safe sanitation and there are many more who need to be served,” said Dr. Mugisha who is also the President of the African Water and Sanitation Association.

He said that the conference which will be hosted in Uganda for the 3rd time to discuss leadership and governance misalignment including how the water and sanitation sector is managed in Africa.

“In that congress, that’s when we shall be celebrating the establishment of the African Water and Sanitation Academy (AWASA) which is going to be a subsidiary of AfWASA, but it is ongoing to be based here in Uganda and it is going to be a model institution,” added Dr. Mugisha.

The academy to be hosted by NWSC, Uganda is a center of excellence aimed at improving the water and sanitation sector’s performance in Africa. Its primary purpose is to build the capacity of water and sanitation utility managers and African decision-makers in the sector.

Dr. Mugisha said the centre hopes to encourage their growth in the various aspects of leadership and change management. This goal will be achieved by innovatively combining the scientific, technical, and governance structures of the water and sanitation sector as part of a specific African identity. “The official launch of the AWASA will be one of the Congress’ key activities,” he said.

Sam Mangusho Cheptoris, the Minister of Water and Environment said that hosting the 22nd AfWASA International Congress and Exhibition aligns with Uganda’s vision of achieving SDG 6.

“This is timely, as Africa grapples with the various challenges facing the water and sanitation sector. Most African countries, especially Sub-Saharan Africa, are off track to meet SDG 6 by 2030 I’m sure that bringing together experts to share knowledge experiences, and new breakthroughs during the Congress will provide the necessary impetus to accelerate the attainment of SDG 6 and also ensure a secure future for Africa,” the Minister said.

Cheptoris said that the government of Uganda recognizes that access to safe drinking water and sanitation services is a basic human right and that it has put water and sanitation at the forefront and an enabler to sustainable development.

“As a country, we have made strides in enhancing water and sanitation services, which we are proud of but we are also cognizant that more still needs to be done to achieve the SDGs,” he said, adding that the government is committed to ensuring water and sanitation for all.

Emmanuel Otiam Otala, Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Natural Resources said water is an essential commodity that needs to be given the priority that it deserves in terms of sector funding.

“When our people don’t get clean and safe water, many things come in including diseases, malnutrition, and of course, the overall agricultural productivity in a country like this one will be affected,” he said.

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Kira Motors Skills 53 drivers in Electric Bus Operations

By
Simon Kabayo
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Kiira Motors Corporation and the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation under the Office of the President yesterday passed out 53 bus drivers under the E-Bus Operator Skilling Program during a ceremony held at the corporation’s plant in Nakasongola.

The fully-funded program – which commenced in December 2023 at Luwero Industries Limited, Nakasongola – is intended to build 100 bus drivers into experts in the operation of the Kayoola electric buses and related infrastructure made in Uganda.

While speaking during the graduation ceremony, Dr Monica Musenero – the Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation in the Office of the President said that in addition to the technical elements, the training was meant to teach the drivers customer service and how to handle travelers with respect.

“We designed this course intending to change the mobility industry and revolutionize the public transport system,” she added. 

The training involved skilling on: Handling and operation of the Equipment on duty; Operating the Charging Systems; Routine Service Maintenance and Repair of the Equipment; Customer Experience and Traffic Rules and Regulations.

Paul Isaac Musasizi – the Chief Executive Officer of Kiira Motors, said, “To be able to run this pilot E-Bus Operator Skilling Program, we designed a comprehensive curriculum which lends itself to international standards and best practices, and our strategy is to work with the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation to have it accredited to enrich the program and skill even more drivers and trainers for the good of the mobility industry.”

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Speaker Among trashes NUP’s decision to recall Mpuuga as Commissioner of Parliament

By
Geoffery Serugo
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Speaker Anita Among

Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among has trashed the National Unity Platform’s (NUP) decision to withdraw the nomination of Mathias Mpuuga and replace him with Francis Zaake.

