The Kabalega Foundation in partnership with the Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom, the Ministry of Tourism Wildlife and Antiquities and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on Monday commissioned the “Kabalega Cultural Square” which will be built in Hoima City.
The ‘Kabalega Cultural Square’ architectural design was unveiled during the Inaugural Kabalega Memorial Lecture held at Kampala Serena Hotel.
“Even 100 years after his death, his legacy will live on,” said the Prime Minister of Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom Owek. Andrew Byakutaga Ateenyi.
Owek noted that Omukama Cwa II Kabalega holds a special place in the history of Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom, and the celebration of 100 Years of his legacy is an opportunity to reflect on the good he made towards the society in the development of the Kingdom, but also national level in his contribution to the fight against colonialism.
“Omukama Kabalega holds a special place in the history of Africa because of his pan-Africanist nature, his constant resistance against colonialism and the fact that he was a unifier. In conclusion, we want to thank the president for naming the Airport after Omukama Kabalega,” he added.
Speaking on the same occasion, the Executive Director of Kabalaga Foundation, Prince Dr. James Isagara Kisoro, said Kabalega Cultural Square, a legacy project to mark 100 years’ commemoration, will include Kabalega’s monument and a library.
According to Prince Isagara, the Kabalega Cultural Square is strategically located next to the headquarters and central palace of Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom.
“The square will host; a Kabalega Monument, an Information Resource Centre, a conference centre, a cafe with African quizine cafe, Kabalega Foundation Offices, a Youth Centre, a Children’s Play Area, and an Entertainment Auditorium.”
Planned to sit in the foreground of Kabalega Cultural Square, Kabalega Monument is planned as a 20-feet marvel, across from the main palace of Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom. It will feature Omukama Kabalega adorned in his favourite traditional wear in a sited posture holding a spear as a symbol of strength and defence.
The activities to commemorate the legacy of Kabalega 100 years after his death will continue next year.
“Kabalega was not only a king but a hero and the grandfather of independence and resistance against colonial rule that other countries like Ghana benchmarked on,” said Solomon Karuhanga, Kabalega Foundation Programme Director.
He added: “I’m happy that everyone is here to celebrate Kabalega a hero under the theme “The role of culture in the promotion of development the case of Africa”.
The Kabalega Foundation seeks to preserve and promote the legacy of Omukama Cwa II Kabalega through service by contributing to achieving more profound and lasting change in the lives of people in the communities where they operate.