The restoration of the Kasubi Tombs of Buganda, which were previously on the danger list, was successfully addressed during the 45th Committee World Heritage meeting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
The Kasubi Tombs hold significant cultural and historical importance and are known for their remarkable architectural heritage.
Historically, in 1884, after the passing of Muteesa I, the site was transformed into the royal burial grounds, and it has since been the final resting place for three of his successors:
Kabaka Mwanga in 1910, Daudi Chwa II in 1939, and Edward Muteesa II in 1971. However, in 2010, a devastating fire severely damaged the site, which was already listed as a World Heritage site.
After the fire, Buganda faced a period of great sorrow and hardship. However, the appointment of the new ‘Katikiro’Prime Minister, Charles Peter Mayiga (CPM), brought hope.
He initiated the “Ettofaali” campaign, a fundraising effort that spanned different places and states, resulting in the successful reconstruction of the Kasubi Tombs. This campaign has been ongoing for several years, and Mayiga has made significant progress in implementing his plan.
Recently, Kabaka Muwenda Mutebi of Buganda appealed to UNESCO and the World Heritage delegates to lift the danger status from the “Masiro” of Buganda, allowing the site to once again welcome visitors from around the world.
In the Riyadh meeting held in Saudi Arabia, the ban was lifted, fulfilling the King’s request and bringing immense joy to the entire Kingdom.
Mayiga also mentioned that a substantial portion of the funding, totaling 2.5 billion Shillings, was allocated to building a perimeter wall, with the remaining funds earmarked for various project-related expenses.
However, challenges related to financial transparency persisted, and in 2020, a local newspaper reported that the United States Embassy decided to withhold its $250,000 contribution to the project due to concerns about accountability.
We celebrate this achievement as a dream come true for the Baganda people, who had been praying daily for the restoration of the Kasubi Tombs. Congratulations to the Baganda for reaching this significant milestone.