Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has unveiled a 5-member committee that will scrutinize film projects that want to receive funding from the Commission through its initiative dubbed Content Development Support Programme.
The committee, which will be led by filmmaker, author and professor of Literature and Film at Makerere University Sr. Dominic Dipio, has members in film industry players Judith Adong and Philip Luswata, as well as Claire Mugabi of Uganda Tourism Board and Collin Asiimwe of Multichoice Uganda.
According to UCC, the programme received 60 applications from filmmakers seeking financial support to propel their projects.
The Committee is charged with independently processing the applications and recommending the most deserving among them for funding.
Officials say the fund Shs700m at its disposal although UCC has initiated partnerships with various stakeholders in a bid to secure more funds to support the initiative.
Explaining the genesis of the Content Development Support Programme, UCC Ag. Executive Director Irene Kaggwa Sewankambo said the Commission has observed a gap in funding content.
“We have listened to the industry asking for support,” Sewankambo said. “We are now in your hands; help us to find that product that needs our support.”
The Content Development Support Programme is an initiative dedicated to supporting the audio-visual industry in Uganda.
Through this initiative, production companies can seek support for the development of creative content for film, television and digital media, including feature films, short films, animations, documentaries and television dramas.
“It is envisaged that through the support provided by this programme, Ugandans will be able to create employment opportunities, generate revenue, acquire skills, promote and develop audiences for local content,” the executive director explained.
