By Prossy Namiiro
Filmmakers at the recently concluded Uganda Film Festival Awards that were held at the Institute Of Information and Communications Technology in Nakawa protested against the unfair treatment from the government.
The filmmakers claimed that they have tried to make it up for the industry but have failed due to underpayment and unprofessionalism in the industry.
Through famous actor Patrick Nkakalukanyi, who had won the Best Actor in Feature Film Award, for his role in Tembele, they asked the government to put up mechanisms to support the industry and promote filmmakers’ welfare.
“When you see us dressing up well, you think we are well off but we are not. We struggle a lot to look like this because we do not earn well. Our industry is not set to professional standards and we need more from you in help. We are grateful for this opportunity but we need more. We need a more professional industry where filmmakers are paid well, can access the services of the Uganda National Social Security Fund(NSSF) and can be insured,” He said.
In cheers and roars, other filmmakers stormed the stage, in protest.
Chris Baryomunsi, the Minister for Information Communication Technology and National Guidance promised to support them but challenged them to organize themselves to be supported.
“The government is ready to support the film industry. We are going to put up mechanisms that foster its growth. However, you have to organize yourselves in leadership and engage us on your priorities.” He said.
The festival was held yesterday 3rd June.
