The Minister for Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, Col Tom Butiime, has emphasized the need for deliberate efforts to preserve and promote Uganda’s rich cultural heritage.
Addressing guests at the Commemoration of the African World Heritage Day and National Cultural Heritage Conference in Kampala, Butiime stressed the importance of strengthening cultural awareness in Uganda.
“As we gather here today, it is our deliberate intention to preserve and promote our rich cultural legacy, ensuring that our heritage remains a vibrant and integral part of our national identity,” he remarked.
He outlined that the Ministry of Tourism will continue to prioritize the promotion and sustainable use of cultural heritage resources through partnerships, public engagement, and the utilization of digital technologies.
“We will enhance access to our heritage and ensure its relevance and resilience amidst contemporary circumstances and developments,” Butiime affirmed.
Butiime highlighted that the conference, organized as part of the broader process to commemorate the World African Heritage Day and International Museums Day, serves to raise awareness about the importance of Africa’s diverse natural and cultural heritage. It also encourages active participation in conservation efforts for the benefit of present and future generations.
He underscored that the occasion provides an opportunity for people worldwide, particularly in Africa, to celebrate the continent’s exceptional cultural and natural heritage.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Doreen Katusiime, disclosed significant government investments in capacity building and institutional strengthening in cultural heritage management.
“We are focusing on training programs, workshops, and partnerships with local and international organizations to equip our professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively preserve and promote our heritage,” she stated.
Katusiime emphasized the importance of private sector involvement, noting that without it, the public sector cannot thrive.
She outlined concrete government actions, from restoring historic sites and monuments to establishing museums and cultural centers, to engage the public, appreciate, and enjoy the diverse heritage.
Despite achievements, Katusiime stressed the need to adopt sustainable strategies and collaborative approaches to address challenges.
“We must engage in dialogue, foster partnerships, and empower local communities to become stewards of our heritage,” she urged.
Speaking under the theme “Strengthening Uganda’s Cultural Heritage for Sustainable Development and Socio-Economic Transformation,” Jackline Nyirackiza, the Acting Commissioner of Museums and Monuments, emphasized the evolving nature of Uganda’s cultural heritage.
Nyirackiza underscored the importance of engaging stakeholders to improve and conserve heritage sites for posterity.
She highlighted the intertwining relationship between cultural heritage and the environment, emphasizing the necessity of promoting it for the benefit of future generations.