Funded by the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions, the project has received a $99,960 (about Shs 370million grant) from the International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD).
Dr. Ruth Tusasirwe Muguta, Principal Social Development Officer at the Ministry, told reporters that the project’s objective to use digital technology to promote sustainable growth and enhance livelihoods within the film industry.
The REFILE project will cover Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Ethiopia, focusing on creating opportunities for young people and women, thus driving inclusive development in the region.
“The project aims to map and establish a network of professional organizations for film and content creators across Eastern Africa,” Dr. Muguta stated.
“We aim to widen the market for audio-visual products through collective e-distribution beyond borders. By enhancing the skills of women and young IT personnel in digital communication and managing over-the-top (OTT) platforms, we can ensure sustainable growth and development.”
A significant component of the REFILE project includes the establishment of a seamless streaming Video-on-Demand platform, aptly named Stream East.
This platform will enhance the visibility of regional content, providing a digital space where filmmakers can showcase and sell their work to a broader audience. Additionally, the project will foster collaboration among film practitioners in Eastern Africa, promoting a multi-national rapport to address common challenges and opportunities in the industry.
Julius Mzee Bwanika, Executive Secretary of Pearlwood, one of the project’s key partners, highlighted the critical issue of market access for content creators.
“From the studies we have done, the core problem of the film sector is the market. The moment we solve the problem of where content creators can sell their content, we are on top of the problem,” he explained.
Bwanika noted that once a viable market is established, filmmakers will be able to earn a living from their work, which will, in turn, foster growth and innovation within the sector.
The project builds on the success of previous initiatives, such as the 2019/21 EU/UNESCO Film project in Uganda, which laid the groundwork for structured growth in the country’s film industry.
With the launch of REFILE, Uganda and its partners aim to create a more resilient, inclusive, and digitally advanced film industry that can compete on a global scale.
Key partners involved in the project include the National Information and Technology Authority of Uganda (NITA-U), the Rwanda Development Board, the Tanzania Filmmakers Association, Ethio Ark wood Entertainment, Biz IT Solutions, Eleven Tech Abots from India, and Pearlwood. These collaborations are expected to drive the project’s success, ensuring that it delivers on its promise to enhance visibility, create employment opportunities, and promote positive cultural values across the region.
The REFILE project officially commenced on August 29, 2024, and will run for one year. During this period, a series of activities will be undertaken, including tourism excursions, networking events, and the establishment of the Stream East platform. The project will not only benefit filmmakers and cultural practitioners but also engage the general public in celebrating the diverse cultural expressions of Eastern Africa.
