Arua City Hosts Landmark Film Training as Northern Uganda’s Creative Economy Takes Center Stage

ARUA CITY, UGANDA | March 21, 2026 — The cinematic landscape of Northern Uganda has reached a professional turning point following the successful conclusion of the Regional Film Competition – Film Capacity Enhancement Programme 2026. Held from March 16 to 20 in Arua City, the intensive five-day residency equipped 34 promising filmmakers from Gulu, Lira, and Arua with the technical and business skills required to compete on a global stage.

The programme, spearheaded by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) in partnership with MultiChoice, was facilitated by Mediavision Academy (MVA). Under the leadership of MVA Director and Lead Trainer Robert Nkambo, a team of industry experts provided hands-on coaching in scriptwriting, cinematography, editing, and strategic marketing.

Rtd. Major Betty Akello Otekat (RCC Arua City) hands over a certificate to a participant

From Concept to Screen

The training culminated in a high-profile screening at Hotel Breeze Desert Arua, where two short films produced by the trainees debuted to critical acclaim:

  • “Lens of Rebellion”: A poignant narrative exploring a young woman’s struggle to professionalize her passion for film against societal stigma.
  • “Nyalano”: A gripping cultural drama examining the tension between modern education and traditional ancestral rites.

Elianor Nabwiso one of judges attending the award ceremony at Hotel Breeze, Arua city.

A Multi-Stakeholder Vision for Growth

Addressing the guests, the Guest of Honor, Rtd. Major Betty Akello Otekat (RCC Arua City), emphasized that film is a critical economic driver. “A single production creates a chain of income for actors, designers, and technicians alike,” she noted, urging local storytellers to document their heritage with professionalism.

Representing the UCC, Eng. Alfred Joseph Bogere reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to decentralizing film opportunities. “Our presence in the West Nile shows our dedication to expanding this industry nationwide. While equipment matters, it is the authentic, original Ugandan story that attracts investors,” he stated.

Eng. Alfred Joseph Bogere, Director Engineering Uganda Communications Commission addressing the attendees

A Call to Action for the Future

The event also saw the awarding of 4 Million Uganda Shillings for the Best Film nomination of “No Safe Place to Call Home,” highlighting the tangible rewards for excellence in the region.

In his closing remarks, Robert Nkambo praised the unmatched work ethic of the 2026 cohort. He issued a direct call to action to stakeholders: “I have never trained a team quite like this. To MultiChoice, UCC, and our private partners—we urge you to continue supporting Mediavision Academy in providing focused filmmaking training. Investing in our youth today ensures that Uganda’s stories are told honorably and professionally tomorrow.”

Nkambo Robert the director and founder of Mediavision Academy addressing the guests.

About Mediavision Academy

Mediavision Academy is a leading film and media training institution in Uganda dedicated to empowering the next generation of visual storytellers through practical, industry-aligned capacity building.

Written by Daniel Meboya Massamba – Strategic Communication Specialist