The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Uganda and South Sudan, in collaboration with O Studios Entertainment, premiered the new Ugandan film Call 112 to a packed theatre at Century Cinemax in Kampala, marking a major moment in the intersection of cinema and civic education.
The film, directed by renowned Ugandan filmmaker Usama Mukwaya, delves into the growing threat of disinformation and its impact on democratic processes. Set during a heated parliamentary election campaign in the fictional Kebambe West constituency, Call 112 follows James, a struggling university student and TikToker played by Blair Koono.
Lured by the promise of quick money, James is recruited by a political operative to publish damaging content about incumbent MP Teopista Ndyanabo, played by veteran actress Mariam Ndagire. As the smear campaign intensifies, James finds himself caught in a moral and political web with dangerous consequences.
The plot resonates strongly in today’s digital age, where online influencers wield significant power over public perception. The film’s message underscores the ease with which disinformation can spread—especially when financial desperation meets political manipulation.
Speaking at the premiere, Anna Reismann, Country Representative for KAS Uganda and South Sudan, praised the filmmakers for addressing a critical issue facing Uganda and the world at large. “This film clearly shows how disinformation spreads in the internet age,” Reismann said. “Influencers are now key sources of information for young people, and unfortunately, they’re also targets for those who want to use them to spread conflict and chaos. Through Call 112, and with our partners at the Media Challenge Initiative (MCI), we intend to use storytelling to inform and educate university students about these dangers.”
Reismann announced that the film will not only run in cinemas but will also be screened at the MCI Media Hub in Kabalagala. A schedule will be published online to ensure wide accessibility for students, educators, and the general public.
The premiere coincides with growing global concern about the influence of digital falsehoods. The World Economic Forum’s 2025 Global Risk Report names disinformation and misinformation as the leading short-term threats to global stability. The report highlights how false narratives can erode trust, widen social divisions, and destabilize governance—issues vividly dramatized in Call 112.
Director Usama Mukwaya emphasized the urgency of the topic, noting how disinformation has become almost impossible to track or verify in the smartphone era. “We are all vulnerable,” Mukwaya said. “As a filmmaker, I felt compelled to use my craft to raise awareness about how serious and widespread this problem is. Call 112 is just a glimpse into the real consequences of unchecked digital manipulation.”
The film boasts a strong cast, including Kenny Rukundo, Peter Odeke (Queen of Katwe), Arthur Sewanyana (Damalie), Timothy Lwanga (Sanyu), and radio personality-turned-actor Ethan Kavuma. Behind the scenes, the film features cinematography by Alex Ireeta and was co-written by Mukwaya and Meddy Sserwadda. Producer Hadijah Nakajanko led the project under O Studios Entertainment.
Call 112 is now screening, with plans underway to extend its reach through academic institutions and community screenings.
