In Just Hours

In Just Hours is a 2012 Ugandan short drama film written and directed by Usama Mukwaya.^[1] Produced through the Mariam Ndagire Film and Performing Arts Centre under the Movie Furnace project, the movie won the best film in the competition's second season.^[2] It premiered in the Nile Diaspora International Film Festival and later screened at the 2012 Manya Human Rights Film Festival and gained recognition for its tight pacing and emotional depth.^[3][4][5] It was also nominated in the 4th Pearl International Film Festival for best student film under the MNFPAC.^[6][7][8]

In Just Hours
Directed by	Usama Mukwaya
Written by	Usama Mukwaya
Produced by	Mariam Ndagire
Starring	Ssentongo Isaac Allen Musumba Veronica Nakayo
Cinematography	Kugonza Isaac
Edited by	Emanuel Bukenya
Release date	July 2013 (2013-07)
Country	Uganda
Language	Luganda/ English

Plot

Peter is about to be surprised by a mysterious, crude condition from the disease he has been suffering from. Weirdly the condition he is suffering from is only about to get fatal in the next few hours and if not treated quickly and carefully, he might not be sexually productive again.^[9]

Cast

• Ssentongo Isaac as Peter^[1]
• Allen Musumba as Rose
• Veronica Nakayo
• Shafique Ssenyange
• Ssumaya Nakintu

Production

Filmed in Kampala’s Katwe slum, In Just Hours was produced by Mukwaya’s production company. The cast included emerging Ugandan actors, with locations capturing the gritty reality of urban life. Production took two weeks, using handheld cameras to enhance the film’s raw aesthetic. Mukwaya, known for films like *Bala Bala Sese*, aimed to highlight social issues while proving Ugandan filmmakers could create compelling stories with limited resources.^[10][11]

Feature film adaptation

A feature film based on the same story is in development.^[12]

Reception

The film was well-received at local festivals, earning a Best Short Film nomination at the 2012 Manya Festival. Audiences praised its emotional intensity and relatable characters, though some critics noted technical limitations due to budget constraints. It was screened at community centers and schools, sparking discussions on poverty and crime. The film’s success boosted Mukwaya’s reputation, cementing his role in Uganda’s film industry.^[13]