Nyombi Thembo: Alex Mukulu was theatre’s leader of perfection

What the report says

Uganda Communications Commission executive director Nyombi Thembo has urged the country’s creative sector to use the death of theatre figure Alex Mukulu as a moment to reflect on how it recognises and preserves its own legends. In remarks reported by Sqoop Uganda, Nyombi said the industry should not depend only on government honours for cultural icons, but should also build its own systems of recognition for artists who have shaped Ugandan theatre.

Nyombi described Mukulu as one of Uganda’s most important playwrights, actors and directors, saying his work helped transform local theatre and set a high standard for preparation and discipline. He argued that the best tribute to Mukulu would be a return to the level of care and professionalism that, in his view, once defined the stage. He contrasted that standard with what he sees as a growing reliance on improvisation.

According to the article, Nyombi linked this shift to a decline in theatre attendance and warned that improvisation should support, not replace, excellence. His comments broadened into a wider call for theatre groups and creative associations to honour their own achievements while also protecting the legacy of veteran artists.

The piece places the discussion in the context of Uganda’s mourning for Mukulu and the broader debate over how the country’s arts sector celebrates its past and sustains quality in the present.