about

Eitai, an Iteso word for community togetherness, is a documentary exploring change in rural Uganda. The film delves into the challenges faced by a rural community in Northeastern Uganda. Eitai explores critical global issues including the interconnected challenges of climate change, poverty, and gender-based violence. It highlights how social enterprise projects not only provide economic opportunities but also create safe spaces for knowledge sharing, environmental action, and community sensitisation via music, dance, and drama.
Through vivid storytelling, Eitai underscores the importance of indigenous knowledge and communitarianism in addressing pressing global crises. It calls for stronger relationships among people, the land, and non-humans to mitigate further environmental degradation. The film also captures unique narratives on combating HIV and GBV, as told by participants through their lived experiences and cultural expressions. The film is not only a celebration of the resilience and resourcefulness of communities in Teso, but also a platform for international knowledge exchange to address global challenges.

documentary overview

Meet the crew

Andrew Bashford-Squires

Editor and Film Composer

Andrew has overseen all post production elements of the documentary, using his experience of producing music and videos for his bands- Luxembourg, Zietlklein, and, The Studio System.

Sonyanga Ole Ngais

Filmographer and Co-Producer

Sonyanga is a Maasai Moran (warrior) from Laikipia in northern Kenya and a creative media practitioner. With a wealth of experience in storytelling and media production, his work often highlights underrepresented voices, aiming to spark dialogue and inspire action. Sonyanga's work not only celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Maasai people but also addresses pressing issues such as FGM, land rights and environmental conservation.

Dr Sally Bashford-Squires

Director and Co Producer

Sally holds a master’s degree in public health and a PhD in critical public health, focusing on storytelling's role in research dissemination. Prior to academia, Sally worked as a senior promotions controller at Oxford University Press, gaining strong marketing and editorial skills, along with extensive experience in writing and editing for diverse audiences. She is a Teaching Fellow within the school of Human Sciences at the University of Greenwich.