Mpuuga is accused of engaging in acts of corruption and abuse of office when he reportedly, together with the NRM Parliamentary Commissioners irregularly allocated themselves Shs1.7 billion Service Awards in a meeting chaired by Speaker Among.

On March 18, 2024, NUP Secretary General Lewis Lubongoya petitioned the Speaker Among about the party’s decision to withdraw Mpuuga. The petition followed the National Executive Committee of NUP meeting which convened on March 15, 2024, to consider Mpuuga’s response to the accusations that he engaged in acts of corruption and abuse of office.

“Although he responded to NEC’s request to show cause why he should not be recalled from the Parliamentary Commission, he did not provide any satisfactory explanation for engaging in this grave action which goes against the mission, values and objectives of the Party. In particular, he did not make any attempt to respond to the specific accusations leveled against him” the party said.

“NEC has resolved to recall Mathias Mpuuga from the Parliamentary Commission on account of corruption, dishonesty and abuse of office, and to notify Parliament of the same. NEC further resolved to nominate Francis Zaake Butebi as Parliamentary Commissioner,” the party resolved.

In her response, Among said Parliamentary Commissioners are elected by Parliament. The role of parties under the law is limited to nominating candidates for election to the office of Commissioner of Parliament.

“Once elected by Parliament, the commissioners cease to serve individual party interests and serve Parliament as a whole. As such, they can only vacate the position or be removed therefrom in conformity with the law,” she said.

Section four of the Administration of Parliament Act states that a member of the Commission shall cease to hold office on vacating his or her seat in accordance with article 83 of the Constitution:

She said a member of the commission, other than the Speaker and the Leader of Government Business, may be removed from office by Parliament for inability to perform the functions of his or her office arising from infirmity of body or mind, misbehaviour, misconduct, or incompetence.

“The process of removal of a commissioner is by a motion for a resolution for removal of a commissioner initiated by a notice in writing to the Clerk to Parliament signed by not less than one-third of all the voting members of Parliament indicating their intention to remove the member. This means that with the total voting members of Parliament being 529 the notice should be supported by not less than 177 members of Parliament.” She said.

She stated that Mpuuga has neither vacated his seat as a member of Parliament nor has he been, upon a motion moved in strict compliance with the rules of procedure, found guilty by Parliament for inability to perform the functions of his office arising from infirmity of body or mind, misbehaviour, misconduct or incompetence.

Among noted that Political Parties lack the requisite legal mandate to recall a commissioner of Parliament once elected by Parliament. To do as you request would amount to fettering the authority vested in the House by the clear and unambiguous section 5 of the Administration of Parliament Act resulting in undesirable legal consequences. Your letter, therefore, and desire for the National Unity Platform, has no basis or foundation in law. I can therefore not implement it.

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Housing Finance Bank facilitates dialogue among stakeholders to ease vehicle and asset acquisition for Ugandans

By
Our Reporter
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Kampala- According to the recently released Bank of Uganda monetary policy statement, Uganda’s economic growth is projected to perform at ranges of 5.5%-6.5% in the short-to-medium term premised on the projected activity in agriculture, the extractives sector, and infrastructure development. This growth prospect also points to an increasing demand for vehicles and equipment by Ugandan individuals to businesses which can only be fulfilled by collaborations between financiers, asset vendors, and independent leasing firms offering a suite of solutions that make vehicle acquisition more accessible.

In full recognition of the need for collaboration, Housing Finance Bank recently convened a vehicle and asset financing (VAF) partners’ forum that brought together various players in the VAF ecosystem such as CFAO Mobility, MAC East Africa, RentCo, SKENYA Motors, Pacific Diagnostics, Atlas Cargo, Double Q, Babu Motors, and Victoria Motors, and insurers such as CIC Insurance and SWICO. The forum aimed to share industry insights, best practices, and opportunities that can drive Uganda’s socioeconomic growth and prosperity.

This initiative is integral to the Bank’s ongoing commitment to serving business needs and cultivating partnerships that foster enterprise growth while enhancing customer satisfaction, with a target of exceeding 90% by 2027.

