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A Royal Revival: Kasubi Tombs World Heritage Site Reconstruction Nears Completion
Located in the heart of Kampala, Uganda, the Kasubi Tombs, a significant cultural landmark, are being restored to their former state. The UNESCO World Heritage Site was severely damaged by a fire in 2010. After 15 years of meticulous reconstruction, the site is nearing completion.
On May 7, 2025, the Japanese Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, His Excellency Kano Takehiro, visited the tombs, commending the collaborative efforts of the Buganda Kingdom, the Government of Uganda, and UNESCO in restoring this revered site.
Takehiro commended the kingdom for successfully reconstructing the tombs while carefully preserving cultural aspects, values, and traditions. "This project remains a remarkable example of successful international cooperation on cultural heritage restoration, and the Japanese government is proud to have played a role in the reconstruction and ongoing works," he said. The Ambassador's words were echoed by the Minister for Culture, Heritage, Tourism, and Security in the Buganda Kingdom, Owekitibwa Anthony Wamala, who expressed gratitude for the Japanese government's support, including the installation of high-tech firefighting equipment within the tombs.
The reconstruction process of the Kasubi Tombs has been a long and complex one, involving the careful selection and maintenance of materials, as well as adherence to cultural norms and traditions. In September 2023, the UNESCO World Heritage Committee removed the Kasubi Tombs from the World Heritage in Danger list after it was damaged by fire in 2010. making it ready for opening to the public. According to Mr. Lukwago Denise, the site manager for the ongoing restoration works, the reconstruction work will include the development of the physical master plan and the ecosystem around the tombs to ensure their sustainability.
As the stakeholders involved in the project work tirelessly to ensure the site's restoration and preservation, and maintenance, the Secretary General National Commission for UNESCO, Ms. Rosie Agoi, emphasized the importance of fast-tracking the official launch of the world heritage site, which can be realized through a phased process. She added that collaboration and coordination among the stakeholders are key to the completion of the key tasks remaining ahead. "We need to work together to ensure the long-term preservation and sustainability of the Kasubi Tombs," she added that, the role of preserving and protecting the world heritage site is a tripartite responsibility shared among the Buganda Kingdom, the Government of Uganda, and UNESCO.
The official launch of the reconstructed Kasubi Tombs is expected to be realized before the end of December 2025, according to the Buganda Minister for Tourism. As the world looks forward to the official opening, the stakeholders involved in the project are confident that the Kasubi Tombs will continue to thrive as a significant cultural and historical site, thanks to the support of partners like the Japanese government, the Buganda Kingdom, and UNESCO.
About Kasubi Tombs
The Kasubi Tombs, also known as the Muzibu Azaala Mpanga in the local Luganda dialect, are more than just a cultural icon; they are a symbol of the rich history and heritage of the Buganda Kingdom. As the site reopens its doors to the public, it is expected to become a major tourist attraction, promoting cultural exchange and understanding. The reconstruction efforts have not only restored the physical structure of the tombs but have also revitalized the community's connection to their cultural heritage.
This project remains a remarkable example of successful international cooperation on cultural heritage restoration, and the Japanese government is proud to have played a role in the reconstruction and ongoing works.
