Kampala, Uganda | August 6, 2025 — In a compassionate gesture, the Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has ordered immediate support for Arnold Mubangizi, the actor who portrayed President Yoweri Museveni in the 2018 historical film 27 Guns, after reports emerged of his current struggles with poverty and personal hardship.
Mubangizi, once celebrated for taking on the iconic role in the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF)-backed film, is now living in dire conditions while caring for his ailing mother. Despite the initial promise the role held for his acting career, Mubangizi says it has since brought more challenges than opportunities.
“The role was a blessing at first,” Mubangizi recently said in a reflective interview. “But after the spotlight faded, I was left with very little support. It’s been hard, especially looking after my sick mother without a stable income.”
Reacting to the news, Gen. Muhoozi took to social media with a heartfelt post:
“Before I turn off the tap for a long time, I have to help one last person. The young boy who acted as my father in 27 Guns. I read somewhere that he is suffering? How is that possible?? I hereby order my office to take care of him immediately.”
The General’s swift directive has since sparked a wave of support on social media, with many Ugandans applauding his empathy and calling for greater recognition and welfare support for artists who contribute to national storytelling and heritage.
27 Guns was a patriotic film that chronicled the early struggles of the National Resistance Army (NRA) and the rise of President Museveni. Mubangizi’s role as the young Museveni was central to the film’s narrative and symbolic legacy.
It remains to be seen what form of assistance will be extended to Mubangizi, but sources close to the CDF’s office suggest logistical, medical, and financial support is being arranged as a matter of urgency.
The incident has reignited conversations around the welfare of artists in Uganda and the need for long-term support systems beyond the stage and screen.
