Michael Wawuyo Sr. is a pioneering Ugandan actor and special effects specialist renowned for his contributions to both local and global cinema over more than three decades. He ranks among Uganda’s most influential figures in film, earning fame through standout performances in productions like The Last King of Scotland, Kony: Order from Above, and The Mercy of the Jungle. He excels in acting while also innovating in special effects and makeup, shaping East African storytelling.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Michael Wawuyo Sr. |
| Date of Birth | November 11, 1948 |
| Place of Birth | Uganda |
| Nationality | Ugandan |
| Partner | Deceased (2024); name private |
| Children | At least two, including Michael Jr. |
| Occupations | Actor, Special Effects Artist |
| Net Worth | Estimated $750.000 |
Early Life and Education
Born on November 11, 1948, in Uganda, Michael Wawuyo Sr. grew up in a setting that sparked his artistic interests early on. Specific accounts of his schooling are scarce, reflecting the era of many foundational African filmmakers. His Ugandan roots fueled a lifelong commitment to the arts.
Career
Wawuyo Sr. entered cinema in 1991 with a role in Mira Nair’s Mississippi Masala as a soldier. He progressed to commanding parts in international works, such as an air force leader in The Last King of Scotland and military figures in Sometimes in April.
Locally, he starred in Ugandan hits like Situka, The Boda Boda Thieves, and The Girl in the Yellow Jumper, plus TV series Yat Madit and Power of Legacy.
Beyond acting, his expertise in special effects shines in films including The Felistas Fable and Imbabazi: The Pardon, where he earned recognition for transformative makeup work.
Personal Life
Michael Wawuyo Sr. shared his life with a spouse who passed away in early 2024; he is father to at least two children, notably actor Michael Wawuyo Jr. The Wawuyo family holds a prominent place in Uganda’s creative scene across generations. Precise details on his ethnic background or additional family remain closely held.
Net Worth
Michael Wawuyo Sr.’s net worth is estimated at $750,000 USD as of 2025. This figure draws from his long career in acting across international films like The Last King of Scotland, local Ugandan productions, and special effects work on projects such as The Felistas Fable.
Filmography
Selected Film Roles
- Taste of Our Land (2022) – Yohani
- Kafa Coh (2022) – Cedric Nkono
- The Girl in the Yellow Jumper (2020)
- The Mercy of the Jungle (2018) – Village Chief
- Kony: Order from Above (2017)
- The Only Son (2016)
- Situka (2015)
- The Boda Boda Thieves (2015)
- The Last King of Scotland (2006) – Air Force Commander
- Mississippi Masala (1991) – Soldier on Bus
Special Effects/Makeup Highlights
- The Felistas Fable (2013)
- Imbabazi: The Pardon (2013)
- Yat Madit (TV series)
Awards and Nominations
- Lifetime Achievement Award at Uganda 2024 iKon Awards
- Nominee, Makeup Artiste of the Year, 2nd Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (for The Felistas Fable, 2014)
- Judges’ Choice Honorary Award, Uganda Film Festival (2017)
- Best Male Actor, Festival du Cinéma Africain de Khouribga (for Taste of Our Land)
