Memories of Love Returned, a documentary by Ugandan-American actor and filmmaker Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine, won Best Documentary at the 11th Mashariki African Film Festival held in Kigali, Rwanda, from November 22 to November 29, 2025. The win marks a major moment for Uganda’s fast-growing film industry and strengthens the country’s creative presence on the continent.
Mashariki African Film Festival is one of East Africa’s leading platforms for film exchange and artistic collaboration. The Uganda High Commission in Kigali sponsored the Uganda pavilion and took part in the festival’s activities, which highlight and promote African cinema.
The High Commission coordinated Uganda’s participation to ensure cultural cooperation supports wider diplomatic goals. Officials said cultural diplomacy remains central to Uganda’s foreign policy, noting that shared initiatives with Rwanda continue to drive film production, talent exchange, cultural tourism, and investment.
“The Mission’s involvement reflects the Government’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Rwanda while advancing cultural diplomacy,” said Michael Bulwaka, Counsellor at the Mission. He added that the participation of Ugandan filmmakers aligns with national priorities to grow film, music, and digital content, especially through youth empowerment, skills development, and increased cultural exports.
Alongside the festival, the Kigali International Content Market brought together filmmakers, broadcasters, distributors, and cultural institutions from across Africa and beyond. Uganda’s presence offered filmmakers a chance to network, seek partnerships, and access new markets.
“The Content Market gives Ugandan creatives a real opportunity to collaborate with Rwandan partners and expand regional ties. We are grateful to the Uganda High Commission for supporting this,” said Godfrey Musinguzi, CEO of the Uganda Film and Culture Market, who led the Ugandan delegation.
During the opening ceremony at Serena Hotel on November 22, festival founder Mr Tressoh Senghor welcomed delegates and noted the rapid growth of Africa’s creative industries. He pointed to the festival’s first-ever decision to award both Best Actor and Actress as a sign of rising ambition and competitiveness.
Professor Martin Mhando of Murdoch University delivered the keynote address. He stressed the economic and cultural value of festivals, saying they shape national identity, strengthen regional bonds, and create long-term creative opportunities. He emphasised mentorship, youth-driven skills development, and culturally rooted innovation as essential for Africa’s creative future.
As East African integration deepens, Uganda has restated the importance of the creative economy as a driver of unity and global visibility. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it will continue supporting partnerships and dialogue to grow Uganda’s film sector and expand its regional impact.
