Ugandan actor Derrick Bakali put Uganda’s film industry again in the limelight after getting an award for Best Actor of the Year during the Second Edition of the Music Video Africa Awards (MVAA) 2025 in Nigeria’s Capital Lagos.

In a colorful event that took place at Victoria Island in Nigeria on Saturday, October 11, 2025, several artists were recognized for their outstanding achievements in music, film, and literature from across Africa. Bakali was announced emerged winner as the Best Actor of the Year.

He is known for films like Second Chance, False Dreams, Damalie, Mistake all currently airing on pearl Magic.

“Congratulations to Derrick. This same year he won Best Actor in TV Drama (Beloved on @PearlMagicPrime |@PearlMagicTV) during @UgandaFilm #UFF2025,“ Kasule Douglas, an actor and film producer wrote on X.

This year’s ceremony also saw Zambia walk away with nine prestigious awards showcasing its growing influence in the African entertainment scene.

Celebrated artists from other African nations also won various awards, with Nigeria’s Wizkid taking home Song of the Year and artists from countries like Senegal, South Africa, Kenya, and Ghana also received awards while Zambia’s Chadzanso Juvi scooped an award for inspirational woman of the year.

The MVAA continues to grow as a key platform for celebrating and elevating African creative talent on the international stage.

The MVAA was launched in 2024 by Daniel Blessington, who has the goal of promoting African artistry and uniting the continent through its rich cultural heritage. Daniel has spent over 20 years supporting African talent, having lived in Zambia, Tanzania, and other countries to understand the continent’s diverse art and business landscapes.