Semei Kakungulu museum launched, to promote cultural heritage

The Semei Kakungulu Museum in Mbale City has been launched.

Promoters have revealed that the major objective is to demonstrate the role of cultural heritage in mitigating and adapting climate change effects.

The museum was launched on Thursday, November 28, at Gangama Hill, Kasanvu village in Mbale City by the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Tourism, Doreen Katusiime who represented the Minister of Wildlife, Tourism and Antiquities, Tom Butime.

The Minister of State for East African Community Affairs, James Magode Ikuya (M) cutting a tape as he was launching the Semei Kakungulu Museum at Gangama hill at Kasanvu village in Mbale City on Thursday.

The museum was established by the Cross-Cultural Foundation of Uganda (CCFU) in partnership with the Semei Kakungulu family and the International National Trusts Organisation (INTO).

British Council’s Cultural Protection Fund, provided financial support under the implemented project titled “Withstanding Change: Heritage Amidst Climate Uncertainty.”  

The main objective of this project was to restore and safeguard the Semei Kakungulu heritage site on Gangama Hill in Mbale City and turn the site into a public museum that demonstrates various local practices and indigenous knowledge effective in addressing climate change.

In his message read by Katusiime, Minister Butime emphasised that the opening of the Museum will enrich the country’s tourism products, especially for Mbale City and the eastern tourism route.

“It is expected that Mbale City will register an increase in the number of visitors, thus contributing to increased revenue for the city. It will also create job opportunities and a market for products of our people,”  stated Butime.

He said, “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.”

CCFU's Heritage Trusts Manager Simon Musasizi (L) explaining to the Minister of State for East African Community Affairs James Magode Ikuya (2nd L) about the Semei Kakungulu Museum during its launch at Gangama hill at Kasanvu village in Mbale City on Thursday. Looking on is the Mbale RCC Asumin Nasike (2nd R) and CCFU's Executive Director Barbra Babweteera (R).

The Minister of State for East African Community Affairs, James Magode Ikuya, appreciated the restoration of the Museum, saying that it portrays the heritage of Uganda and Africa. 

He said that it will also re-link people with their African heritage if they are to continue to build East Africa and Africa at large.

Barbra Babweteera, the Executive Director, of the Cross-Cultural Foundation of Uganda highlighted that the museum's focus on environmental conservation and Semei Kakungulu's legacy will inspire future generations to take action.

 Babweteera said that the site and museum on 3.5 acres stand as a testament to the remarkable life and contribution of Semei Kakungulu.

It also highlights his contribution as a significant figure in environmental conservation through his mvule tree planting efforts.

“After completing the restoration of the house, our vision is to grow this site as one that evokes memories of a man whose influence transcends time and echoes in the rich tapestry of Uganda’s history, having left behind an outstanding landmark in the establishment of Uganda as a nation,” Babweteera explained.

The Minister of State for East African Community Affairs James Magode Ikuya (3rd L) joined by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities Doreen Katusiime (M) and the Country Director British Council Millicent Mugabi (3rd R) to cut a cake while at the launch of the Semei Kakungulu Museum at Gangama Hill in Kasanvu village Mbale City on Thursday.

Richard Wambedde from the Inzu ya Masaba Cultural Institution who represented Umukhuka III, said they were proud to see their local history and culture being preserved and promoted through the restored museum,

He added that it will be a valuable resource for their community and tourists.

Millicent Mugabi, the Country Director of British Council Uganda expressed her appreciation of the Cultural Protection Fund and its vision of putting people at the heart of cultural heritage protection and supporting organizations to safeguard cultural heritage whilst seeking to strengthen individual, community and societal identity.

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.

 Stakeholders at the events included: Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) chairperson Lilly Ajarova, Jackline Nyiracyiza the Commissioner of Museums and Antiquities, Buganda Kingdom’s representative, tour operators, civil society and the local community leaders.