Morris Herbert Mugisha is a celebrated Ugandan actor, director, photographer, model, and reality TV personality who has become a leading figure in East African cinema. Born on November 23, 1978, in Kigezi, Uganda, he gained widespread recognition after representing Uganda in the third season of Big Brother Africa in 2008. He is best known for directing the film Tembele, which made history as Uganda’s first-ever submission to the Academy Awards.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Morris Herbert Mugisha |
| Date of Birth | November 23, 1978 |
| Place of Birth | Kigezi, Uganda |
| Nationality | Ugandan |
| Partner | N/A |
| Occupations | Actor, Director, Producer, Photographer, Model |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | $300,000 – $500,000 USD |
Early Life and Education
Morris Mugisha was born in Kigezi, Uganda, into a family of eight children. His father, Nalis Bigingo, was a professional photographer who greatly influenced Morris’s early interest in visual arts.
From a young age, Morris was fascinated by photography, often experimenting with disposable and vintage cameras.
He pursued higher education at Makerere University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Literature, Communication, and Film. In addition, he obtained diplomas in Performing Arts (Music, Dance, and Drama) and Radio and TV Production.
During his studies, he excelled in African Cinema courses and developed strong technical skills in video production, supported by his father’s mentorship.
Career
Morris Mugisha started his career as a model and photographer in Uganda. He was well-known for his fair skin and good looks, which made him popular in Kampala’s fashion scene.
He worked with famous fashion brands like Sylvia Owori’s fashion house. At the same time, he did wedding and event photography and acted in theater plays to develop his acting skills.
In 2008, Morris took part in Big Brother Africa, representing Uganda. Although he did not win, finishing sixth, the show made him famous across Africa and helped him gain recognition.
After Big Brother Africa, Morris created his own production company called MOIDEAS Ltd. Through this company, he has produced over 50 TV commercials and worked with organizations like the World Bank and Uganda’s Ministry of Water and Environment.
He also uses his work to support social causes, such as educating youth through Reach A Hand Uganda.Morris then moved into filmmaking.
In 2019, he wrote, directed, and produced his first short film, Fear Knows My Name.
In 2021, he directed Stain, a feature film about a woman who becomes the family’s main provider after her husband is hurt. Stain won many awards in Uganda and was nominated for several Africa Movie Academy Awards.
In 2022, Morris directed Tembele, a film about a man dealing with mental health challenges after losing his child. This film was Uganda’s first-ever entry for the Best International Feature Film at the Academy Awards. Tembele won many awards locally and internationally.
In 2023, Morris continued making films, including The Matron and A Son’s Hero. Alongside directing and producing, he also acts in TV shows and films, such as Hand in Hand, Mistakes Girls Do, and Tembele.
Besides entertainment, Morris produces documentaries that highlight social issues, like the struggles of street children in Uganda. His career combines creative storytelling with social impact.
Personal Life
Morris Mugisha keeps his personal life private but is known to be a father of two. He credits his father’s influence for his artistic development and remains dedicated to mentoring young filmmakers. Known for his humility, Morris continues to inspire Uganda’s creative community.
Morris Mugisha Net Worth
Morris Mugisha’s estimated net worth is between $300,000 and $500,000, earned through his work as an actor, director, producer, photographer, and model. His income comes from successful film projects, commercial productions, and his production company MOIDEAS Ltd.
Filmography
Director and Producer
- Fear Knows My Name (2019)
- Stain (2021)
- Tembele (2022)
- The Matron (2023)
- A Son’s Hero (2023)
Actor
- Hand in Hand (2005)
- Big Brother Africa Season 3 (2008)
- Mistakes Girls Do (2017)
- Kyaddala (2019)
- Black Glove (2021)
- Sanyu (2021)
- Tembele (2022)
Documentaries
- Incredible Children (Producer)
- Various projects for international agencies
Awards and Recognitions
- Uganda Film Festival Awards: Multiple wins for Stain (Best Feature Film, Cinematography, Costume Design) and Tembele (Best Film, Best Actor, Best Supporting Actor).
- Africa Movie Academy Awards: Stain earned seven nominations and a Best Actress win; Tembele received ten nominations and won Best Cinematography.
- Academy Awards: Tembele was Uganda’s first-ever submission for Best International Feature Film.
Morris Mugisha’s journey from a reality TV contestant to an internationally acclaimed filmmaker exemplifies his dedication to authentic African storytelling and social impact, making him a pioneering force in East African cinema.
