Any documentary lovers on the web today? Well, not many enjoy documentaries—some find them a tad bit boring—but we all love a good story and a good trip down memory lane, which is why, even though you’re not a big fan of documentaries, these particular ones will have you sit tight and watch start to finish. After all, there’s a first time for everything—perhaps one of these will be your introduction to the genre.
(1). Bobi Wine: The People’s President
If you’ve been a Ugandan for a while—born in the 90s—then the Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu you know now is most definitely not the same as the one a few decades ago, back when Jose Chameleone, Bebe Cool, and music that made sense were at the forefront. The times of songs like ‘Nekolera Maali,’ ‘Kiwaani’ and other such gems back in the day. The ghetto president, from slums to mansions, a child raised of toil and hustle… But if you are one of us born more recently, then the Bobi wine you know is an entirely different story—and by a long shot. I mean, his hair is kempt these days, the eyes are clear, and even his dress code is something else…
Bobi Wine: The People’s President is a 2022 documentary following the journey of Bobi Wine, a musician-turned-politician, as he takes on Uganda’s long-standing leadership. The film chronicles his rise from the slums of Kamwokya to a powerful political voice, highlighting his struggles, resilience, and the brutal opposition he faces…
If you’re interested in the intersection of music, activism, and politics in Uganda, this is a must-watch— even for those who don’t usually watch documentaries. It’s raw, emotional, and inspiring. Plus, it won a Peabody Award, so you know it’s top-tier storytelling. On top of that, it’s a Bobi wine documentary—who would not want to watch that?
(2). General Idi Amin Dada: A Self-Portrait
If you want to understand Uganda’s past, with a feeling of shock at how far we have moved, look no further than this chilling 1974 documentary by Barbet Schroeder. Unlike typical political documentaries where the protagonist is viewed from afar, General Idi Amin Dada: A Self-Portrait gives Idi Amin himself a microphone—quite literally with him centre stage and participating. The self-proclaimed Last King of Scotland, general of generals and other such titles take viewers on a wild, sometimes absurd and humorous, other times terrifying, ride through his iron-clad leadership, unshakable decision-making, and no-nonsense kind of aura.
Expect military drills, delusional speeches, and a dictator who truly believed he was the greatest force to happen to Africa… It’s an eerie yet fascinating glimpse into one of Uganda’s most infamous leaders, I, for one, loved this one despite my indifference toward documentaries about people.
(3). Mr. Ability
Of course, this isn’t about politics and political figures—after all, it’s a list of must-watch Uganda documentaries and stories, not just politicians.
Mr. Ability is a heartwarming documentary, directed by Joel Okuyo Atiku Prynce, telling the story of Simon Peter Lubega, an artisan in Kampala who, despite living with disabilities, showcases incredible craftsmanship. Released in 2016, the film challenges societal stereotypes and proves that ability is not defined by physical limitations but rather by attitude and self-pity.
For me, this story highlighted how many of us blame our struggles for holding us back, when in reality, it’s our mindset and determination that shape where we end up. So, if you need a dose of motivation with a Ugandan touch, this documentary is for you.
(4). A Kalabanda Ate My Homework
Alright, we’re cheating a bit—A Kalabanda Ate My Homework is actually an animated short film, but trust me, it belongs on this list. Based on a Ugandan folk tale, the story follows Tendo, a student who claims that a mythical creature (the Kalabanda) ate his homework. For the ‘Muzungu’ audience, this is the equivalent of your kid claiming the dog ate her homework, except Tendo’s dog is a creature of mystique. (Hahah, I feel like j.r.r. Tolkein for that ‘creature of mystique’ line.) It’s for those who want a light-hearted yet meaningful look into Uganda’s folklore, and quite frankly it’s on this list because I believe we all need a laugh every now and then, even here…
(5). Kony: Order from Above
This is not your usual documentary—it’s a feature film inspired by real-life events surrounding the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) insurgency. Directed by Steve T. Ayeny, Kony: Order from Above tells the heartbreaking story of two young lovers separated by war, and through their eyes, we see the horrors of child abductions and the devastating effects of the LRA’s reign of terror.
It’s a heavy but necessary watch for anyone looking to understand one of Uganda’s darkest periods. I watched this one for the history.
(6). The Girl in the Yellow Jumper
Directed by Loukman Ali, this film made history as the first Ugandan movie on Netflix, as we covered in Is Ugandan Cinema Just Kateemba. While not a documentary in the traditional sense, it provides some glimpse into modern Uganda, with the story following a man who escapes from captivity and returns with a shocking tale.
With its masterful storytelling and slick cinematography, this one is for lovers of suspenseful, well-crafted African cinema…bit of course. If you have some idea of Ugandan Cinema, then I suppose you won’t be too surprised by what you find in this one😂.
(7). Queen of Katwe
Okay, I’m cheating again—Queen of Katwe isn’t a documentary but a movie based on a true story, and it’s definitely worth mentioning.
Queen of Katwe (2016) tells the inspiring journey of Phiona Mutesi, a young girl from the slums of Katwe, Kampala, who discovers a passion for chess and actually sees it through, (it’s pretty hard, trust me—I can’t even count the times I have given up on passions).
Under the mentorship of Robert Katende, she rises from playing on makeshift boards to becoming a chess champion representing Uganda on the international stage.
This one hits differently because it’s not just about chess—it’s about resilience, opportunity, and proving that where you come from doesn’t define where you can go, You have probably seen the “I come from humble beginnings hoping to change the script” kind of quote from many hustlers…well, one of our own has done it again.
The film features Lupita Nyong’o and David Oyelowo, so you know the acting is top-tier. If you need a feel-good, underdog story with a strong Ugandan heart, Queen of Katwe is your watch.
In light of all this, it’s clear that Uganda is a land of diverse stories, rich culture, and a complex history. We may not always showcase it, but we have plenty to offer, that’s for sure. These documentaries and films help paint a picture of what the country is all about—from past struggles to its modern-day triumphs. Whether you’re into politics, folklore, activism, or suspenseful storytelling, there’s something on this list for you…a short list, but then again you are not going to binge-watch everything now, are you?
That said, for any kind of list you wish to be made for your reading taste, drop in a comment and we’ll make one for you.
In the meantime, grab some popcorn, turn on your screen, and prepare to see Uganda in a whole new light…or an old one seeing as these are documentaries!
