The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has praised President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government, and other partners for their strong support in restoring the Kasubi Royal Tombs, which were destroyed by fire more than a decade ago.
Mayiga made the remarks on December 12, 2025, while inspecting the restoration works at Kasubi in Kampala. The rehabilitation works started in 2014, four years after the historic tombs were gutted by a devastating fire on March 16, 2010.
The Kasubi Tombs are the burial grounds of Buganda kings and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. When the fire broke out in 2010, it shocked the nation and the international community because of the site’s deep cultural and historical value.
The main structure, locally known as Muzibu Azaala Mpanga, was completely destroyed, along with priceless cultural artifacts.
“The journey to rebuild the tombs has been long and demanding, requiring patience, unity, and significant financial resources. He revealed that more than 13 billion shillings have so far been spent on the restoration works,” Mayiga Said
He noted that government support came in the form of direct funding, technical guidance, and security, which helped ensure that the restoration followed the original cultural and architectural designs.
“Because of the huge cost involved, we cannot stop thanking President Museveni and the government for standing with Buganda throughout this journey,” Mayiga added.
Mayiga also explained that the restoration was done carefully using traditional materials and skills, including spear grass, reeds, bark cloth, and wood, in line with Buganda customs and UNESCO requirements.
Cultural experts, clan leaders, and artisans were closely involved to preserve the authenticity of the site.
In addition, the Katikkiro thanked the people of Buganda for their unity and commitment.
He appreciated the central government, cultural institutions, development partners, private companies, and individual well-wishers who donated money, materials, and expertise over the years.
“The rebuilding of Kasubi Tombs shows what we can achieve when we work together,” this was not only about buildings, but about restoring our identity, history, and pride as a people,” He said.
He further noted that the completion of the main restoration works marks a major milestone for Buganda Kingdom and Uganda as a whole, and it strengthens the country’s cultural tourism sector.
The Kasubi Tombs now stand as a symbol of resilience, cooperation, and respect for cultural heritage, reminding Ugandans and the world of the importance of protecting historical sites for future generations.
