She called him ‘boyfriend’, they called him mentor: Remembering Alex Mukulu

What the report says

Sqoop Uganda reported on the growing tributes to Ugandan theatre figure Alex Mukulu, describing him as a major force in the country’s stage arts and a mentor to several generations of performers. The article centers on memories shared after his death, with family members, colleagues and cultural leaders reflecting on his influence on theatre training, direction and standards.

One of the most personal tributes came from his former wife, Christine Mukulu, who recalled their long history together and said he had shaped much of her life and career. She also said she was with him in his final moments. The piece presents her remarks alongside recollections from theatre practitioners who remembered him as demanding, exacting and deeply committed to craft.

Charles Senkubuge, known as Siasa, described Mukulu as a rare and uncompromising artist who insisted on rehearsal, discipline and script-based performance. He said Mukulu helped train performers in Kabowa under the Theatrical Association of Uganda and pushed actors to understand theatre as a serious practice, not just entertainment. The article also notes that he spent time supporting children at Sanyu Babies Home.

Phina Mugerwa of the Uganda National Cultural Centre board of trustees said Mukulu’s legacy extended beyond performances to the people he mentored and inspired, and linked his work to Uganda’s wider cultural and creative development. Overall, the piece frames his passing as a loss to Ugandan theatre and raises the broader question of how the country values cultural icons while they are still alive.