Every year on May 18th, the world celebrates International Museum Day (IMD) to honour the important role museums play in education, culture, and peacebuilding. This year’s theme, “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities,” encourages museums to rethink how they connect with people and adapt to today’s fast-changing world.
In Uganda, community museums are stepping up to this challenge. These locally run museums collect and share traditional artefacts, stories, and customs. They are important spaces where people learn about their culture and history, and they also address modern issues like climate change, gender equality, and education.
However, many of these museums face big challenges. They often lack funding, staff training, and public awareness. Many struggle with outdated tools and limited access to technology. Without support, they risk being left behind.
To change this, CCFU has organised a week of capacity-building/learning journey in commemoration of International Museums Day 2024. This will help museum managers learn new skills, use digital tools such as Artificial Intelligence, and connect better with the public. It will also encourage teamwork among museums and build partnerships with the government and international groups.
Uganda’s community museums are not just preserving the past—they are shaping the future. As they grow and learn, they are proving that the future of museums can be built from the ground up, right in the heart of local communities
A special highlight of this year’s celebration will be the launch of a new book, “Inspiration from the Past: Historical Buildings and Sites in Mbarara City,” which showcases the beauty and history of local architecture.
