7 Ugandan Maverick Filmmakers You Need to Know

In the heart of Uganda’s creative landscape, a transformative wave is sweeping through the realm of filmmaking. A cadre of visionary storytellers and visual maestros is redefining narratives, challenging conventions, and igniting a cinematic revolution. Join us as we bring you some of the names in film on the scene right now, that are putting Uganda on the map.

Raymond Malinga

Raymond Malinga, the CEO of Creatures Animation Studio in Kampala, is a visionary in the animation realm. His directorial prowess shines through in the short animated film “A Kalabanda Ate my Homework,” which not only secured a spot in the prestigious Festival De Cannes Short Film Corner 2018 but also garnered accolades globally. Prior to this, his graduation short film, “White Collar Time” (2014), earned him recognition in various international student film competitions.

Malinga’s journey took an exciting turn when he contributed to the success of the popular Malaysian animated series, “Ejen Ali,” for Wau Animation Studio. His multifaceted role as an Animator, Screenwriter, and Concept Developer showcased his versatility and skill.

In a bold move in 2014, Raymond Malinga left his position to embark on a mission to impact the local and continental animation industry in Africa. This marked the inception of Creatures Animation Studio, a testament to his commitment to elevating the standards of animation in the region.

Recently, he was part of a number of African directors that created and directed an animated short series ‘Kizazi Moto’, a sci-fi show featuring futuristic Africa, which is now streaming on Disney Plus.

Peter Niwagaba

A Ugandan-born screenwriter and director, he earned his Bachelor’s degree in animation and visual effects design from Multimedia University, Malaysia. Proficient across various genres, from comedy and drama to action and sci-fi thrillers, he has contributed significantly to the film industry. Notable projects include his involvement in hit African shows like “Prestige,” where he served as a writer and story developer, and his directorial roles in “Junior Drama Club” and “POPI.”

Driven by a passion for preserving Ugandan narratives, his mission is to translate as many stories from Uganda to film as possible. Through this, he aims to safeguard our collective experiences and perspectives for future generations.

Afrie

A multifaceted talent hailing from Uganda, Afrie wears the hats of a musician, filmmaker, and advocate for girls’ education. Her storytelling prowess, characterized by wit and boldness, resonates particularly with the narrative of the African girl.

Afrie proudly serves as an ambassador for the African Union CIEFFA campaign, focusing on educating girls in the post-Covid-19 era. As the founder of Kalaverse, an empowering initiative, she dedicates herself to mentoring and supporting female creatives. Under Kalaverse’s banner, Afrie has overseen the production of twenty films, including the musical comedy “Downside Up.”

Her documentary, ‘Little Faith,’ a compelling narrative depicting Karamoja’s first female doctor, not only earned the Best Documentary award at the Uganda Film Festival but also achieved international acclaim. Screened in over 20 countries, it has touched the lives of more than 5000 people.

Afrie’s educational journey has taken her through esteemed institutions such as MultiChoice Talent Factory, the University of Southern California, and Henley Business School.

Shari Mwanika

An avid filmmaker, photographer, and content creator, she is driven by a passion for challenging norms and amplifying positive, empowering narratives—especially those centered around women.

In 2018, she marked her directorial debut with the experimental short ‘Erasure,’ an official selection at the Silicon Valley African Film Festival. The following year, she co-directed the short film ‘Wrapped Up,’ another official selection at the Shnit Worldwide Film Festival in Cape Town.

Venturing into the digital realm, she’s the creative force behind the YouTube channel ‘Shnaks,’ where she candidly shares her artistic journey, explores themes of sisterhood, and navigates the quirks of adulthood with her best friend.

Beyond film and YouTube, her passion for music manifests in co-founding ‘Xpressions UG,’ a platform dedicated to promoting the new wave in East Africa and connecting exceptional artists with a global audience.

Her most recent project, ‘I Eat What I Like’, is a sex dramedy that tells the story of a young woman and her mum growing into their own sexually.

Angella Emurwon

A celebrated Playwright and Filmmaker, she boasts an impressive array of awards. Her debut short film, ‘Sunday,’ clinched the Best East African Short at the Mashariki African Film Festival, secured the 2nd prize  at the Ndiva Women’s Film Festival, and earned the title of Best National Short Film at the Gulu International Film Festival.

‘Sunday’ further garnered international attention with screenings at prestigious events like the Durban International Film Festival and The Silicon Valley African Film Festival. Beyond film, her radio plays, including ‘The Cow Needs a Wife’ and ‘Sunflowers Behind a Dirty Fence,’ have both been honored with BBC Radio Drama Awards.

In addition to her individual accomplishments, she extends her expertise as a screenwriting mentor, guiding emerging writers from Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Ghana, and Germany.

Ali Musoke

Ali Musoke, a seasoned Producer, Director, and Cinematographer, infuses his work with a storytelling passion and a distinct visual style that sets him apart. Accumulating nearly a decade of experience in the industry, he has written and directed four short films: ‘Connected,’ ‘Black and White,’ ‘Faded,’ and the ongoing production, ‘The Last Shoemaker.’

Beyond his directorial ventures, Musoke has helmed three episodes of the web series ‘Enno Laavu,’ currently in post-production. His prolific career extends to producing over 12 short films and two feature films, ‘Nothing Going On’ and ‘Be a Good Girl.’ Presently, he’s immersed in the production of two feature-length documentaries, ‘Kongo is Burning’ and ‘Kange,’ both selected and invited to international film markets in South Africa, Germany, and Spain.

In 2014, Musoke founded Stone Age Pictures, an independent and award-winning production company specializing in developing, financing, and producing content for global audiences. Adding to his impact, in 2018, he established Film Possible, a non-profit dedicated to providing year-round support to the next generation of African filmmakers.

Musoke’s impressive portfolio extends to collaborations with renowned clients such as BBC, HBO, National Geographic, Google, Vice News, and more.

Shevon Nsiimenta

Nsiimenta is not just a storyteller; she’s an emphatic professional in the realms of copy and script writing. Fueled by a passion for animation, she fearlessly delves into the complexities of the human experience through her narratives.

Her debut 3D animation film, ‘Miika,’ made waves by winning the Best International Film at the CineOdyssey Film Festival and securing nominations at prestigious international film festivals, including Indie Short Fest and Auber International Film Festival.

In 2020, Nsiimenta received a grant, courtesy of Kemiyondo Coutinho, designed to support emerging female Ugandan filmmakers. This grant was instrumental in bringing ‘Miika’ to life, marking a significant step in her creative journey.

SatisfashionUg@gmail.com