In a gesture of deepening cultural diplomacy, the Japanese Ambassador to UNESCO, His Excellency Kano Takehiro, visited the historic Kasubi Royal Tombs in Kampala on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, to assess the progress of the ongoing restoration efforts at the UNESCO World Heritage site.
This visit underscores Japan’s commitment to supporting global heritage conservation and strengthening cultural ties between Japan and Uganda.
Ambassador Kano was warmly welcomed by Buganda’s Minister of Culture and Heritage, Dr. Anthony Wamala, who guided the ambassador and his delegation through the site. Minister Wamala shared important updates on the restoration project, revealing that most of the structural work is complete, with only minor finishing touches remaining.
The renovation efforts have also embraced significant safety upgrades, including modern fire suppression systems and the use of fire-resistant materials. These enhancements are designed to safeguard the tombs against future disasters like the devastating fire in 2010 that led to the site’s inclusion on UNESCO’s List of World Heritage in Danger.
“The kingdom is fully prepared to manage any emergencies that may arise in the future,” Dr. Wamala assured the ambassador. “These upgrades not only protect the site but also improve its resilience for the future.”
Ambassador Kano expressed his admiration for the Buganda Kingdom and the Ugandan government’s dedication to restoring the Kasubi Tombs, praising the project as an exemplary model for global heritage preservation.
“The restoration of the Kasubi Tombs stands as a powerful symbol of cultural resilience and cooperation,” he remarked. “It offers valuable lessons for other traditional monarchies around the world striving to preserve their heritage amidst modern challenges.”
The ambassador also highlighted the significance of the collaboration between the Buganda Kingdom, the Ugandan government, and UNESCO and emphasized that this united effort is crucial in ensuring the tombs’ reinstatement on the World Heritage List.
Japan’s support for this project is a prime example of how international cooperation can enhance cultural preservation and strengthen diplomatic relations.
Najib Nsubuga, Acting Director of the Buganda Heritage and Tourism Board (BHTB), also spoke about plans to improve the visitor experience at the site. These include the development of guest-friendly amenities such as designated visitor areas, parking facilities, and other infrastructure to support cultural tourism.
The Kasubi Tombs, decorated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, are the sacred burial grounds for Buganda’s kings and a cornerstone of Baganda culture and identity. Their restoration is more than a construction project; it is a symbol of national pride, cultural resilience, and inter-generational continuity.
As the restoration nears completion, the tombs are expected to reopen to the public with enhanced safety, cultural integrity, and visitor appeal, marking a new chapter for one of Uganda’s most treasured landmarks.
Ambassador Kano’s visit was accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Agoye Rose, Uganda’s Commissioner to UNESCO; Dennis Lukwago from the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities; Draecabo Charles, Coordinator of the UNESCO Uganda Office; and other distinguished officials.
This continued support from Japan reaffirms the power of cultural diplomacy and the shared responsibility of nations to preserve the cultural identities of humanity’s most cherished heritage sites.
