Kasubi Tombs restoration enters final stage

Buganda Prince Crispin Junju Kiweewa on Friday launched the final stage of restoration works at Kasubi Royal Tombs, a cultural tourism site.

The final phase involves roofing, furnishing both the inside and outside and the restoration of royal regalia.

The thatching technique at the tombs is quite unique and can hardly be compared to any other African or European thatching technique.

The grass is prepared in conical bundles which are laid onto the roof without being tied, except for the first layers at the bottom.

During the annual working tour of the site to check on the progress of the reconstruction, Junju installed the cultural pole as a sign of finalising the work. The pole at the entrance was erected on behalf of the Kabaka to guide the construction process.

Backed by the Katikiiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, Junju reported that he was instructed by the Kabaka to perform this ritual as a move to speed up the works.

"After this customary function, I am optimistic that very soon, works at Kasubi Tombs will be complete," Junju revealed.

In his address, Mayiga assured Ugandans that works were in high gear and advanced stages, with about 80% of the works complete.

Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga addressing the media with Prince Junju (left) and Twaha Kawaase. Photo by Wilfred Sanya

"Many people thought the works had stalled which is wrong. We have been working tirelessly throughout the years and the progress is visible now," Mayiga noted.

He explained that the construction and architectural works of the cultural site is not like those of other structures; because it is founded on tradition with norms and rituals that have to be followed during the construction process.

"This is a unique site with traditional attachments which needs a lot of work with the special people needed to perform various tasks. That's why work has been slow in the past because we had to follow rituals," he added.

Buganda's finance minister Robert Waggwa Nsibirwa pledged to avail the funds on time for the works not to slow down.

"The treasury will continue to provide funds to avail the necessary materials to complete the works on time," he assured the public.

The chairperson of the reconstruction committee, Kaddu Kiberu, informed Junju and Mayiga that most materials were available adding that reconstruction works were steadily progressing.

It is now nine years since Kasubi Tombs were destroyed in a fire leaving many some of the historical objects severely damaged. The tombs sit on a 64-acre of piece of land in Kasubi-Nabulagala in Rubaga division

The tombs house the remains of four fallen Buganda kings including Mwanga II, Mutesa I, Edward Mutesa II and Daudi Chwa.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) listed the tombs as a World Heritage Site, because of its uniqueness.