The women driving Uganda's return to respect of local content

At this moment, interest in regional productions of plays and movies is greater than ever. As foreign television programs become less prevalent, Ugandans are carefully learning to enjoy and watch native programming. These shows are starting to carve out a niche for themselves in popular culture.

Many people are unaware, though, that the women driving this resurgence of local content are accomplished women who have surmounted many challenges to earn recognition for their work and influence in the film industry. These women have broadened their experience in the entertainment industry by producing, directing, and writing for regional dramas, movies, and, more recently, reality TV series.

These days, it is not rare for a showrunner who is female to oversee the entire production and perform exceptionally well in that role.

One of the women making waves in the film industry is Doreen Mirembe, the producer and director of the regional TV drama "DamaLie." Through Amani Films, her production company, she has successfully reshaped the positions traditionally held by women outside of the acting industry. Under her care and direction, Damalie has begun to get notice due to the show's deft storytelling and sharp character portrayals by the actors, which has resulted in awards over the past nearly year.

With a nearly three-decade career spanning music, theater, cinema, and television, Mariam Ndagire is a trailblazer in shattering stereotypes of women in the entertainment industry.

Ndagire is well-known for her singing, dancing, and acting prowess. Her diverse skill set has helped her rise to the top of Uganda's entertainment industry. Her most recent victory was at the Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards in 2022, where "My Husband's Wife," her film, won "Best Movie - East Africa."

Mariam's nomination as a jury member for the esteemed AMVCAs in 2015 demonstrated her widespread recognition throughout the continent. Ndagire has made a foray into reality television, producing and directing the well-liked wedding program "Our Perfect Wedding."

Her adaptability and tenacity have guaranteed her long-term existence in the very competitive field. Established by Ndagire as part of her commitment to fostering the next generation, the Mariam Ndagire Film and Performing Arts Centre (MNFPAC) hosts yearly film seminars for budding filmmakers, with a particular emphasis on young women.

Another strong lady whose star in the Ugandan film business keeps shining brightly is Eleanor Nabwiso. Although Nabwiso began her career in front of the camera, she also had a successful career behind the camera, having starred in the well-liked Ugandan series "The Hostel" in the late 2000s.

Eleanor's film "Bed of Thorns" garnered two local and one international film award in 2019, showcasing her skills as a camera operator. The film, which was created entirely by women, broke the glass ceiling for women in the Ugandan film industry in addition to receiving praise from critics for its masterful execution. Eleanor presently works behind the camera on the same set as the casting director of the popular local soap "Sanyu" in which she plays the infamous villain Lucy.

In terms of breaking new ground, Judithiana Namazzi Ndugwa appears to have created the ideal niche for herself by bringing reality television to the Ugandan people. Namazzi, a newcomer to the film and television industries, has won over Ugandan viewers with her unique brand of wit and humor that never fails to make people smile. She began her career as a broadcaster on radio before moving to television in the same role. She eventually dabbled in television production and directing.

A multitalented individual, Judithiana's distinctive voice is a must-hear in every episode of her show, "Date My Family Uganda," which she also directs. Ugandans appear to have responded favorably to Namazzi's most recent project, "Kampala Crème," in keeping with the same audacious attitude.

With its catchy one-liners and lively conversation, the show—which airs on MultiChoice's Pearl Magic Prime and Pearl Magic—hit the ground running and quickly established itself as the top show in Ugandan television's 08.00pm timeslot every Sunday since January 2024. Every time a new episode of the show airs, scenes from it always start conversations on social media.