After close to two years of closure of the Ugandan arts, creative and cultural industry. The sector was officially re-opened at the National Theatre on Friday 19th February 2022 through a grand opening event organized by UNCC- Uganda National Culture Centre, the government body in charge of the sector under the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social development.
We have opened for artists to make money and also be more creative. Artists are now free to come and utilize our theatre and perform for the public,”
“Government has supported us with a stimulus fund which has enabled us do E-concerts,” Ojede added. The event that was organized in partnership with the France Embassy in Uganda had H.E Jules-Armand Aniambossou, the Ambassador of France to Uganda who pledged support to the arts and culture sector. “We are still available to work, support the sector and fight the copyright problem.” he said.
The event was interluded with a theatre play called ‘COBWEB’ written and directed by Loius Muhereza and a performance “MY COUNTRY UGANDA” by legendary musician, Diplock Segawa who did it with the Quintet band led by Ronnie Nsereko. These were followed by various other activities like touring of the UNCC Facility, awarding of certificates to the past participants in the Skills enhancement workshops.
Robert Musiitwa, the Public Relations Officer revealed that with the help of the French Embassy, the Centre trained artists on how to enhance their art work during the COVID 19 lockdown. Some of the works like theatre designing, directing, design and costume making that were showcased on during the day were trained during the lockdown, according to Musiitwa. Through their social platforms, the Centre thanked and appreciated all the people that came through for the event.
Uganda National Cultural Centre is a statutory body set up on 8th October 1959 under the Uganda National Culture Centre act 1959 as was amended in 1965 with the purpose of promoting, preserving and developing and popularizing Uganda’s Cultural heritage both locally and internationally.
