Kampala’s Serena Hotel was the place to be on Saturday, March 29th, 2025, as Uganda’s film and television industry gathered for the prestigious iKon Awards. The annual event recognizes outstanding contributions to film, TV, and mainstream media in Uganda and across Africa.
This year’s edition was nothing short of spectacular, with creators, actors, and industry professionals taking home well-deserved honors. Among the biggest winners of the night was Makula by Nisha Kalema, securing Best Film, Best Screenplay, and Best Director.
Nollywood legends Kanayo Kanayo and Patience Ozokwo were honored with the African iKon Award for their influence in African cinema.
Rising star Iradukunda Rebecca was recognized as a promising force in the industry, while Abby Mukiibi Nkaaga took home the Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to Ugandan entertainment.
Below is the complete list of winners:
Film & TV Categories
- Best Documentary Film: A History of Film in Uganda – Timothy Niwamanya
- Best Animation Film: Kataleya – Denis Junior Dhikusooka
- Best Visual Effects (VFX): The Lions Of Buganda
- Best Student Film: The Chicken Thief – Enock Timothy Jjemba
- Best Short Film: Jimbi – Tusabe Ivan
- Best Sound Design: Karamoja – Isiko Abubaker
- Best Editing: Soccer Heart – Kizito Sudaisy Ssebowa
- Best Makeup: The Lions of Buganda – Nabakiibi Joan, Latifah Nabatanzi, Rutaro Abel
- Best Costume Design: Maria – Tazibone Solomon
- Best Production Design: Manual – Imran Musabbeh
Special Recognitions
- African iKON Award: Kanayo Kanayo, Patience Ozokwo
- Rising Star Award: Iradukunda Rebecca
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Abby Mukiibi Nkaaga
Acting & TV Awards
- Best TV Series: Sanyu – Mathew Nabwiso
- Best Actor in a TV Series: Abby Mukiibi Nkaaga
- Best Actress in a TV Series: Dianah Nabatanzi (JDC)
- Best Actress in a Film: Pelly Penina Nampanga (Maria)
- Best Actor in a Film: Issa Masadde Yusuf (Soccer Heart)
- Best Supporting Actress in a Film: Nana Kagga (Maria)
- Best Supporting Actor in a Film: Bwanika Felix Baale (Sekukkulu)
Filmmaking Excellence
- Best Cinematography: Alex Ireeta (Soccer Heart)
- Best Screenplay: Makula – Nisha Kalema
- Best Director: Makula – Nisha Kalema & Dan Mugisha
- Best Film: Makula – Nisha Kalema
The iKon Awards continue to set the stage for Uganda’s film and television industry, spotlighting the best talent and storytelling excellence.
Congratulations to all the winners!
