Soroti Regional Museum in Uganda's eastern city of Soroti is set to host the national celebrations for the International Museum Day on Saturday (May 18).

The local theme is 'Museums shaping knowledge for the future', derived from the global theme of 'Museums for education and research'. 

It is the first time for the commemoration to be held in Teso sub-region.

A woman displaying African jewellery at the Soroti Regional Museum ahead of International Museum Day.

The tourism ministry, through its Department of Museums and Monuments, is the key player of this event.

Cathy Achom, the assistant curator at Soroti Regional Museum, said the venue is set as are several exhibitors already.

“We have received Ateker Museum, Institution of the Umukuuka (Bamasaaba cultural heritage), the Karamojong team and historical Artifacts & Artisan craftsmanship,” she said.

Vice-President Jessica Alupo is expected to preside over the event as the chief guest.

"The public of Soroti and Teso at large is invited to come and celebrate the rich tapestry of our cultural heritage and the transformative power of museums in shaping a brighter future for our nation,” said Achom.

Paul Odongo of Ateker museum showing how to play a piano, a famous Iteso musical instrument.

Paul Odongo from Ateker Museum said they are displaying all the Teso cultural instruments and promised to explain to the community their importance.

“This helps our people know certain musical instruments that are almost disappearing. It is proper for parents to bring their children to see these instruments here."

Odongo said the mortar and pestle has disappeared from the homes of Iteso as families now resort to grinding their groundnuts using modern machines.

Margaret Muzaki, an exhibitor from Bugisu, carried several treasured cultural instruments to display, explaining that Bagisu treasure their culture.