Buganda Kingdom commends UNESCO, Japan for support to restore cultural heritage sites

What the report says

The Buganda Kingdom has thanked UNESCO and the Government of Japan for backing efforts to preserve and restore royal tombs and other cultural heritage sites, with particular attention on the Kasubi Royal Tombs in Kampala. The remarks came during the launch of a UNESCO-supported project focused on strengthening conservation of cultural and traditional sites.

According to Nile Post, Minister for Information Israel Kazibwe Kitooke, speaking for Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga, said the support is timely as the Kingdom prepares for the formal reopening of the Kasubi Tombs. He noted that the site suffered a fire in 2010 and was removed from UNESCO’s list of endangered sites in 2023 after restoration progress. The Kingdom also said it has recently held a grass-cutting ceremony at the tombs as part of preparations.

Prince David Kintu Wasajja urged Ugandans to value their cultural traditions, while Buganda Tourism Board director general Najib Nsubuga said the new project could also help surrounding communities benefit economically from heritage-related activity. UNESCO’s Judith Ogana highlighted the educational importance of cultural heritage, and Japan’s deputy ambassador to Uganda, Yoshida Norimasa, said his country would continue supporting protection efforts.

The project was launched at Africana Hotel in Kampala and brought together Buganda leaders, government officials and UNESCO representatives. The update matters because it signals continued international and local cooperation around one of Uganda’s most prominent heritage sites, with cultural preservation also linked to tourism and community livelihoods.