Led by a distinguished team comprising Mr. Michael K. Mugabi, Managing Director; Ms. Peace K. Ayebazibwe, Executive Director; and Angela Ndawula, Head of Business and Institutional Banking, alongside other senior executives, the Bank’s vehicle and assets financing forum provided an invaluable platform for comprehensive discussions on the effectiveness and impact of Housing Finance Bank’s suite of VAF solutions within the vibrant market potential for ecosystem partners, businesses, and consumers in the asset financing sector in Uganda.

During the forum, Peace Ayebazibwe, Executive Director at Housing Finance Bank noted that whereas the Bank is popularly known for its legacy mortgage solutions, it goes beyond to provide mainstream financial solutions within its scope as a fully-fledged commercial bank that includes VAF solutions implemented alongside strategic partners focused on respective productive movable assets in all the economic and social sectors.

“As asset vendors and insurers, you form an integral part of the delivery process of our Vehicle & Asset Financing (VAF) solutions as partners. And this is why we are intentional about engaging you directly on how we can enhance our collaboration to increase uptake and value in this space,” she said.

In his remarks, Michael Mugabi, Managing Director of Housing Finance Bank, reiterated the importance of partnerships and synergies for mutual business prosperity and socioeconomic development.

“Uganda’s positive economic growth outlook speaks to the huge opportunities for all of us as players in the vehicle and asset financing market. This will lead to an exponential increase in the uptake of our respective services by Ugandans since the demand for vehicles and equipment, financial services such as asset financing, and insurance in addition to auxiliary services is rising,” he said.

He also added that Housing Finance Bank is looking to utilize partnerships in the asset financing sector to advance the Bank’s Environmental, Social, and Governance agenda through working with ecosystem players within eco-friendly technologies, electric vehicles (Evs), and Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV) spaces.

Richard Elimu, Group Chief Executive at the Riel Group Africa, a dealer in pre-owned heavy commercial trucks, shared his perspective on the partners’ forum and highlighted Housing Finance Bank’s continued support to players in the asset financing sector.

“I would like to thank Housing Finance Bank because we have walked this journey of asset financing together for about ten years. And within this period, most of the customers I have referred to the Bank have gotten the facility they require for their assets. So, I request that Housing Finance Bank has more of these engagements. And also as suppliers, we should understand what the Bank needs so that they can take the customers through this process to ensure a smooth process with the Bank,” he said.

Housing Finance Bank remains steadfast in its ongoing efforts to create avenues for stakeholder engagement across the business community. These endeavors not only drive business growth but also make a lasting impact on Uganda’s socioeconomic development.

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Strengthening public communication: PS Ministry of ICT, ISO tip Uganda’s government communicators

By
Our Reporter
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The Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, in collaboration with the Internal Security Organization (ISO), is pioneering initiatives to refine the approach to government communication in Uganda.

This partnership is key to ensuring that the actions and priorities of the Ugandan government are communicated effectively, aiming to positively impact the citizenry’s quality of life.

During a retreat in Moroto on March 19, 2024, Dr. Aminah Zawedde, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, highlighted the significance of collaborative effort among government communicators. She stated, “To reach out and effectively inform the various audiences about the government’s endeavors, it’s crucial that we operate not as isolated entities but in a concerted manner.”

The agenda of the retreat revolved around modernizing government communications to match the pace of technological advancement and to utilize these developments for public benefit. Objectives include enhancing the credibility and efficiency of government communication, building public trust, and nurturing top-notch communication talent within the government sector.

Col. Emmy Katabazi, the Deputy Director General of the Internal Security Organization, emphasized the necessity for a paradigm shift in the mindset of government communicators to support the revolutionary goals of the government. He asserted, “We need to adopt a revolutionary mindset. The challenges we face are significant, and they require us to think and act broadly, not narrowly.”

