By Kisa Kasifa | Project Manager
The map was launched and disseminated to stakeholders on the 23rd of November 2023 in Mbale. The launch event was organised to raise the profile of the historic properties and the importance of their safeguarding. The event was attended by key stakeholders such as owners of historic properties, Mbale City Council, Inzu Ya Masaba Cultural Institution, tour operators, academia and the media.
The production of the map will support CCFU to advocate for the enaction of an ordinance to promote and safeguard historic properties in Mbale; promote tourism by diversifying the range of tourist attractions in the city and bring to life Mbale’s history.
At the same event, CCFU unveiled a project to restore the Semei Kakungulu Heritage Site from the effects of climate change. The project is implemented in partnership with the International National Trusts Organisation with support from the British Council’s Cultural Protection Fund. The project also demonstrates CCFU’s commitment to protecting and promoting Uganda’s built and natural heritage.
Key messages by speakers
Ms. Nabwire Gertrude who represented the Mayor of Mbale City appreciated CCFU for documenting heritage properties in the city, noting that “I did not know that most of the buildings that are profiled are of historical importance and this is going to help City Council to strengthen efforts toward their protection.”
Mr. Godwin Wambui, representing the Umukhukha (King of Bugisu) thanked CCFU for its work towards safeguarding historic buildings in the Mbale and Bugisu region. He said the region has plenty of sites that need to be safeguarded and promoted, and welcomed any further support that may arise. He pledged support to CCFU and the Semei Kakungulu family towards the restoration project.
Mr. Fredrick Nsibambi, the Deputy Executive Director of CCFU noted “Mbale city is endowed with properties of historical, religious, educational and cultural significance that represent different aspects of our human existence, ways of life, architectural knowledge and skills and social organisation and how these have evolved over the years. There is a need to safeguard and promote them”. He added “This map will go a long way in raising awareness about the need to safeguard and promote our built and natural heritage. If well protected, our historic buildings can become a vehicle for social and economic transformation through many ways including cultural tourism, cultural entrepreneurship and in promoting social cohesion.”
Ms. Winnie Nambubi, the Senior Tourism Officer, Mbale City said “We thank CCFU for their efforts to promote cultural heritage in Mbale. This will help us to increase the number of tourist attractions, especially with the production of the map that highlights historic places in our city.”
Dr. Shannon Kakungulu of the Semei Kakungulu said that safeguarding heritage sites demonstrates the important role that culture contributes to the development of nations and called upon the Mbale City Council to support efforts geared towards cultural heritage preservation.
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