During this year’s Heritage Awards organized by the Cross Cultural Foundation Uganda, Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago delivered a passionate speech, highlighting the growing challenges of preserving Kampala’s rich heritage in the face of modernization.
He expressed concern about the widespread disregard for cultural symbols and historical landmarks in the city, emphasizing the need to protect them for future generations.
“One of the biggest challenges we face today is the perception that embracing our heritage is somehow backward or old-fashioned. Many people frown upon those who proudly symbolize our cultural values, often viewing them in a disparaging manner,” Lukwago remarked. He noted that this dismissive attitude is particularly prevalent among the youth, whose mantra of ‘I do what pleases me’ has become pervasive.
As the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) spearheads a transformative agenda, Lukwago acknowledged that modernization is often necessary but warned that it should not come at the cost of erasing the city’s historical identity.
“We visit developed cities, admire their heritage, and take pictures of their beautifully preserved artefacts and street furniture, but we fail to do the same for our own. The transformation agenda we are pursuing is, in many ways, adulterating our heritage,” Lukwago stated. “Many of you support this narrative, but we are losing the few features of historical significance left in Kampala.”
He lamented the steady disappearance of monuments and buildings that once defined the city’s character. “A city should be able to tell its story through its landmarks, but here in Kampala, the story is fading,” he said.
One of his key points of concern was the KCCA logo, which, according to Lukwago, no longer reflects the city’s heritage. “Our previous logo featured the Uganda Kob and the impala, symbols that define Kampala. But now, we only have a tower with large letters spelling KCCA. Look at neighboring cities like Nairobi and Dar es Salaam—they have logos that speak to their identity. Ours is disappointing.”
Lukwago also reflected on the demolition of iconic structures such as Nile Mansions, which was razed in the name of modernization. “Nile Mansions should have remained a dungeon—a reminder of our dark past. Destroying it was a missed opportunity to preserve our history and serve as a constant warning not to return to those days.”
Heritage sites and monuments in Kampala
Kampala is home to several monuments and heritage sites that reflect its diverse history and culture. Key among them is the Independence Monument, which was erected to mark Uganda’s independence from British colonial rule in 1962. Another significant site is the Kabaka’s Palace (Lubiri) in Mengo, which holds historical and cultural importance for the Baganda people. The Kasubi Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, serve as the burial grounds for Buganda kings and are revered for their architectural and cultural significance.
However, many of these monuments and other historical structures are increasingly under threat due to urbanization and infrastructure development. This has sparked debates on how to balance modernization with the need to preserve the city’s heritage for future generations.
Lukwago’s speech serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between development and cultural preservation and a call for greater efforts to protect Kampala’s historical and cultural identity in the face of modernization.
Fredrick Nsibambi, the Deputy Executive Director of the Cross Cultural Foundation Uganda (CCFU), highlighted the numerous challenges facing heritage preservation in Uganda, ranging from a lack of understanding to economic undervaluation of historical sites. Speaking at the annual Heritage Awards ceremony, Nsibambi explained that many Ugandans are conflicted about whether to conserve heritage that dates back to the colonial era.
“One of the challenges is rooted in the failure to understand and appreciate this heritage,” Nsibambi said. “Some people question why we should conserve colonial heritage, arguing that it doesn’t belong to us. Others believe that, regardless of its origins, it has become part of our identity and must be preserved.”
Nsibambi also pointed out the untapped potential of these heritage sites, which, if well-preserved, could become significant tourist attractions and economic assets.
“People don’t see the economic, social, and political value of these historical sites. In Europe, where there are no national parks, historical buildings attract tourists who pay a lot of money to visit them. If we preserve our own historical buildings, we could generate substantial income,” he emphasized.
However, Nsibambi admitted that CCFU, as an NGO, faces limitations due to its reliance on donor funding. While they have made strides by researching and documenting heritage sites and working with local authorities such as Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) to implement ordinances for the protection of buildings and sites, more needs to be done.
The heritage awards
The heritage awards held on Thursday evening honored seven individuals and organizations for their outstanding contributions to the preservation and promotion of Uganda’s heritage, encompassing built, natural, and intangible heritage.
- Josephine Kyomuhendo, a London-based eco-sustainable designer of Ugandan descent, was recognized for her innovative garments and accessories that blend traditional Ugandan fabrics and techniques with modern design elements.
- Dr. Yolam Nsamba, former private secretary to the king of Bunyoro-Kitara, received an award for his lifelong dedication to preserving the kingdom’s history and culture.
- Veteran journalist Tony Owana was honored for his efforts in curating a mini-museum showcasing Uganda’s rich history and heritage.
- The Uganda Nubian Consultative Forum in Bombo was recognized for preserving a 1922 mosque, a site of historical importance where prominent sheikhs, including former Ugandan President Idi Amin, were trained alongside renowned Nigerian scholar Muhammad Abdullah.
- Rwendike Chiefdom was awarded for its efforts in safeguarding the Kotilo Sacred Forest Reserve, a burial site for Madi chiefs.
- Tooro Botanical Gardens was celebrated for its commitment to understanding, valuing, and conserving Uganda’s biodiversity.
- Journalist Bamuturaki Musinguzi was acknowledged for his in-depth reporting on indigenous minorities, traditional medicine, and historical buildings and sites.
These awards serve as a reminder of the importance of protecting Uganda’s heritage and the collective effort required to ensure that these cultural treasures are preserved for future generations.
The event also highlighted the ongoing need for greater investment and awareness in the protection of historical monuments and sites across the country
