By Agness Agilo
The Resident City Commissioner of Lira, Lawrence Egole, has urged local film actors to stop imitating foreign artists if they are to thrive. Speaking at the 3rd Regional Film Awards held on Friday at Magaritha Hotel in Lira, Egole emphasized the importance of using local talent to develop the domestic film industry, instead of mimicking foreign films with unfamiliar cultural roots.
Egole, who was the chief guest at the event, criticized actors who repeatedly try to replicate foreign styles, including their dress code, food, and lifestyles, arguing that this undermines Uganda's rich culture. He called on local filmmakers to use their talents to promote and celebrate their own cultures, especially in Northern Uganda and the wider nation.
Mayor of Lira City, Sam Atul, also addressed the event, encouraging regional film actors to put in more effort to elevate the standards of the local film industry.
Lillian Eyal, the Resident District Commissioner for Lira, expressed gratitude to the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) for their initiative, highlighting that Uganda’s youth, who make up 70% of the population, are benefiting from the film industry, which helps foster socio-economic development and local revenue generation.
Rinaldi Jamugisa, Public Relations Manager at MultiChoice Uganda, shared that the regional film competition has been running since early March across four regions, aimed at rewarding, training, and recognizing local talent. He acknowledged MultiChoice’s role as a key partner in promoting the local film industry and urged parents to support their children in acquiring the necessary skills to showcase their talents globally. He also mentioned that the regional awards concluded successfully and that preparations are underway for the Uganda Film Festival in June.
Ibrahim Bbosa, Head of Public and International Relations at the UCC, reflected on the success of the Uganda Film Festival over the last 14 years. He noted the growth of the industry across Uganda and emphasized the importance of the regional competitions in showcasing locally made films. This initiative, he said, helps inspire young people to improve their storytelling abilities and create content that can be recognized on a global scale.
During the event, MultiChoice Uganda, in partnership with UCC, awarded cash prizes ranging from 1 million to 5 million shillings to top performers in various categories. Among the winners were 8-year-old Caleb Omara, the grandson of Zumbei Adyeri, who won Best Actor for his role in 8 Years Old and took home 1.5 million shillings. Daniela Aturo, a student from St. Gracious S.S, won Best Actress for 9 Month Sentence, also receiving 1.5 million shillings. Morris Odong won Best Actor for One Last Puff and was awarded 5 million shillings. The event also included a special recognition award for Omar Joshua Adoli, among others.
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