Documentary production in Uganda is still a relatively new field of enterprise. The people that attempt to produce documentaries are limited by lack of equipment to use in the production, the lack of film companies that hire local filmmakers, and the need for financial opportunities to sustain the creative filmmakers while they practice their craft. Organizations (NGOs) are the main clients for documentary producers, but because most organizations are foreign based and only have field offices in Uganda, they usually bring in their own producers from outside the country to complete their documentaries. The limited availability of equipment and financial opportunity makes it exceedingly difficult for a young documentary filmmaker to gain enough traction to get his career established.
A Struggle for Uganda Filmmakers
For some young creative filmmakers, such as Muheebwa K. Hillary, a college graduate with a degree in Mass Communications from Makerere University, determination and hope are the only things that keeps them going. There are some institutions that teach documentary production skills to potential producers, in addition to the schools of journalism that already exist. Perhaps these institutions will help other upcoming directors and producers find the means to make their films. But until it is profitable in Uganda for filmmakers to earn a living, it will remain challenging. Many of these young and talented people have wonderful ideas for films. All they need is that financial assistance to get the necessary equipment to prove themselves. Some of them end up leaving the craft for more profitable work in music videos and theater.
Copyright laws are not strictly enforced, which is another barrier to people working on creative pursuits. Piracy is commonplace. Additionally, to get a documentary broadcast may require buying airtime on television, not a possibility for most young filmmakers.
Nhill Films Begins Production of Documentaries
Muheebwa K. Hillary, along with colleague and classmate Mukiibi Nathan, began producing documentaries following completion of university work. Using only a rented camera and borrowed office space, the two filmmakers began their agency, Nhill Films.
Despite the challenges they continually face, these two young producers have managed to create a number of documentaries including:
- Climate Change Degradation Risk Assessment. A 10 minute documentary on effects of climate change in northeastern Uganda. The project is supported by Tearfund UK through local partnerships.
- Makapads. June 2008. A refugee project in Kyaaka II Resettlement camp, Kyenjo district, where women have been trained and given resources to use in turning papyrus reeds into feminine hygiene products. These products are distributed freely to females in the refugee camp. The project is supported by GTZ, Makerere University and United Nations High Commission for Refugees.
- ANPPCAN. March 2008. A fifteen minute documentary, that looks at the use of babies and children as beggars on the streets of Kampala. ANPPCAN is African Network for the Prevention and Protection against Child Abuse and Neglect.
Prospective Film Project Needs Sponsorship
A prospective film project about gold mining in Buhweju is being held up due to lack of resources. The company is now searching for funding to help complete the project. There has been a longstanding conflict between the artisans, licensed miners, and the government, with the recent deregulation of gold sales and gold from the Congo (DCR) being sold in Uganda (Republic of Uganda) further complicating gold mining as well. The proposed project will show the effects of these issues on the lives of individual Uganda citizens regarding the current gold industry. While much of the work has already taken place, it will require a sponsor to complete the project.
With the intriguing history of this part of Africa, the amazing tenacity of the people, the natural resources of Uganda, and the fierce determination of these young filmmakers, one only hopes they are able to share their important stories with the rest of the world.
Barbara DeGrande - Barbara DeGrande is a writer, film critic, and blogger, with years of experience as a program developer. She has a Bachelor of Arts in ...
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