The gathering also saw participation from Ambrose Byoona, CEO of Sanny Bird, who discussed the economic and social impact of a new cement factory in Moroto, projected to be the largest in East Africa and a major employer in the region. This venture is expected to significantly reduce the cost of cement production and play a role in regional community development, including food security and educational scholarships.

This retreat, organized by the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance in partnership with the ISO, was an opportunity to come up with concrete plans to improve how government communicates with the people. The Government Communication Officers Forum (GCOF), established in 2012, is now being revitalized to ensure that government spokespeople and communicators work together effectively to convey the government’s social, economic, and development messages to the public.

Overall, the retreat in Moroto was a step forward in improving government communication in Uganda. By working together, understanding the changing technology landscape, and staying connected to the communities they serve, government communicators are becoming better equipped to share information that can truly make a difference in people’s lives.

This collaborative retreat aimed to formulate actionable strategies to overcome the challenges in government communication. Dr. Zawedde and Col. Katabazi’s remarks underscore the commitment to a renewed and effective communication framework that aligns with the needs and aspirations of the Ugandan populace, promising a future where government communication is more interactive, transparent, and transformative.

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Uganda registers a surge in the number of tourists

By
Geoffery Serugo
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Tourists enjoy vegetation in Uganda.

Uganda has registered a surge in the number of tourists, the just-released 2023 Tourism Uganda Ministry of Tourism Wildlife and Antiquities performance report indicates.

According to the report, Uganda registered 1,274,210 tourists in 2023, compared to 814508 who visited the destination in 2022. Arrivals from Africa continue to dominate Uganda’s inbound tourism, with a share of 89.2%. Asia (4.4%), Europe (3.1%), and the Americas (1.9%) continue to be the biggest contributors to overseas tourist arrivals.

The growth was largely driven by an increase in arrivals from Mainland Africa and growth in the country’s traditional overseas source markets, such as the UK, USA and India. At least 126136 tourists arrived from overseas, while 1136216 came from various African countries.

The report indicates that destination Uganda is still grappling with the challenge of growing the overseas market. The overseas share shrank by one percentage point from 12% in 2022 to 11% in 2023, and that for Africa rose by the same margin.

It is worth noting that this is the most critical bracket, as overseas tourists are generally high spenders and thus contribute significantly to foreign exchange earnings.

The reports show that Africa and Asia have fully recovered above the pre-pandemic numbers of 2019. Asia and Africa recorded the best results, with arrivals of 79% and nine percent, respectively, above pre-pandemic levels.

“The Americas recovered 16% of 2019 numbers, Europe 16%, the Middle East 13%, and Oceania eight percent. Although the overseas regions are yet to recover, increases were recorded in the number of visitors from this region in 2023 compared to 2022, with America increasing by 34.4%, Asia 39.4%, Europe 42.4%, and the Middle East 14.7%,” the report notes.

India continued to remain the major overseas market for Uganda in 2023. The USA, UK, China, and Germany maintained the second, third, and fourth places, respectively, in 2022 and 2023.

Bangladesh has come out as a potential overseas market to look out for in 2024, moving from seventh place in 2022 to the top position in 2023 among the top ten potential overseas markets in 2023.

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Minute Maid makes waves with surprise campus activations

By
Francisco Adongo
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Minute Maid, the iconic juice brand under the Coca-Cola Family, is causing a stir on university campuses across Uganda with its vibrant campaign titled; The Minute Maid Refresh Surprise

The campaign has already swept through various campuses, including Kampala University Ggaba Campus, Ndejje University Bombo, Uganda Martyrs University Nkozi, YMCA Buwambo campus, YMCA Wandegeya campus, IUEA Kansanga, and Makerere Business School, engaging over 5,270 enthusiastic students in exciting promotional activities and showering them with prizes.

These activations aim to provide students with the ultimate Minute Maid Refresh experience, fostering connections and building a vibrant community through a medley of entertaining and fun-filled activities featuring comedians Madrat and Chiko, artists like Vinka, and exhilarating City Bus rides.

