Surpassing pre-COVID-19 levels by an impressive 137 percent as of December 2023, the Uganda Museum has witnessed a remarkable increase in visitor numbers. This resurgence signifies a significant recovery for the tourism sector, which was severely disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic-induced lockdown.
“Last year the museum welcomed 131,508 visitors compared to 67,366 in 2022, with 87 percent being domestic visitors.” Minister of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, Tom Butime, revealed during the belated Africa Worldwide Heritage Day celebrations
From 2017 to date, Minister Butime highlighted a surge of 95 percent in visitors to all museums and historical sites. While foreign visitors saw a staggering growth of 494.5 percent, domestic visitors increased by 77.2 percent. According to the minister this growth, demonstrates the resilience of the sector amidst challenging circumstances.
“The importance of collaboration to build a future where economic prosperity is intertwined with sustainable cultural preservation.” Minister Butime in his commitment to the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage emphasized.
Doreen Katusiime permanent Secretary of MoTWA emphasized the significance of the Museums and Monuments Act 2023, which replaced the 1967 Act. She highlighted the need for increased private investment in the sector, building upon the government’s foundational efforts.
Katusiime stressed the importance of consolidating tangible and intangible cultural heritage under a single ministry for more efficient management and emphasized the need for continued strategic interventions and dialogue among stakeholders for sector development.
She said that with the changes in the ministries, some heritage sites then remained in the hands of the government, whereas some important sites were abandoned as the museums were separated for culture. Up to today, they still have the tangible aspects of culture under the Ministry of Tourism and the intangible aspects under the Ministry of Culture. They still hope that one day all these will be brought under one ministry so that they can be managed better.
Jackiline Nyiracyiza commissioner for Museums and Monuments underscored the importance of understanding Uganda’s rich cultural heritage and the potential for profitable tourism if managed effectively. She emphasized the need for strategic planning and collaboration for the sector’s sustainable growth and benefit for all stakeholders.
