Art and culture lovers in Kampala enjoyed a memorable evening over the weekend during a special screening of the documentary Memories of Love Returned.
What many expected to be a simple cinema outing turned into a meaningful cultural gathering where people from different generations came together to celebrate history, love and the legacy of a little-known Ugandan photographer.
The documentary tells a powerful story that began more than two decades ago. In April 2002, a broken-down car in Mbirizi, a town in Masaka, unexpectedly led acclaimed Ugandan-American filmmaker Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine to the home of photographer Kibaate Aloysius Ssalongo.
Through his camera, Ssalongo documented life in his community from the late 1950s until his death in 2006. The film captures how Mwine rediscovered the photographer’s remarkable archive and worked over the years to restore and bring those images back to life, preserving an important piece of Uganda’s cultural history.
The themes of rediscovery and cultural pride closely align with the So UG So 60 campaign by Uganda Waragi, which is celebrating 60 years of bringing Ugandans together. The campaign highlights authentic Ugandan stories that reflect identity, heritage and shared experiences.
Speaking about the partnership with the film, Hilda Aguti, Marketing Manager for Uganda Waragi, said the documentary perfectly captures the essence of Ugandan storytelling.
“Mzee Kibaate’s lens captured the spirit of Mbirizi for over 50 years, and this screening is a celebration of the fact that our stories are finally being told by us and appreciated by the world. That is the Spirit of Uganda, and that is what we raise a glass to.”
Guests attending the screening first gathered at the Acacia Mall Rooftop where they were welcomed with specially prepared Uganda Waragi cocktails. The drinks menu was carefully inspired by the documentary, featuring creations such as the Kibaate Aloysius Ssalongo, the Akwat’empola Studio and the Kabalungi Mbirizi. Each drink served as a creative tribute to the photographer and the studio that captured the everyday life of his community.
The audience itself reflected the spirit of the film, bringing together some of the most influential names in Uganda’s arts and cultural scene. Among those present were musician Maurice Kirya, filmmakers Matthew Nabwiso and Eleanor Nabwiso, as well as business leader Maria Kiwanuka.
Members of Ssalongo’s family also attended the event, with some travelling to Kampala for only the second time. Their presence added an emotional touch to the evening as they watched their relative’s work finally receive the recognition it deserves.
After the cocktail reception, guests moved into the cinema hall where the documentary was screened. As the lights dimmed and the story unfolded on screen, the evening became a powerful reminder that Uganda’s stories continue to live on through art, memory and the determination to preserve the country’s cultural heritage.
