On, Thursday, 28th November 2024, the Semei Kakungulu Museum was officially opened during a ceremony which was presided over by Hon. James Magode, the State Minister for East African Community Affairs and Ms. Doreen Katusiime, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities on behalf of Tom Butime, Minister of Wildlife, Tourism and Antiquities.
The museum has been established by the Cross-Cultural Foundation of Uganda (CCFU) in partnership with the Semei Kakungulu family and the International National Trusts Organisation (INTO), with financial support from British Council’s Cultural Protection Fund, under the successfully completed the project: “Withstanding change; heritage amongst climate uncertainty”.
According to Ms. Millicent Mugabi, the Country Director of British Council Uganda, the Cultural Protection Fund was established to support communities to reconnect with their heritage especially that which is at risk.
The main objective of this project was to restore and safeguard the Semei Kakungulu heritage site on Gangama Hill in Mbale City from the effects of climate change, and turn the site into a public museum that demonstrates various local practices and indigenous knowledge effective in addressing climate change.
Ms. Doreen Katusiime, the permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities noted that “the restoration of the Semei Kakungulu Heritage Site and establishment of a museum is a reminder of what we need to do to protect our heritage from climate change.”
The Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, the State Minister for East African Affairs, Area Members of Parliament, the Country Director British Council, Mbale City local government officials including the Mayor, Inzu Ya Masaba cultural institution, Buganda Kingdom’s representative, Uganda Tourism Board, tour operators, civil society and the local community around the site have witnessed this important event.
The Semei Kakungulu Museum stands as a testament to the remarkable life and contribution of Semei Kakungulu, a prominent figure in Uganda’s history. It highlights his contribution as a significant figure on environmental conservation and climate change through his Mvule tree planting efforts; a military leader central in the expansion of British rule especially in the eastern parts of the country; a fervent promoter of Christianity who formed “Abayudaya”, a religious sect that practices what is considered Orthodox Judaism, and a strong advocate for modern medicine, education and agriculture.
Spread across 3.5 acres, the museum features four heritage zones, offering an immersive experience that combines history, nature, and beauty. Visitors can explore the Nyanja Eradde Information Centre, the historic building housing most artefacts, a breathtaking view of Mbale city, and a trail to discover the remnants of the first Abayudaya synagogue.
While speaking at the ceremony, Hon. Magode emphasised that “The opening of the Museum will enrich our tourism products, especially for Mbale City and the eastern tourism route. It is expected that Mbale City will register an increase in number of visitors, thus contributing to increased revenue for the city. It will also create job opportunities and market for products of our people. The Semei Kakungulu Museum is also expected to contribute to the Government’s efforts to safeguard and promote Uganda’s heritage. The museum will create job opportunities, stimulate local economic growth, and provide a platform for cultural exchange.”
Barbra Babweteera, the Executive Director, The Cross-Cultural Foundation of Uganda, highlighted that “The museum’s focus on environmental conservation is particularly important, given the climate change challenges we are facing in the country. Semei Kakungulu’s legacy will inspire future generations to take action.”
“We are proud to see our local history and culture being preserved and promoted through this museum. It will be a valuable resource for our community and tourists alike.” His Royal Highness, Jude Mudoma, the Umukukha (King) of Inzu Ya Masaba cultural institution
The Semei Kakungulu Museum is expected to attract tourists from around the world, contributing to the growth of Uganda’s tourism industry and local economic development. According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), international tourist arrivals worldwide are expected to rise to 1.8 billion by 2030, with city tourism being a significant driver of growth.
Public visits
The Museum will open to the public starting tomorrow, Friday, 29th November, 2024 and will be free to the general public until Wednesday, 4th December, 2024. Thereafter, the Museum will always be open to the general public from Mondays to Sundays, 9:00am to 6:00pm at a fee. You can book via 0770824466.
About CCFU and it’s efforts to safeguard built heritage
CCFU is a local non-governmental organisation established in 2006 to promote the appreciation of culture as vital to human development that responds to our diverse identities. Our work hinges on three programme areas, which are; cultural heritage safeguarding and promotion, cultural rights promotion and managing cultural diversity.
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CCFU has documented historical buildings and sites in Uganda’s major cities to highlight heritage safeguarding as a key issues and in 2022, the Foundation in collaboration with the Uganda Railways Corporation restored the Jinja Railway station main building and established the first ever Railway Museum in Uganda.