Since its establishment in 1946, the product line has undergone expansion to include refreshing flavors like Apple, Mango, and Orange. These variants are available at an affordable price range of Shs1000 to Shs1,500, making them suitable for all meal times.

Arthur Akankwasa, Senior Franchise Manager at The Coca-Cola Company emphasizes the brand and commitment to connecting with consumers in their comfort zones, “Our products are crafted with fresh fruits to meet the sensory demands of our customers, inspiring feelings of vitality and infusing new energy into their lives.”

Encouraging consumers to slow down and savor the moment, Minute Maid offers an array of options that tantalize the taste buds while nourishing the body. These activations serve as a reminder to pause and embrace the present moment, intercepting life’s moments with a burst of refreshment.

Akankwasa further explains, “Drinking Minute Maid is more than just a taste sensation; it’s about hydration, nourishment, indulgence, and beyond. The experience of enjoying Minute Maid makes people feel alive, aligning perfectly with our brand mission to invigorate anyone, anywhere, and at any time.”

Excitement is building as more universities, including St. Lawrence University, Ndejje University, Gulu University, Kampala International University – Ishaka, and UTC Bushenyi, gear up to experience the electrifying activations.

With Minute Maid products available at affordable prices and a plethora of fun activities in store, students can look forward to an unforgettable experience.

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I didn’t join NUP but I was part of the founding blocks, I am here to stay- Mpuuga

By
Simon Kabayo
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Former LoP Mathias Mpuuga.

Former Leader of Opposition, Mathias Mpuuga has vowed not to quit National Unity Platform (NUP), saying that despite being hounded with insults from the public, stay in the organization he founded with his colleagues.

“Questions and speculations have been ongoing as to whether, where and when I am going. I am here to state that I am a founder of National Unity Platform. As you are aware, I didn’t join NUP but I was part of the founding blocks of NUP where I serve as a Deputy President in charge of Buganda. I am also here to reaffirm that I am not leaving NUP, a party I founded with colleagues consciously and I am not here to do anything to destroy or kill it. At least, I am not invited to do so at this moment, at least, nobody has moved me to the level of even thinking about deserting a party I founded,” Mpuuga said.

Mpuuga also admitted to have seen the letter by his party, rescinding his earlier nomination as a member to the Parliamentary Commission, saying he won’t respond to the letter because he will never be corrupt or recruited into corruption as he is being accused, saying those accusing him of corruption are seeking for short term political capital.

“I will not respond to that letter, save to restate my position as communicated earlier to the party and nation that I affirm the fact that I confess no wrong doing whether in law or elementary commonsense. The position of the law has been clarified to anyone who wishes to understand but not to deliberately slander me or gain short term political capital out of the current situation. So, I do state my position, it is the position of the law and common sense. I wish to reassure all comrades in the struggle for a fair Uganda that my commitment has never waned and I will not and shall never be part of any form of corruption. I have never been indicted of corruption, I am never corrupt and nobody will invite me into corruption,” said Mpuuga.

Mpuuga also criticized the top leadership at NUP for the way the matter was handled, arguing that whenever the Party members find themselves disagreeable on anything in their midst, there must be mechanisms put in place for mature resolutions that is different from grandstanding and desire to settle political scores at the expense of reputations of comrades with whom they have struggled to offer the country better leadership.

“Ugandans must be encouraged and I am here to invite Ugandans to question the decision of their leaders, especially those in higher offices that make decisions on their behalf and act on their behalf. In the current circumstances, it isn’t difficult to tell that the objective was never on accountability, because no one provides accountability on social media or at press conferences,” Mpuuga said.

He added, “The previous days have cast much doubt within the Ugandan populace and our partners beyond our borders of whether our Party is capable of handling tasks of liberation and effective solutions to the political and social challenges of our country. We must regain public confidence as NUP and as the opposition, trust and demonstrate that we are worthy of the people’s support in leading the charge for change and transformation that the Ugandan masses are yearning for.”

