The Uganda National Museum, renowned as the oldest museum in East Africa, will temporarily close its doors on August 1, 2024, to undergo significant renovations.
This ten-month project aims to preserve and enhance the museum’s extensive collection of historical, cultural, and natural artifacts. The renovation will include restoring, refurbishing and modernizing to improve the visitor’s experience.
This effort is part of the Ugandan government’s broader initiative to promote and preserve the nation’s cultural heritage while aligning visitor services with global standards.
Lilly Ajarova, CEO of the Uganda Tourism Board, emphasized the importance of the renovations revealing that the museum is a testament to Uganda’s rich cultural heritage.
“This temporary closure is a vital step to ensure that the museum continues to serve as a premier site for both local and international visitors,” she stated.
The museum is home to ethnological, natural history, and traditional life collections that are a source of national pride.
Despite its historical importance, the museum has not seen significant investments since 1954. Although a few additions were made in 1962, including the Independence Gallery, these areas, along with the Natural History Gallery, are now in need of rehabilitation.
During the temporary closure, tourists and locals are encouraged to visit other cultural sites across Uganda. Additionally, 10 historical sites and monuments with visitor amenities will remain accessible. These include Nyero Rock Paintings in Kumi, Sir Samuel Baker (Patiko) Fort in Gulu, Bigo Bya Mugyenyi in Sembabule, Kibiro Hot Salt Village and Springs in Hoima, Emin Pasha Site in Wedelai, Dolwe Island Rock Paintings sites, and others.
The Government of Uganda, with financing from the World Bank under the Additional Financing for the Competitiveness and Enterprise Development Project (CEDP-AF), is using part of the funds to undertake the cataloguing, digitizing, training, and restoration/rehabilitation/renovation of the Uganda National Museum to meet international standards.