ARUA — Filmmakers and creatives from across West Nile have welcomed the second iKON Society Creative Exchange, saying the initiative could create new markets for locally produced films and strengthen the region’s creative industry.
The creative exchange was held on 30th September 2026 at Letsuba Grand Hotel in Arua, bringing together filmmakers, actors and other creatives to share experiences, build networks and discuss what is needed to grow Uganda’s film industry beyond Kampala.
The discussions focused on strengthening training, networks and distribution channels to help filmmakers take their stories from production to wider audiences.Humphrey Nabimanya, CEO of Reach A Hand Africa, said his responsibility is to listen to filmmakers and ensure the iKON Society reflects the priorities of creatives building Uganda’s film industry across the country.
Nabimanya said filmmakers in West Nile are using their work to preserve culture, document history, address community issues and entertain audiences, adding that their talent needs stronger support to reach wider markets.
“West Nile is bigger than Arua, and Uganda’s film industry must be bigger than Kampala,” Nabimanya said.
He also highlighted the vision of creating an ecosystem where African filmmakers can thrive on the global stage, saying the vision speaks directly to the need for stronger support for creatives across Uganda.Meanwhile, Sanyu Doris, Executive Director of the West Nile Film Association, welcomed the initiative, saying it can empower local filmmakers by creating avenues to market and sell their films.Actors and filmmakers at the event also expressed optimism that a stronger market for locally produced films would allow them to showcase their work, reach audiences and earn from their productions.
Actress Hope Letasi encouraged the girl child to embrace acting and develop her talent, highlighting the creative industry as a space where young people can express themselves and build their skills.
The participants said the exchange provided an important platform for creatives to share experiences, build connections and identify areas requiring greater support.
The iKON Society Creative Exchange is part of efforts to connect filmmakers across Uganda and strengthen the country’s film industry beyond Kampala.
The creatives now look forward to turning the connections made during the exchange into stronger networks, wider distribution and a sustainable market for films produced in West Nile.
