The Japanese Ambassador to UNESCO, His Excellency Kano Takehiro, on Wednesday paid a visit to the historic Kasubi Royal Tombs in Kampala to evaluate the ongoing restoration efforts at the UNESCO-listed cultural site.
Ambassador Kano was warmly received by Buganda’s Minister of Culture and Heritage, Dr. Anthony Wamala, who led the delegation on a tour of the site and shared key updates regarding the rehabilitation project.
Minister Wamala assured the ambassador that the restoration is in its final stages, with most structural works completed and only minor finishing touches remaining. He highlighted new safety enhancements, including modern fire suppression systems and the use of fire-resistant materials—measures intended to prevent a recurrence of the devastating 2010 blaze that led to the site’s placement on UNESCO’s List of World Heritage in Danger.
“The Kingdom is fully prepared to manage any emergencies that may arise in the future. These upgrades will not only protect the site but also improve its overall resilience,” Dr. Wamala stated.
Ambassador Kano commended the Kingdom of Buganda and the Ugandan government for their unwavering commitment to restoring the tombs, describing the project as a model for global heritage conservation.
“The restoration of the Kasubi Tombs stands as a powerful symbol of cultural resilience and cooperation,” Kano remarked. “It offers valuable lessons for other traditional monarchies around the world striving to preserve their heritage in the face of modern challenges.”
He expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts between the Buganda Kingdom, the central government, and UNESCO, emphasising that this united approach is vital to securing the tombs’ reinstatement on the World Heritage List.
Najib Nsubuga, Acting Director of Buganda Heritage and Tourism Board (BHTB), revealed that efforts are also underway to enhance the visitor experience. “We are developing guest-friendly amenities, including designated visitor areas, parking facilities, and other essential infrastructure to support cultural tourism,” Nsubuga said.
The ambassador was accompanied by a high-level delegation that included Ms. Agoye Rose, Uganda’s Commissioner to UNESCO; Mr. Dennis Lukwago from the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities; Mr. Draecabo Charles, Coordinator of the UNESCO Uganda Office; and several other officials.
The Kasubi Tombs, a sacred burial site for Buganda kings and a symbol of Ganda culture, were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001. Their ongoing restoration is considered crucial not only for cultural preservation but also for Uganda’s international heritage profile.