Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiqueties has today received 39 cultural heritage artefacts from Cambridge University, UK.
These treasured pieces were taken by British colonial administrators, anthropologists, missionaries, and soldiers during the 1890s and early 1900s. They have been housed at Cambridge University’s Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology for over 100 years.
The artefacts, sourced from various regions in Uganda, include a head-dress made of human hair from Lango, beautifully decorated pots from Ankole, and a Lubaale vessel from Buganda. Among the returned artefacts are five Sacred Twins (Balongo) belonging to the Buganda Kingdom, which will be returned to the Wamala Tombs after acclimatization.
This landmark achievement marks a significant step in repatriating Africa’s lost heritage, wrongfully acquired during British colonial rule. The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities expresses gratitude to the Andrew Mellon Foundation for funding support and looks forward to showcasing these historical objects in an upcoming exhibition, boosting tourism and Uganda’s cultural heritage.
The return of these artefacts is a celebration of Uganda’s rich cultural heritage and a testament to the country’s resilience and determination to reclaim its lost treasures.
The artefacts, will be kept at Uganda Museum in Kampala, will be displayed for viewing on June 12 and were received by the State Minister for Tourism, Mr Martin Mugarra and Uganda Civil Aviation Authority Director General, Mr Fred Bamwesigye.
