KAMPALA, Uganda — The Ugandan film industry must prioritize telling its own authentic, native stories to captivate international audiences, according to acclaimed Hollywood actor and producer Gbenga Akinnagbe.
Akinnagbe, widely recognized for his powerful portrayal of Chris Partlow in HBO’s “The Wire,” delivered the message Saturday during a dynamic engagement with Ugandan film stakeholders at UCC House in Bugoloobi, Kampala.
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The high-profile visit, spearheaded by Ambassador Abbey Walusimbi, the presidential advisor on diaspora affairs, brought together local film producers, actors, and industry professionals. The event provided a platform for them to connect with Akinnagbe and share knowledge on global industry standards and opportunities.
Speaking passionately, Akinnagbe emphasized the growing global appetite for culturally rich narratives.
“I highly recommend that Uganda also make stories in their own native languages, so people really learn like that,” Akinnagbe said. “Uganda, like anyone else, has beautiful, tragic, and heroic stories that are about the human experience. I think that attracts international markets.”
He underscored that the quality of filmmaking — the “craft” — is paramount, even more so than networking or financing.
“If you can’t make anything good, no one’s going to want to see it. No one’s going to be able to relate to it. Work on your craft, the people you’re supposed to be working with will come. Trust the process,” he advised.
Akinnagbe also highlighted the burgeoning industry’s need for formal structures, particularly the consistent use of contracts to protect both creatives and investors.
“Most people here work without contracts,” he noted. “But the industry is growing, and with that growth comes the need for systems that protect both creatives and investors. Necessity is the mother of invention. So now, because you need it, you invent contracts.”
Expressing deep admiration for Uganda after just a few days in the country, Akinnagbe said he was “already in love.” He thanked Ambassador Walusimbi and the Ugandan government for the warm welcome.
“The people are amazing. Africa is my own. Uganda is my own,” he stated. “Anything I can do to shine a light on the variety of amazing stories and opportunities that exist here I’m going to do it.”
Isaac Kigozi, Senior Principal Trade and Investment Officer at the Office of the President Diaspora Affairs, applauded President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his ongoing support for Uganda’s arts sector. He encouraged filmmakers to prioritize knowledge and networking, stating that “Cash matters, but knowledge is king.”
Kigozi emphasized the role of collaborations, urging filmmakers to “Step out, link up, and make Uganda’s voice roar.” He reaffirmed the commitment of the Office of the President – Diaspora Affairs, in partnership with UCC, to ensuring the film industry thrives.
Amanya, a marketing officer at UCC, welcomed Akinnagbe’s visit as a step toward exposing local talent to international practices, which he said “builds our capacity and encourages local filmmakers.”
Mathew Nabwiso, a film director and President of the Uganda Producers Guild, praised the engagement for offering a platform to share knowledge and tackle industry challenges. He also stressed the importance of filmmakers joining collecting societies to ensure they receive royalties.
During an interactive session, local producers and actors questioned Akinnagbe on branding and promoting their craft internationally. The Hollywood star encouraged them to remain committed to telling compelling stories with high production quality, assuring them that “consistency and excellence would eventually open international doors.”
“Keep working and keep making the quality better,” Akinnagbe advised. “There are so many film companies in the U.S. currently discussing how to get stories from Africa because they know the continent is rich with powerful narratives. So keep working, the opportunities are there.”
Akinnagbe is an acclaimed actor and producer, best known for his role as Chris Partlow in “The Wire.” His recent credits include “Power Book II: Ghost,” “The Old Man,” and festival hits “Rob Peace” and “Asphalt City.”
