The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has postponed the 2026 Uganda Film Festival following government directives restricting mass gatherings in Kampala Metropolitan Area due to the Ebola outbreak.
In a statement issued on Thursday, UCC said the decision followed guidance from the National Taskforce on Ebola Response and the Ministry of Health as part of efforts to contain the spread of the virus.
The postponement affects all festival activities, including film screenings, workshops and the Uganda Film Festival Awards Gala, which had been scheduled for June 5, 2026.
According to UCC, the move follows a Ministry of Health circular issued on May 26 restricting public gatherings within the Kampala Metropolitan Area.
“While we recognise the disappointment this may cause to filmmakers, nominees, sponsors, exhibitors and festival audiences, the health and safety of the public remains our highest priority,” the statement said.
UCC described the postponement as a precautionary measure aimed at supporting the national Ebola response and protecting communities during the outbreak.
The commission said it is working closely with government authorities and stakeholders, adding that new dates for the festival will be announced once it is deemed safe to proceed.
The Uganda Film Festival is one of the country’s major annual entertainment events, bringing together filmmakers, actors, producers and creative industry players from across the region.
UCC urged the public to continue following Ministry of Health guidelines and to remain vigilant as the country responds to the Ebola situation.
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