Over the weekend in Gaborone, Botswana, Uganda made waves on the international film scene as UNHEARD swept three of the most coveted awards at the Bantu Film Festival Awards Night.
The critically acclaimed movie walked away with:
- Best Feature Film
- Best Director – Joseph Ken Ssebagala
- Best Writer – Polly Kamukama
Producer and writer Polly Kamukama proudly accepted the honours, flying the Ugandan flag high and showcasing the country’s growing influence in the global film industry.
Adding to the celebratory atmosphere, Uganda’s Honorary Consul in Botswana, Dr. Sebastian Okello-Wengi, and his wife Caroline were in attendance to support the team and celebrate this historic win.
About UNHEARD: A Story of Courage and Defiance
UNHEARD tells the powerful story of a young mother challenging entrenched cultural and gender expectations in a conservative fishing community in southwestern Uganda.
The film highlights the struggles of women in traditional societies, while also celebrating resilience, bravery, and self-determination. It has quickly become one of the most successful projects supported by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) under its Content Development Support Program, proving the global appeal of authentic Ugandan storytelling.
“This film was made on a budget of Ush 150 million and has already earned multiple nominations and awards both locally and internationally,” noted Kamukama.
A Historic Win for Uganda
The success of UNHEARD at the Bantu Film Festival marks a historic moment for Uganda’s film industry, demonstrating that local stories can resonate on an international stage. Fans and film enthusiasts praised the production for its high-quality storytelling, direction, and social impact, placing Uganda firmly on the cinematic map.
“Congratulations to the entire cast and crew of UNHEARD for this incredible achievement,” said one fan on social media, echoing the excitement of the Ugandan film community.
What’s Next for UNHEARD?
With the recognition from Botswana, UNHEARD is poised to reach even larger audiences globally, opening doors for screenings, festivals, and future collaborations that highlight Uganda’s vibrant film industry.
The film’s success reinforces the importance of investing in local content and shows that compelling, culturally rooted stories can inspire audiences worldwide.
“This award is not just for us — it’s for every Ugandan storyteller pushing boundaries and sharing our voices with the world,” Kamukama added.
Stay tuned for more updates on Ugandan films making international waves! Have you watched UNHEARD yet? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
