Northern Uganda Marks a Milestone: Highlights from the Inaugural Northern Uganda Film Awards.
Gulu, Uganda — April 26, 2025
History was made last weekend as the Northern Uganda Film Makers Association (NUFA) rolled out the red carpet for the first edition of the Northern Uganda Film Awards (NUFA Awards) — a night filled with glamour, excitement, and powerful storytelling.
Held in the heart of Gulu City, the awards gala brought together the finest talents in Northern Uganda’s film industry. From rising stars to seasoned filmmakers, the energy in the room was electric, with dreams realized and history written.
Hon. Betty Amongi, Uganda’s Minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, served as the Guest of Honor. In a heartfelt keynote speech, she praised NUFA’s visionary leadership for creating a platform that not only recognizes creative excellence but also empowers youth and celebrates cultural heritage.
“Tonight, we celebrate not just films, but the dreams, voices, and futures of Northern Uganda. Our stories matter and through initiatives like the NUFA Awards, we are rewriting our narrative for the world to see," Hon. Amongi said, drawing a standing ovation.
The evening was filled with emotional award speeches, powerful performances, and a deep sense of pride in Northern Uganda’s cultural identity. Each winner showcased the incredible diversity and creativity flourishing across the region.
Here’s the full list of the 2025 NUFA Award winners:
Best Hair/Makeup: Nimaro Precious (One Last Puff)
Best Costume Designer: Jazira (My Culture Karamoja)
Best Lighting: Omuta Dennis (As I Dream)
Best Sound: The Crush
Best Original Soundtrack: Don't Mess With Me (Aturu Daniela)
Best Cinematography: Otim Elvis Dan (The Crush)
Best Editor: Okullu Sylvester (As I Dream)
Best Screenplay: Tears of Akello
Best Short Film: One Last Puff
Best Documentary: Echo Nyumbani
Best Actor in a Short Film: Odong Moriss (One Last Puff)
Best Actress in a Short Film: Auma Dilish (Shame of Puberty)
Best Actor in a Feature Film: Moses Agenonga (Don't Look Back)
Best Actress in a Feature Film: Hon. Lucica Rose (Tears of Akello)
Best Director: Acan Eunice (As I Dream)
Northern Uganda Film Award: Barbara Akello aka Abonyo Sylvia Rose (Wek Abonyo Kwani)
Best Feature Film Award: Tears of Akello
One of the night’s most emotional highlights was the standing ovation for Barbara Akello, aka Abonyo Sylvia Rose, honored with the Northern Uganda Film Award for her outstanding contribution to the film industry.
The Best Feature Film award went to Tears of Akello, a gripping story that captured hearts and showcased the storytelling excellence emerging from the region.
Organizers from NUFA promised that this is just the beginning. Plans are already underway to expand the event next year, with more workshops, film screenings, and opportunities for young filmmakers. Northern Uganda’s voice in cinema has risen, and the world is ready to listen.
Story by Cinema UG