Mbarara, Uganda – As a step toward preserving Uganda’s cultural heritage, the Cross-Cultural Foundation of Uganda (CCFU), in partnership with the Ugandan German Cultural Society, has launched a new coffee table book titled “Inspiration from the Past: Historical Buildings and Sites in Mbarara City.” The launch took place on Friday, May 16, 2025, at the East African Revival Museum next to the Anglican Cathedral at Ruharo, in Mbarara.
Mbarara, often referred to as Kaaro Karungi, meaning “a beautiful village”, earned city status in 2020 and stands as a significant cultural and historical hub in western Uganda. Known as the ancestral home of the Ankole Kingdom and a centre for cattle-keeping traditions, Mbarara’s urban landscape is a testament to its vibrant past. From traditional Banyankole leadership structures to Euro-Asian architectural influences, the city tells many stories through its built environment, stories now at risk of being forgotten.
Speaking at the event, Ms. Barbra Babweteera, Executive Director of CCFU, underscored the importance of the book in a time when development increasingly overshadows heritage.
“At CCFU, we take great pride in this milestone. As cities across the country continue to grow, our cultural heritage faces increasing threats. The production of this book is a vital step in strengthening our efforts to preserve and celebrate important historical landmarks for future generations. We invite all Ugandans to join us in this important journey of safeguarding our heritage,” she said.
This publication highlights several historical structures and monuments still standing in Mbarara. Yet, the project was not without its sobering reminders: a day before documentation began, two historic buildings on Mbarara High street were demolished, emphasizing the fragile nature of Uganda’s urban heritage.
Dr. Anna Adima, Director of Goethe-Zentrum Kampala / Uganda German Cultural Society, reflected on the deeper meaning of historical preservation.
“The need to understand the past is as old as humankind itself. History teaches us about the present, allowing us to understand the community, society, and world that we live in, equipping us with tools to build our future. However, it is not just the stories themselves about the past that are important – the way these stories are told, and by whom, are equally as relevant.”
The Mbarara City Clerk noted that cities in Europe earn income out of built heritage and that “it is sad that we are demolishing ours”. He committed on behalf of Mbarara City to use the book to raise awareness on the importance of preserving our heritage. He also added that the documentation work will be instrumental in diversifying tourist activities in the city.
The book draws attention to how modernisation threatens cultural symbols. One example is the iconic long-horned Ankole cow statue that welcomes visitors at the city’s entrance. Once a proud symbol of the region’s heritage, it is now obscured by a commercial billboard, illustrating the tension between commercial development and cultural preservation.
“A nation that does not cherish its heritage is a lost one. I appreciate CCFU for this initiative to preserve our city’s heritage. As a Ankole Diocese, this gives us hope and strength further to preserve our heritage through the African Revival Museum.” Bishop Sheldon Mwesigwa of Ankole Diocese noted while speaking at the event
Around the world, cities are distinguished not only by skyscrapers but by the stories embedded in their architectural merits. In Uganda, however, the rush to “modernise” often means erasing the physical spaces that connect past generations to the present. CCFU’s documentation work is therefore critical, providing not just a visual archive but also a call to action.
Since its founding in 2006, CCFU has focused on safeguarding and promoting cultural heritage, advocating for cultural rights, and managing cultural diversity. The organization has previously documented historic sites in Kampala, Entebbe, Jinja, Mbale, Fort Portal, and Soroti.
Among its notable projects is the restoration of the Jinja Railway Station in 2022, in collaboration with the Uganda Railways Corporation, which now houses Uganda’s first Railway Museum. In 2024, CCFU also restored the historic residence of Semei Kakungulu in Mbale, creating a museum that links heritage preservation with environmental awareness.
With the launch of “Inspiration from the Past,” Mbarara’s legacy takes its rightful place in Uganda’s national cultural narrative. And while the book itself is a celebration, it also serves as a reminder: the stories of our cities must be preserved, not just in memory, but in brick, stone, and spirit.
For more information, contact CCFU via email at ccfu@crossculturalfoundation.or.ug or call 0393 294675 / 0770 824466. To learn more about their work, visit www.crossculturalfoundation.or.ug.
