iKon Awards 2025: A Night of Glamour, Celebration, and Major Industry Announcements

Kampala, Uganda – The iKon Awards 2025 illuminated the Serena Hotel in Kampala on Saturday, March 29, as Africa’s brightest creators in film, music, and media were celebrated for their outstanding contributions to the entertainment industry. 

The prestigious event brought together top figures, embracing African heritage and excellence.
Dressed in stunning African attire, attendees graced the occasion with cultural elegance, making the night a visual spectacle. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the African iKon of the Year awards, delivered by Humphrey Nabimanya, Founder of the iKon Awards. 

He was joined by esteemed personalities, including Nigerian film legend Ramsey Nouah, Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) Executive Director Nyombi Thembo, George Kigozi from Reach A Hand Uganda, Presidential Advisor on Creatives Eddy Kenzo, and Talent Africa CEO Aly Allibhai.
Major Industry Announcement
A significant moment of the night came when celebrated Ugandan actor and producer Mathew Nabwiso announced the formation of the Uganda Film Producers Guild. 

This initiative marks a crucial step in advancing Uganda’s film industry, aiming to foster collaboration and elevate local filmmaking to global standards.
African Excellence in the Spotlight
During his acceptance speech for the African iKon Award, veteran Nigerian actor Kanayo O. Kanayo emphasized the economic potential of film, calling it “the new oil.”
“Wherever you go in the world, Nigeria stands tall. When you board a flight from Uganda to New York, you watch Nigerian movies on Netflix, Showmax, and in cinemas.

 What does that tell you? Film is the new oil. We have achieved this in Nigeria, and Uganda can do the same by collaborating and building strong partnerships,” he said.
Fellow honoree and legendary actress Patience Ozokwo used the platform to advocate for increased female participation in the film industry, urging for inclusivity and empowerment.
The Winners of the Night
The iKon Awards recognized top talent across multiple categories. Below is the full list of winners:
Best Film – Makula (Nisha Kalema)Best Director – Nisha Kalema & Dan Mugisha (Makula)Best Actor in a Leading Role – Issa Massade Yusuf (Soccer Heart)Best Actress in a Leading Role – Pelly Peninah Nampanga (Maria)Best Screenplay – Makula (Nisha Kalema)Best Cinematography – Alex Ireeta (Soccer Heart)Best Actor in a Supporting Role – Bwanika Baale Felix (Ssekukkulu)Best Actress in a Supporting Role – Nana Kagga (Maria)Best TV Series – Sanyu (Mathew Nabwiso)Best Actor in a TV Series – Abby Mukiibi Nkaaga (Sanyu)Best Actress in a TV Series – Diana Nabatanzi (JDC)Best Costume Design – Maria (Tazibone Solomon)Best Makeup and Special Effects – The Lions of Buganda (Nabakiibi Joana Jojo, Latifah Nabatanzi, Rutaro Abell)Best Production Design – Makula (Imran Musabbeh)Best Sound Design – Karamoja (Isiko Abubaker)Best Editing – Soccer Heart (Kizito Sudaisy Sebowa)Best Animation Film – Kataleya (Denis Junior Dhikusooka)Best Documentary – A History of Film in Uganda (Timothy Niwamanya)Best Visual Effects – The Lions of Buganda (Patrick Chris Black, Faysal Mukalazi)Best Short Film – Jimbi (Tusabe Ivan)Best Student Film – The Chicken Thief (Enock Timothy Jjemba)Emerging Film Award – Ssekukkulu (Sharon Ishimwe)iKon Rising Star – Iradukunda Rebecca HopeLifetime Achievement Award – Abby Mukiibi NkaagaiKon Rising Star – Africa – Liyabona MroqozaAfrican iKon Award – Patience Ozokwor & Kanayo O. KanayoiKon Fellowship – Film of the Year – Take My Hand
Looking Ahead
The iKon Awards 2025 not only celebrated excellence but also set the stage for future collaborations and industry growth. With the newly announced Uganda Film Producers Guild and inspiring messages from industry veterans, the Ugandan film industry is poised for a promising future on the international stage.
As the curtains closed on a night of glitz and recognition, one message rang clear—African talent is thriving, and the world is taking notice.

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