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The Ikon Awards 2024: A celebration of Ugandan Storytelling

By
Our Reporter
-

The second edition of the Ikon Film and Television Awards happened at the Kampala Serena Hotel in an elegant black-tie affair that saw the cream of Uganda’s creative industry dressed to the tee for the black carpet experience. 

The Ikon Awards are an initiative of Reach A Hand Uganda (RAHU) as a platform to recognise and celebrate innovation and creativity in Uganda’s film and television industry. 

This year’s edition attracted 203 submissions that resulted in 26 wins including Polly Kamukama and Joseph Ken Ssebaggala’s Unheard taking home the award for Best Film, Patrick Lorimo’s Maid of Honour winning Best Screenplay, Hakim Zziwa’s Building 62 winning Best Short Film and Doreen Mirembe’s Damalie taking home the Best TV Series. 

The Lifetime Achievement award was bestowed upon Michael Wawuyo Sr. – who was hailed for his consistent support for upcoming filmmakers throughout his decades of service to the industry. 

The ceremony was attended by players in Uganda’s film and TV industry as well as the Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development – Hon. Betty Amongi – who pledged the Government’s support for the creative industry because of its role in developing the nation. 

She said, “His Excellency the President has given us a directive for this financial year to take to cabinet and enact the law, policy and regulatory framework to handle the issue of first intellectual property because we must protect your content from plagiarism. We are also here to support you to monetise your creativity. We are also looking at incentives for investment and tax rebates and are discussing how to identify the equipment that will be used in your sector to allow you to bring in quality equipment.” 

The ceremony featured energetic performances from Coco Finger, Young Mulo, Bella, Vampino, Ziggy Dee and the Wembley dancers in a non-stop medley across four stages. 

The ceremony was also attended by special guests from Nigeria’s film industry: Ramsey Nouah; Osite Iheme; Nancy Isime, Chris Odeh and Uche Ateli – who spent some time in the country before the main event conducting a series of masterclasses with young and aspiring filmmakers under the Ikon Awards Young Filmmakers Fellowship.  

Humphrey Nabimanya, the founder of the Ikon Awards, said, “The Ikon Awards are a much-needed opportunity for us as players in the industry to come together, celebrate each other’s’ wins and network for the growth of the industry. I’d like to congratulate all the winners and also thank all the partners that have come on board to make this a resounding success. Thank you, all, and we’ll be back next year bigger and better.” 

The Ikon Awards are supported by Sauti Plus Media Hub, UNESCO, Radiant, Uganda Airlines, Kampala Serena Hotel, Next Media, Divine Resort Mukono, Sozo Films, Coal360, ATS Events, Light for the world, Aquafina, Cinema UG, Uganda Key Populations Consortium, Media Challenge Initiative, Print Creations and Ramsey Films. 

Below is the full list of winners:

Best Film 

The Kitara Chronicles – Yiga Sadat, Kizito Sudaisy Sebbowa

The Passenger – Meddy Sserwada, Hadijah Nakanjako

Unheard – Polly Kamukama, Joseph Ken Ssebaggala (WINNER)

All for Love – Okurut Nego Paul

Best Director

Joseph Ken Ssebaggala – Unheard (WINNER)

Hadijah Nakanjako – The Passenger

Yiga Sadat – The Kitara Chronicles

Patrick Lorimo – Maid of Honor

Best Actress in a Leading Role

Fauziah Nakiboneka – Maid of Honor

Jackline Katusiime – Unheard (WINNER)

Rehema Mutesi – Ganyana

Tania Shakirah Kankindi – All for Love

Best Actor in a Leading Role

Kenneth Rukundo – All for Love

Fenando Kamugisha – The Fallen Advocate

Henry Nathan Katongole – The Passenger (WINNER)

Masadde Isa Yusuf – The Kitara Chronicles

Best Actor in a Supporting Role

Joseph Kahirimbanyi – Unheard

Mathew Kavuma – Maid of Honor

Blair Koono – Enkuba (WINNER)

