Abby Mukiibi: A Lifetime of Acting Excellence and the Legacy of a Ugandan Icon
From Childhood Dreams to International Stardom
For Abby Mukiibi Nkaaga, the stage has never been just a metaphor—it’s been his lifelong calling. At 57, the Ugandan actor has built an illustrious career spanning theatre, film, and radio, recently honored with the prestigious 2025 iKON Lifetime Achievement Award.
Mukiibi’s filmography boasts both local and international productions, including memorable roles in The Last King of Scotland (2006) as Masanga, Sometimes in April (2005) as Colonel Bagosora, and The Silent Army (2008) as Michel Obeke. His recent work includes critically acclaimed performances in The Mercy of the Jungle (2018), Imperial Blue (2019), and Kafa Coh (2020).
The Making of a Star
Since 2021, Mukiibi has captivated Ugandan audiences as patriarch Mr. Kirunda in the popular TV series Sanyu. He recalls the defining moment when his late father, Erias Simwogerere, visited his dream home—a two-story house shared with his wife Stella and children—and acknowledged his son’s success in achieving his childhood ambition.
“I am doing what I have always wanted to do. Living a life that I wanted to live. I have always wanted to be an actor. I wanted to be a screen star; that’s what got me to living my dream.”
Early Influences and Education
Mukiibi’s passion for acting was kindled in Walukuba, Jinja, where cinema culture thrived under Asian influence. Childhood heroes like Bud Spencer, Terence Hill, and Bruce Lee fueled his imagination, while the character Captain Scarlet inspired his childhood nickname.
His professional journey began at just five years old when his uncle, Omugave Ndugwa, cast him in his first theatre role. This early start led to continuous involvement in drama, music, and dance throughout his education at institutions including Victoria Nile School, Makerere College School, and ultimately Makerere University where he studied Music, Dance and Drama (MDD).
Theatre Foundations and Career Breakthroughs
After university, Mukiibi co-founded Afri Talent with his late friend Kato Lubwama, who established Diamonds Ensemble. Their collaboration created Afri-Diamond, which became instrumental in Uganda’s theatre scene. The group’s early struggles included running between Pride Theatre and Riverside Theatre to perform in each other’s plays before eventually acquiring and remodeling Bat Valley Theatre.
Key productions like Ekiragiro (Order) and Ensitaano established Mukiibi’s reputation. Ekiragiro, depicting soldiers’ lives during Uganda’s liberation war, earned a six-month contract to perform in army barracks after impressing then-Army Commander Gen. Mugisha Muntu.
Transition to Film and Television
Mukiibi’s theatre experience became the foundation for his screen career. His breakout film role came as Mukajanga (chief executioner) in Fires of Hope (1996), followed by international recognition in Sometimes in April alongside Idris Elba and The Last King of Scotland with Forest Whitaker.
His television work, particularly as Mr. Kirunda in Sanyu, has brought him widespread fame in Uganda, surpassing even his international film achievements in terms of local recognition.
A Lifetime Achievement and Lasting Legacy
The 2025 iKON Lifetime Achievement Award holds special significance for Mukiibi, who nearly missed the ceremony. He dedicated the honor to his late friend and collaborator Kato Lubwama, who passed away in 2023.
“Winning that award without Kato there was painful. That’s why I dedicated it to him; the man behind everything people see in me.”
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mukiibi credits his wife Stella as his “silent hero,” acknowledging the sacrifices she’s made to support his demanding career in the arts.
From the stages of Bat Valley Theatre to Hollywood sets and Ugandan television screens, Abby Mukiibi’s journey exemplifies the power of perseverance, passion, and artistic vision in shaping Uganda’s entertainment landscape.