from HASSAN ONYANGO in Kampala, Uganda
Uganda Bureau
KAMPALA, (CAJ News) – UGANDA has postponed its annual film festival following the outbreak of Ebola.
It had been scheduled for June 5.
The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has informed filmmakers, partners, audiences and the general public that the Uganda Film Festival (UFF) would be deferred following guidance issued by the National Taskforce on Ebola Response and the Ministry of Health.
The postponement affects all festival activities, including film screenings and the UFF Awards Gala.
“While we recognise the disappointment this may cause to filmmakers, nominees, sponsors, exhibitors and festival audiences, the health and safety of the public remains our highest priority,” the UCC stated on Thursday.
It noted the postponement was a precautionary measure intended to support the national response efforts and protect communities during this period.
“UCC continues to work closely with the relevant government authorities and stakeholders, and new dates for the festival activities will be communicated in due course once it is considered safe to proceed.”
Last week, Uganda postponed the annual Martyrs Day celebrations for similar health reasons.
They had been scheduled for June 3.
Uganda has reported seven confirmed cases and one death as part of the regional outbreak.
To prevent further transmission, authorities have closed the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo for a four-week period.
– CAJ News