"Call 112" Premieres in Kampala: A Cinematic Exploration of Disinformation’s Threat to Democracy
The silver screen recently lit up in Kampala, Uganda, with the world premiere of "Call 112," a gripping film that delves into the insidious nature of disinformation and its potential to destabilize societies. A collaborative effort between Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Uganda and South Sudan and O Studios Entertainment, the film made its debut at Century Cinemax, Acacia Mall, drawing a captivated audience eager to witness this timely and relevant story unfold.
"Call 112" transports viewers to the heart of a parliamentary election campaign in the fictional constituency of Kebambe West. The narrative revolves around James, a financially struggling university student and TikTok influencer, portrayed by Blair Koono. Lured by the promise of quick cash, James is enticed by Albert, played by Kenny Rukundo, to weaponize his online platform and disseminate damaging "secrets" about the incumbent MP, Teopista Ndyanabo, brought to life by the veteran actress Mariam Ndagire.
As James succumbs to the allure of easy money, he unwittingly becomes a pawn in a larger game of political manipulation. His TikTok videos, filled with fabricated accusations targeting Ndyanabo and her family, rapidly gain traction, blurring the lines between truth and fiction. The film masterfully captures James’s descent into the murky world of disinformation, highlighting the devastating consequences of unchecked online narratives and the erosion of public trust.
The premiere of "Call 112" was met with resounding praise, with Anna Reismann, Country Representative of KAS Uganda and South Sudan, commending the film’s ability to seamlessly blend entertainment with a crucial message. She emphasized the film’s relevance in today’s digital landscape, where influencers wield significant power over young audiences, making them vulnerable to manipulation by those seeking to sow discord. Reismann underscored KAS’s commitment to utilizing the film as an educational tool, partnering with the Media Challenge Initiative (MCI) to raise awareness among university students about the dangers of disinformation.
Director Usama Mukwaya echoed these sentiments, highlighting the pervasive nature of disinformation in the digital age. He emphasized the difficulty in verifying the deluge of information bombarding individuals through their smartphones, making everyone a potential victim. Mukwaya expressed his hope that "Call 112" would serve as a catalyst for critical thinking and empower audiences to discern fact from fiction. The film is a timely reminder of the shared responsibility in combating the spread of disinformation and safeguarding the integrity of information ecosystems.
The film’s compelling narrative is brought to life by a stellar cast, featuring established names like Peter Odeke, known for his role in "Queen of Katwe," Arthur Sewanyana from "Damalie," Timothy Lwanga from "Sanyu," and radio personality-turned-actor Ethan Kavuma. Behind the camera, the creative team, including writers Meddy Sserwadda and Usama Mukwaya, cinematographer Alex Ireeta, and producer Hadijah Nakajanko, worked in concert to deliver a powerful cinematic experience.
The release of "Call 112" comes at a pivotal moment, as disinformation continues to pose a significant threat to global stability. The 2025 Global Risk Report by the World Economic Forum identifies disinformation and misinformation as leading short-term risks, highlighting their potential to erode trust, exacerbate societal divisions, and undermine governance. The film serves as a stark warning, urging individuals, organizations, and governments to actively combat the spread of disinformation and protect the foundations of democratic societies.
KAS and MCI plan to make "Call 112" widely accessible through screenings in cinemas and at the MCI Media Hub in Kabalagala. A comprehensive schedule will be published on their digital platforms, ensuring broad reach and engagement with this important message. The film’s impactful narrative is expected to resonate with diverse audiences, sparking crucial conversations about the role of information integrity in preserving democratic values and fostering informed societies. "Call 112" is not just a film; it’s a call to action, urging vigilance, critical thinking, and a collective commitment to combating the insidious threat of disinformation.