Alliance Française Kampala on Tuesday launched a month-long program, Ethics of Loaning: Strengthening the Discourse on Restitution in Uganda, aimed at involving communities in discussions on the return and ethical management of cultural heritage.
The initiative, supported by the Franco-German Fund, seeks to engage artists, scholars, youth, and local communities not just museums and institutions.
“Uganda’s history, shaped by colonial expropriation, gives urgency and authenticity to these discussions,” said Loïc Boivin, Director of Alliance Française Kampala.
“This program ensures Ugandans have a say in how their heritage is managed and returned.”
Boivin stressed that dialogue must be reciprocal.
“Cultural conversations should flow both ways. Local voices must influence global perspectives,” he said.
Barbara Emolot, Culture Program Coordinator at Goethe Zentrum Kampala, said the program fills a gap in Uganda’s participation in restitution debates.
“In West Africa and Kenya, this discussion is vibrant. Uganda has been quiet. We decided to start talking, especially after artefacts were returned,” she said.
The exhibition showcases photos of returned artefacts, highlighting what was taken, what has returned, and what is still missing.
“This is not just about looking at objects. It sparks conversations, supports the creative economy, and encourages advocacy for more artefacts to come home,” Emolot added.
Phillip Balimunsi, curator at Uganda National Culture Centre and Nommo Gallery, emphasised the social dimensions of restitution.
“Many objects came from communities. Yet returns are negotiated government to government, leaving locals out,” he said. “Ugandans must reclaim authority over their own heritage stories.”
The Ethics of Loaning program draws inspiration from global efforts, including France’s Savoy-Sarr Report and Germany’s return of the Benin Bronzes.
The exhibition runs at Nommo Gallery from October 3–24, 2025, with an opening ceremony on October 3 at 5:00 PM.
Organizers say the program aims to strengthen local engagement and ensure Uganda’s voice shapes the international restitution conversation.