Kasule Douglas Benda
Uganda has made a powerful statement at this year’s Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF) 2025, bringing home top awards and flying the flag high on one of East Africa’s biggest creative stages.
The wins are not just about trophies, they represent a growing strength, bold storytelling, and undeniable talent that is now earning international recognition.
- Doreen Mirembe took home the award for Best Actress in a TV Series for her stunning performance as Damalie in the powerful Ugandan series DAMALIE. Her portrayal has captured hearts and conversations across the region on Pearl Magic Prime
2. BOY NO FEAR, a bold and emotional short film by Jonathan Curtiss, won Best Short Film
3. Acclaimed Ugandan-American actor/director Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine was also recognized for his deeply touching documentary film ‘MEMORIES OF LOVE RETURNED’, which continues to receive another critical acclaim as Best Documentary Film.
4. Veteran actor Peter Odeke won Best Actor in a Feature Film for his compelling performance in ‘JANANI – THE LAST STAND’, a role that brought both intensity and humanity to the big screen.
5. And capping it all off, ‘JANANI – THE LAST STAND’, directed by celebrated filmmaker Matt Bish, won Best Feature Film, cementing Uganda’s position as a key player in East African cinema.
These awards go beyond personal success because they represent a powerful shift for Uganda’s film industry as a whole. They reflect what can be achieved when talent is supported, stories are told with depth and craft, and the regional spotlight begins to shine brighter on Ugandan cinema. It’s a moment of progress, pride, and possibility.
To all the nominees and winners, we say congratulations. You have not only represented Uganda, but you have also inspired a generation of filmmakers to dream louder, work harder, and push further.
This is #MakingUgFilmsFamous in motion.
#ZIFF2025
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