The iKON Awards has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with veteran Ugandan actor Michael Wawuyo Sr, securing his role in the upcoming Nigerian drama film, Dambe.
The project is powered by Ramsey Films, Sozo Films Limited, BRS Studios, and Sauti Plus Media Hub. Renowned Nollywood actor and director Ramsey Nouah will helm the film, highlighting the high-profile nature of this cross-border collaboration.
The MoU signing took place at the Reach A Hand Uganda (RAHU) offices in Lungujja.
This initiative is part of the iKON Awards Exchange Programme, designed to foster collaboration between Ugandan and Nigerian filmmakers.
Through the programme, Ugandan actors gain exposure to the broader African film market while strengthening cultural ties between the industries.
Michael Wawuyo Sr, a recipient of the iKON Lifetime Achievement Award, will travel to Nigeria on 27 September 2025 to begin work on Dambe.
His casting marks a milestone for Ugandan representation on the continental cinematic stage.
Born on 11 November 1948, Michael Wawuyo Sr. is a veteran actor and special effects artist with a career spanning over three decades.
He debuted in Mississippi Masala (1991) and has starred in international and local productions, including The Last King of Scotland, Sometimes in April, Kony: Order from Above, The Mercy of the Jungle, Situka, and The Boda Boda Thieves.
On television, he has featured in Yat Madit, Power of Legacy, and currently stars in Crossroads on Pearl Magic.
As a special effects and makeup artist, Wawuyo has contributed to films such as The Felista’s Fable, Imbabazi: The Pardon, and The Mercy of the Jungle.
His Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2024 iKON Awards reflects his enduring influence in Ugandan and African cinema.
Speaking at the signing, Wawuyo Sr. praised the initiative:
"I commend iKON and Sauti Plus for putting a new flavour into uplifting the film industry, which is tremendous," he said, emphasizing the importance of collaboration as a stepping stone to further developing the sector.
Humphrey Nabimanya, founder of the iKON Awards and Chief Creative Officer of Sauti Plus Media Hub, described the agreement as a dream realized:
"We are passionate about building the next generation of filmmakers. One of our long-standing goals was to see Ugandan actors featured in major films across Africa," Nabimanya said.
"This MoU moves us from simply visiting other markets to actively collaborating and co-producing, opening doors for Ugandan talent to reach international markets, just as we see in music."
The signing also precedes iKON Activate, an upcoming initiative under the iKON Awards designed to foster continental collaborations and grow Africa’s creative economy.
As part of the broader exchange programme, a delegation of Ugandan filmmakers will travel to Lagos next weekend to network, learn, and collaborate with Nigerian counterparts.
The iKON Awards is Uganda’s premier annual celebration of film and television creativity, excellence, and innovation.
It recognizes exceptional talent, projects, and contributions that elevate the creative industry locally and internationally.
The collaboration with Wawuyo Sr and the Nigerian film industry further cements iKON Awards’ role in building continental networks and showcasing African talent on a global stage.
Several Nollywood actors are also expected to participate in the iKON Awards 2026, highlighting the event’s growing continental scope.