The best of African comedians will be in SA for the 8th Annual South African Savanna Comics Choice Awards, at the Lyric Theatre this Saturday.
We caught up with the sought-after Kansiime before the big day.
Who is Kansiime Anne outside of comedy?
I’m a businesswoman and a philanthropist. I’ve been blessed to earn a living doing what I love—heal people with laughter. I’ve earned a lot through comedy and I thank God I’m wise enough to invest it.
With all blessings come responsibilities. So, I have tried to give back to the people that raised me through the Kansiime Foundation that currently educates 34 children from my hometown.
How do you feel about your nomination for the 8th Annual South African Savanna Comics Choice Awards?
I’m ecstatic and honoured to be nominated in a category with comedians I’ve only looked up to and more so, to be the only woman in that category. I have basically made it in life and just the nomination already feels like a win.
How do you prepare for shows outside Uganda to ensure you are relatable to your audience?
I make sure I do my research about that country's current affairs and all other aspects of that country. However, I pride myself in entertaining my ninjas (fans) with my vast personal experiences, with a hint of fiction and exaggeration. Growing up, I could always tell a story better than the next person.
What are some of the challenges of being a female comedian on the African continent?
I believe being a woman in this business has instead given me more advantage because I have a vast pool of content to choose from than my male counterparts. I also don’t have a lot of female comedians to compete with in Africa.
I must point out though I’m certain that, whether male or female, all comedians face the same challenges as any other person would face no matter what career one chooses, and also despite gender. My one true challenge is to do my best to stay on top of my game.
Where do you draw inspiration for content?
My mother is my number one source of content and whenever I feel like my creative juices are running low, I just pay her a long visit, observe and learn and I’m good to go. She is a miracle, that one!
Tell us more about the aim of the Kansiime Foundation.
The Kansiime foundation is a means of giving back to the community that raised me.
My aim is to provide quality education to intelligent school-loving children in my village who wouldn't otherwise afford it. I emphasise the intelligence and love for school because being the only individual that finances that foundation, I have very little tolerance for children or families that have no love or respect for school.
Your advice to aspiring comedians?
It's not easy at all. It's work, work, work and some more work. Authenticity is key, being yourself and remaining true to who you are is the best thing that can ever happen to any comedian's career. I mean, look at Trevor Noah.
Tickets for the 8th Annual South African Savanna Comics Choice Awards are available at Computicket at R335
