This group of artisans has made an indelible mark on the global stage, producing intricate bronze sculptures, including the prestigious BBC African Footballer of the Year trophy.
Despite this, their groundbreaking work remains largely unappreciated locally.
The Rwenzori Founders Art Centre, located 11 kilometres north of Kasese, is a unique blend of a sculpture gallery, bronze foundry, and coffee bar.
Established in 2008 with support from the UK-based Ruwenzori Foundation, the centre began with three Ugandan craftsmen who trained at England’s Pangolin Editions foundry.
Today, it boasts a team of over 20 artisans dedicated to creating art that bridges culture, conservation, and community development.
Blending Culture, Conservation, and Artistry
Isaac Okwi, the centre’s director, explained the vision behind the initiative.
“We wanted to build something distinctly Ugandan but globally relevant. Bronze, with its deep ties to African antiquity seen in the works of Ife and Benin, seemed the perfect medium.”
The centre’s pièce de résistance has been its production of the BBC African Footballer of the Year trophy for eight consecutive years.
In addition, it has crafted a series of bronze clan totems reflecting Uganda’s cultural heritage.
These totems, researched and designed by British sculptor Jon Buck, draw inspiration from traditional Ugandan customs and tribal histories.
“Our mission goes beyond art,” Okwi emphasised.
“We aim to merge cultural preservation with environmental conservation while uplifting our community through access to fresh water, healthcare, and employment. This journey is ongoing, and we constantly seek ways to align our work with these principles.”
Bronze art, relatively new to Uganda, stands apart from the conventional tourist crafts.
The sculptures, crafted from sustainably recycled local materials or imported supplies where necessary, showcase a level of craftsmanship rarely seen in the region.
Despite the challenges of sourcing materials and working in a niche medium, Okwi lauded his team’s resilience and creativity in overcoming obstacles.
Global Accolades, Local Neglect
The BBC commission, overseen by Peter Oloya, one of Rwenzori Founders’ artisans, epitomises the potential of Ugandan talent.
“This was a privilege and a significant milestone for us,” Oloya said, though he remained tight-lipped about the value of the trophies.
The centre’s artistic portfolio extends beyond trophies, featuring works inspired by Uganda’s rich traditions, village life, and wildlife.
These pieces are marketed locally, in lodges, and internationally through exhibitions in Kampala and abroad.
However, sales remain inconsistent, averaging 15 sculptures per month, with prices ranging from $1,200 to $4,000 (Shs4.5 million to Shs15 million), depending on design complexity and weight.
While the foundry draws over 20 groups of visitors monthly, the local market remains indifferent to its offerings.
Marvin Lule, a Ugandan craft enthusiast, praised the initiative, saying, “Their work is extraordinary. Their impact on tourism and local talent is commendable. I encourage Ugandans to support them.”
During the World Tourism and Explore Rwenzori Week in Kasese on 28 September 2024, State Minister for Tourism Martin Bahinduka Mugarra acknowledged the centre’s value.
“This bronze foundry is a treasure that has placed Uganda on the global map. It’s a money-making venture that deserves local support under the ‘Buy Uganda, Build Uganda’ ethos,” he remarked.
Preserving Heritage, Enriching Communities
Beyond art, Rwenzori Founders significantly contributes to the local economy by training artisans, restoring the environment through tree planting, and improving community infrastructure with clean water, electricity, and roads.
The architect-designed Rwenzori Sculpture Gallery has also become a tourist magnet, showcasing bronze sculptures alongside pieces carved from soapstone and marble.
Artists such as Jon Buck, David Bwambale, Martin Jennings, and Peter Oloya have contributed to the gallery’s impressive repertoire. Yet, the disconnect between the centre’s global acclaim and local awareness persists.
Rwenzori Founders stands as a testament to Uganda’s untapped creative potential, blending artistry, culture, and conservation to leave an indelible mark on the world.
It is a clarion call to celebrate and support homegrown talent before it is better recognised abroad than at home.