KAMPALA, Uganda — Two alumni of the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) received top honors at the recent IKON Awards, winning in competitive categories and highlighting the program’s growing influence in Africa’s film industry.
Isiko Abubaker won Best Sound Design for his work on the feature film “Karamoja,” while Ivan Tusabe, along with a team of fellow MTF alumni, won Best Short Film for “Jimbi,” a fantasy-horror story addressing the consequences of inaction.
“Jimbi” tells the story of Kisitu, a young man who witnesses a sexual assault and remains silent. His decision leads to a mysterious skin rash that threatens to transform him into a creature called a “Jimbi.” The 15-minute short film has been recognized for its compelling narrative and portrayal of bystander guilt. Before the IKON Awards, “Jimbi” won Best Film, Best Soundtrack, and Best Actor (Atuhaire Emmanuel) at the recent UCC Regional Film Competition.
The film was a collaborative effort among MTF alumni. Tusabe served as screenwriter and director, with Talemwa Pius and Nalunga Hannah as producers. Tamale was the script supervisor, and Charles Sejjemba was the production assistant. Docubox Kenya funded the project through its Get Reel program, which supports films raising awareness about Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR).
Tusabe said winning at IKON was “a dream come true” and that “Jimbi was born from a deep need to tell stories that challenge and inspire.” He credited the recognition to the “entire team of passionate creatives who poured their hearts into it.”
Isiko described sound as “the soul of storytelling” and said he was “honored” that his work on “Karamoja” resonated strongly.
The MultiChoice Talent Factory, which aims to provide young African creatives with technical skills, storytelling expertise, and industry connections, celebrated the alumni’s achievements. Victoria Goro, Academy Director at MultiChoice Talent Factory East Africa, praised Ivan, Isiko, and the “Jimbi” team for embodying the “spirit of MTF – creativity, collaboration, and impact.”
The wins underscore the role of initiatives like MTF in developing a new generation of African filmmakers poised to make a global impact.