Sulait Mulimira – Ganyana

Best Actress in a Supporting Role

Edith Baganda – Maid of Honor

Allen Musumba – The Passenger (WINNER)

Diana Kahunde – All for Love

Florence Naiga – Ganyana

Best Director of Photography

The Fallen Advocate – Benson Kamau Muigai

The Passenger – Izaek Ekuka (WINNER)

Unheard – Kitsha Kyasi Joseph

The Kitara Chronicles – Kizito Sudaisy Sebbowa

Best Screenplay

The Kitara Chronicles by Yiga Sadat, Masadde Isa Yusuf

The Passenger by Meddy Sserwada

Maid of Honor by Patrick Lorimo (WINNER)

Unheard by Polly Kamukama

Best Sound

Elly Musinguzi – Nkwanzi’s Slip

Simon Agola, Michael Kavuma – Maid of Honor

Isiko Abubaker – The Passenger

Kaz Kasozi – Unheard (WINNER)

Best Editor

Emma Daka Waira – The Passenger (WINNER)

Joseph Ken Ssebaggala – Unheard

Derrick Taremwa – Enkuba

Okurut Nego Paul – All for Love

Best Costume Design

Nabanja Hikmah, Lukwago Paluku, Tumusiime Jackie – The Kitara Chronicles (WINNER)

Kyosiima Ginny – Unheard

Matilda Kavuma – Maid of Honor

Julian Kirabo, Ali Musinguzi, Isaac Kyakoonye, Patricia Nabirye – The Tale of Our Times

Best Makeup and Special Effects

Esther Nakaziba – Maid of Honor

Rose Lily Kebirungi – Unheard (WINNER)

Lisa Sonia, Shadia Nakaddu, Cathy Kyokunda, Joana Nabakiibi – The Tale of Our Times

Hikmah Nabbanja, Patience Nakibuka Shadia – The Kitara Chronicles

Best Production Design

Francis Byaruhanga – Unheard (WINNER)

Rutaro Abel – The Tale of Our Times

Yiga Sadat – The Kitara Chronicles

Imran Musabeh – The Passenger

Best Visual Effects

Cruz Abdullah, Faisal Mukalazi, Patrick Chris Black – The Tale of Our Times

Tusingwire Alex – The Kitara Chronicles (WINNER)

Wavamuno Caeser, Suuna Abubakar – Enkuba

Best Short Film

Taama – Arthur Nsubuga

Ziwa – Samuel Tebandeke

Building 62 – Hakim Zziwa (WINNER)

The Last Shoemaker – Ali Musoke

Best Documentary

The Shadow Pandemic – Ssekandi Jimmy (WINNER)

The Land of Peace – Ali Kibirige, Herbert Jjuuko, James Twino

Dear Queen – Jamir Jamal Musenze

 Best Animation Film

The Guardian – Denis Junior Dhikusooka

Herderboy – Raymond Malinga (WINNER)

Lost – Ashiraf Mulima

Best TV Series

Prestige – Nathan Magoola

Damalie – Doreen Mirembe (WINNER)

Beloved – Nathan Magoola

Best Actor in a TV Series

Raymond Rushabiro – Prestige

Dennis Kinani – Damalie

Symon Base Kalema – Prestige (WINNER)

Best Actress in a TV Series

Doreen Mirembe – Damalie (WINNER)

Sally Elizabeth Bwamimpeke – Prestige

Faith Kirabo – Beloved

Best Student Film

Find Me Online – Brian “Vons” Mukisa

I Sold Me Out – Lubeera Saphina

Scold’s Bridle – Ssemwogerere Nurudeen

Silent Scream – Otim Gerald (WINNER)

Ikon Rising Star

Faith Kirabo

Joseph Kahirimbanyi

King Missy Ochola (WINNER)

Ikon Rising Star (Africa)

Nancy Isime

Lifetime Achievement Award

Michael Wawuyo Sr.

Emerging Film Award

Unheard

African Ikon Award

Osita Iheme

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