Call 112 tackles tacky issue of disinformation

Call 112, a new Ugandan film directed by Usama Mukwaya, premiered on April 30 at Century Cinemax in Kampala.

A Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) production, Call 112 talks about the growing threat of disinformation and its impact on democratic processes. The film is about a parliamentary campaign in the fictional constituency of Kebambe West, where truth becomes a casualty of online manipulation.

Blair Koono takes on the role of James, a university student juggling studies and life as a part-time TikToker. Lured by the temptation of fast money, he joins a digital smear campaign against outspoken Member of Parliament Teopista Ndyanabo, portrayed by veteran actress/director Mariam Ndagire.

But what begins as an easy payday quickly spirals out of control, leaving James to face the fallout of his choices. Addressing guests at the premiere, Anna Reismann the KAS representative for Uganda and South Sudan, praised the film for its dual impact.

“This film clearly shows how disinformation spreads in the internet age,” she said.

“Now that influencers are the go-to sources of information for our youthful audience, the detractors are also looking at using them to sow conflict.”

The release arrives amid rising global anxiety about the dangers of misinformation. Mukwaya, the film’s director and the creative force behind O Studios, says the project emerged from a pressing desire to tackle a growing global issue.

“In a world where anyone can fall prey to disinformation, I’m excited to use the power of storytelling to raise awareness and spark critical conversations,” Mukwaya shared.