Why the Uganda Museum is Closing for 10 Months

The Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) has announced that the Uganda Museum will be closed to the public for ten months to undergo extensive renovations and upgrades aimed at revamping its look and enhancing its historical and cultural significance.

The UTB stated that this comprehensive refurbishment aims to preserve and elevate the museum's rich historical, cultural, and natural heritage for future generations.

The upgrades will include the modernization of existing structures, installation of new facilities, cataloging, digitizing, and extensive training, restoration, and renovation efforts to bring the Uganda National Museum up to international standards.

"The upgrades are part of the government's commitment to promoting and preserving Uganda's cultural heritage and improving the visitor experience at the site to match global standards," reads the UTB’s statement dated July 28.

The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities confirmed that the renovation project will be funded by the World Bank under the additional financing for the Competitiveness and Enterprise Development Project (CEDP-AF).

Ms. Lily Ajarova, Executive Director of UTB, welcomed the renovations, emphasizing the museum's critical role in preserving Uganda’s rich history and culture.

"We understand the importance of the Uganda National Museum as a key site for the preservation of Uganda’s rich history and culture, provision of educational resources, attraction of tourists, support to research as well as our cultural identity," Ms. Ajarova said.

"This temporary closure is a vital step to ensure that the museum continues to serve as a premier site for both local and international visitors."

Located in the heart of Kampala, the Uganda Museum is the oldest and largest museum in Uganda and East Africa.

Established by the British government in 1908, it houses Uganda’s most significant historical and cultural artifacts.

The museum has not seen significant investment since 1954, with only minor additions made in 1962, including the Independence Gallery. These areas, along with the Natural History Gallery, are now in dire need of rehabilitation, according to the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities.

During the renovation period, Ms. Jackline Besigye Nyiracyiza, the acting commissioner for museums and monuments, assured the public that the museum's artifacts would be carefully relocated and stored to ensure their protection.

She also encouraged Ugandans to explore other cultural sites and monuments across the country that remain open during this time.