Film makers advised to invest in cinema halls

Ugandan filmmakers have been advised to invest in local cinema halls, commonly known as Bibanda.

This advice came from film entrepreneur Humphrey Nabimanya during a panel discussion organized by Women in Film, Uganda, in Kampala on Saturday.

Nabimanya, who has already invested in two local cinema halls in Kampala, highlighted the potential of this approach. “This is the only way we shall make money from the films that we produce in Uganda because our audiences are the ordinary Ugandans that live in areas like Kawempe, Makindye, Nakawa, and other divisions,” he said.

Actress Jackline Katusiime received an award for the 2024 women in film monologue challenge

He believes that if filmmakers can establish 100 cinema halls across Kampala and other parts of the country, their films will reach the intended audience.

To address funding challenges, Nabimanya advised women filmmakers to seek grants. Intellectual property lawyer Derrick Tumusiime urged filmmakers to study local and international copyright laws before investing in film projects. “You must have proper documentation for your projects and ensure you own the project. Otherwise, you risk others making copyright claims, and you end up earning nothing from your film,” he warned.

Tumusiime also recommended that established filmmakers explore other income sources, such as image rights, advertising, brand endorsement, and merchandise sales. He suggested seeking legal services from the Uganda Law Society, which has intellectual property lawyers to assist with copyright issues.

Film makers Eleonor Nabwiso and Cleopatra Koheirwe at the launch of the organisation

Women In Film, Uganda's mission is to uplift and advance female creatives in Ugandan cinema, equipping them with the necessary tools to succeed. Members will receive digital literacy training to stay updated with the latest tools and technologies in the film marketplace. The organization’s board of directors includes Mariam Ndagire, Cleopatra Koheirwe, Nathan Magoola, Aganza Kisaka, Lora Lucky Atwiine, Nana Kagga, Petit Iriho, Tracy Mimi, and Dorothy Nabunjo.

Dr. Jesca Ahimbisibwe, director of Cinema Uganda and Women in Film, Uganda, announced programs designed to empower members. These include women in film workshops covering filmmaking, entrepreneurship, and leadership. “We shall also have a six-month screenwriting incubation program, and the organization will establish a film production hub to provide women with access to affordable equipment and resources to create content,” she said.