MultiChoice Uganda, a leading provider of Pay TV entertainment, recently hosted an exclusive masterclass aimed at equipping Ugandan filmmakers and content creators with essential film skills, with a particular focus on casting for film.
Held at the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) offices in Bugolobi as part of the celebrations for Pearl Magic Prime’s 4th anniversary, the training attracted both emerging and established industry players.
Themed “Casting for Film,” the masterclass aimed to enhance filmmakers’ capacity to select the right talent for their productions, ensuring they meet the expectations and requirements of content buyers. Participants also gained valuable insights into industry challenges such as content piracy, strategies for monetization, and the production of high-quality content suitable for platforms like Pearl Magic Prime and Pearl Magic.
Rinaldi Jamugisa, PR and Communications Manager at MultiChoice Uganda reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting the local film industry through continuous training initiatives.
“This masterclass is part of MultiChoice Uganda’s ongoing efforts to empower filmmakers with the skills necessary to create quality productions. Over the years, we have invested in multiple training programs, including regional workshops in collaboration with UCC, to enhance industry standards,” Jamugisa stated.
Addressing the pressing issue of piracy, he emphasized, “We remain dedicated to nurturing local talent and providing platforms for their work to thrive. As content piracy continues to rise, filmmakers must take steps to protect their work. Without proper safeguards, their efforts risk going unrewarded, making it harder to sustain their craft and grow the industry.”
Juliane Mweheire, Director of Industry Affairs and Content Development at UCC, commended MultiChoice for its investment in Uganda’s creative sector and highlighted the regulatory support available for content creators.
“UCC remains committed to fostering an enabling environment for filmmakers and content creators to flourish. We have introduced initiatives such as the Uganda Film Festival, our content development support program, and specialized training sessions to support the industry. We encourage filmmakers to use these opportunities to grow their craft and access larger markets. Collaborations like this with MultiChoice are crucial in building a vibrant and sustainable film industry in Uganda.”
As part of MultiChoice’s broader mission to empower the local film industry, the company has consistently conducted similar training sessions in partnership with UCC and other stakeholders over the years.
The masterclass also provided filmmakers with guidance on submitting their productions for potential commissioning and licensing on M-Net platforms, presenting an invaluable opportunity for local content creators to expand their reach.
Brian Mulondo, Local Content Marketing Manager at MultiChoice Uganda, emphasized the company’s continued commitment to supporting the creative industry through capacity-building programs.
“At MultiChoice, we recognize the vital role high-quality local content plays in telling authentic Ugandan stories. Through this masterclass, we are equipping filmmakers with essential skills, from casting the right talent to protecting their work against piracy and effectively monetizing their content,” Mulondo noted.
Kasule Douglas Benda, a leading casting director in Uganda’s film industry, urged filmmakers to adopt a more strategic approach to talent selection.
“There is an abundance of untapped talent across the country that remains undiscovered. Filmmakers need to move away from repeatedly casting the same faces in similar roles across different productions. This creates monotony and stifles the industry’s growth,” Kasule advised.
MultiChoice remains dedicated to being Africa’s leading storyteller by supporting local content and talent while collaborating with key stakeholders to provide value to viewers as part of its hyper-local strategy.
Uganda’s creative industry continues to be a significant contributor to the national economy, offering employment to thousands and generating revenue through film, television, music, and digital content. Initiatives like this masterclass, facilitated by MultiChoice Uganda in partnership with UCC, play a vital role in nurturing talent and strengthening the country’s competitive edge in the global entertainment landscape.