Kwiso Mu Cinema is a mobile community cinema initiative that uses film to educate, empower, and inspire young people across Uganda. Traditionally, youth empowerment initiatives are conducted through ad-hoc programs such as seminars and group discussions, among others.
However, a new approach, Kwiso Mu Cinema, anchored to Reach A Hand Uganda, has gained traction among young people in Uganda. More youth are attending local cinemas, eager for edutainment content. Mr Robert Kantu, Coordinator of Kwiso Mu Cinema, talks to us about this initiative.
Can you briefly tell us what Kwiso Mu Cinema is about?
Kwiso Mu Cinema is an initiative where we travel with a mobile cinema to local communities. We screen films for free and use them as a platform to educate and empower young people. The films tackle social issues and spark dialogue on topics that affect their daily lives.
What are the main objectives of the initiative?
The core objective is to engage communities through film. We interview locals to understand the challenges they face, such as drug abuse, early pregnancies among girls, and other social concerns. The films help them reflect on these issues and build positive narratives for the youth.
Where has Kwiso Mu Cinema conducted screenings so far?
We’ve reached many parts of the country, including Mukono, Lugazi, Arua, Kampala, and we are expanding to Mbarara. Other handy vendors attached to our team are also helping replicate the screenings in communities nationwide.
How do these screenings impact young people and communities?
The films are highly educational and create meaningful discussions. After screenings, people often tell us, “We didn’t know this,” or “We didn’t realise things could be like this.” That shift in mindset is an achievement in itself. It changes thinking and empowers people to make better decisions.
What are the plans for Kwiso Mu Cinema?
We plan to involve local and international SRHR experts to educate young people further about early pregnancies, sexual and reproductive health, and other youth-related issues. We continue mobilising communities, screening films, and ensuring that people have access to solutions through storytelling.
Why use film as a tool for education and empowerment?
Film is very effective because it reaches many people at once. When communities sit together to watch, they understand better than through one-on-one teaching. The messages stay in their minds, and that is how change begins.
Any final thoughts on Kwiso Mu Cinema’s impact?
We are seeing communities requesting more screenings, even from neighbours who didn’t attend initially. The initiative is making a real difference, helping young people think differently, make better choices, and aspire to a brighter future.
