Kavuma Vieri Mwanje: Crafting Stories That Redefine Uganda’s Film Narrative

From smartphone filmmaking to international recognition, Kavuma Vieri Mwanje, also known as A One Kavuma, is a passionate Ugandan filmmaker breaking boundaries with his heartfelt and relatable stories.

Kavuma Vieri Mwanje, widely known as A One Kavuma, is a talented Ugandan film director, screenwriter, cinematographer, editor, and producer. Born on July 12, 1998, Kavuma’s filmmaking journey began in 2018, inspired by renowned Ugandan filmmaker Loukman Ali. Equipped with nothing but his smartphone and YouTube tutorials, Kavuma started teaching himself the art of filmmaking, eventually founding his own production brand, Slim Snaps.

In 2023, Kavuma debuted his first short film, WHY DID YOU GIVE ME 49?, and followed it up with the intriguing THREESOME in 2024. His breakthrough came with THE BOY FROM KAMPALA, a deeply personal project inspired by his own life, which earned him the International Trade Center award, funded by the EU. The film’s impact continued with notable selections at international platforms like Lift-Off Global Sessions by Pinewood Studios in the UK and Varsity Film Expo 24 in Zambia, where it received an Honorable Mention.

Kavuma's works resonate because they explore overlooked themes, highlighting life’s day-to-day struggles, love, and resilience. He believes storytelling creates an authentic image of Africa - one that portrays the continent as strong, vibrant, and resilient, countering the biased narratives often told by outsiders.

When asked about the challenges he’s faced, Kavuma candidly admits that self-funding projects has been his greatest hurdle. To overcome this, he actively seeks collaborations and external funding opportunities. Despite these struggles, his love for filmmaking keeps him going. “It’s fun getting paid for doing your hobby,” he says.

Kavuma’s mantra, “Just Don’t Be Boring,” reflects his dedication to crafting captivating and unique stories. He encourages aspiring filmmakers with these wise words: “Don’t fear to start small, don’t fear to make mistakes.”

Looking ahead, Kavuma aims to tell “the craziest Ugandan stories” - stories that can compete globally but remain authentically Ugandan. “The future of Uganda’s film industry is so bright, we’ll need sunglasses all the time,” he adds with a smile.

Kavuma Vieri Mwanje’s work is a testament to Africa’s untapped creativity and potential, as he continues to inspire others through his storytelling. To witness his journey and explore his films, follow him on:

• YouTube: Slim Snaps
• Instagram: kavuma_vieri