Exclusive spotlight with Anne Kansiime — Uganda’s Queen of Comedy. Discover her journey, challenges, milestones, and impact on African comedy.
Afro Comedy sits down with Anne Kansiime, one of Africa’s most celebrated comedians, to talk about her humble beginnings, her rise to fame, controversies, philanthropy, and her vision for comedy’s future.
Early Life & Background
Afro Comedy: Anne, let’s start at the beginning. Where did you grow up, and how did your childhood shape you?
Anne Kansiime: I was born in Mparo, in today’s Rukiga District in southwestern Uganda. Back then, it was under Kabale District. My father was a banker, and my mother was a homemaker. Life was modest but full of stories, laughter, and lessons. I went to Kabale Primary School and later Bweranyangi Girls’ Senior Secondary School for O- and A-Levels.
Afro Comedy: Did you always know you would become a comedian?
Anne: (Laughs) Not at all. I studied Social Sciences at Makerere University. In fact, in 2024 I shared publicly that I didn’t graduate — I had a couple of course units left. But by then, my career had already taken off. I chose comedy over waiting for a certificate.
Discovering Comedy
Afro Comedy: How did comedy enter your life?
Anne: Around 2007, while still at Makerere, I joined a group called Theatre Factory. We performed every week at the Uganda National Theatre. Later, when it disbanded, I became part of Fun Factory Uganda, which was like my second home.
Afro Comedy: What was your first big break?
Anne: Posting sketches on YouTube changed my life. People across East Africa started watching. Then Citizen TV in Kenya offered me my own show — Don’t Mess With Kansiime. That show opened doors to international stages.
Rise to Fame & International Tours
Afro Comedy: You’ve performed in so many countries. Any favorites?
Anne: Oh yes, from Nigeria to South Africa, Malawi, the UK, USA, Canada, Malaysia — every stage is different. But I must say, the love from Kenya and Uganda always feels special.
Afro Comedy: You also made history on YouTube.
Anne: Yes, in 2025, I became the first Ugandan content creator to pass 1 million subscribers. That meant so much to me because digital comedy is the future.
Controversies & Challenges
Afro Comedy: You’ve been open about personal struggles. How do you handle controversies?
Anne: I believe in honesty. Whether it’s my education story, my relationship with Skylanta, or my motherhood journey, I share because fans connect with the real me. Comedy is truth with a smile.
Beyond Comedy: Business & Philanthropy
Afro Comedy: Tell us about your other ventures.
Anne: I run Kansiime Backpackers, a lodge on Lake Bunyonyi in my home region. It’s a way to promote tourism and create jobs. Then there’s the Kansiime Foundation, which supports vulnerable children’s education. Using my success to give back is very important to me.
Awards & Recognition
Afro Comedy: You’re often called “Africa’s Queen of Comedy.” What does that title mean to you?
Anne: It’s an honor, but also a responsibility. Over the years, I’ve been blessed with awards — BEFFTA Best Comedian, Rising Star, and YouTube’s Sub-Saharan Creator Award. But the real crown is the love from audiences across the world.
Impact & Legacy
Afro Comedy: How do you see your role in African comedy?
Anne: I want young comedians, especially women, to see that this path is possible. I broke barriers in a male-dominated space, and now many young girls tell me they want to do comedy. That’s the legacy I dream of — laughter that inspires.
Looking Ahead
Afro Comedy: What’s next for Anne Kansiime?
Anne: More international tours, growing The Comedy Grill show, and continuing to create digital content. And of course, raising my son and finding balance in this new chapter of life.
Final Thoughts
Anne Kansiime’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and generosity. From her beginnings in Mparo to international stages, she has not only entertained millions but also redefined what African comedy can be.
