Delay of Kasubi report holding reconstruction work

Apr 28, 2012

The delayed release of the Kasubi Tombs fire report has affected the reconstruction plans of the cultural site, Mengo has said.

By Jeff Andrew Lule    

The delayed release of the Kasubi Tombs fire report has affected the reconstruction plans of the cultural site, Mengo has said.

During their Lukiiko [Parliament] sitting at Bulange in Mengo last week, members argued that government had acted very slowly on the matter, which is in turn delaying reconstruction.

“Imagine the report was completed in March 16, 2011 but findings have never been made public. Let us have the findings for the people to know the culprits and we move on,” Nfefe Sserubogo from Bugerere said.

Two years back, the cultural tombs where four of Buganda’s kings were buried went up into flames, destroying most of the regalia.

The cultural preservations housed kings Walugembe Mutesa I, Basamula Mwanga, Daudi Chwa and Edward Mutesa II.
Ibrahim Seguya from Busiro said many people had refused to contribute anything until they know what is in the report.

Peter Kizito, a representative for the Kabaka said the delay has downplayed the morale of people and other funders who wish to support the activity.

Buganda Premier, Eng JB Walusimbi said Uganda’s Prime Minister, Amama Mbabazi had promised to present the report in Parliament but failed to make it.

“I am going to find out what is going on. I urge all people to be calm. Maybe he was caught up with other things. I know it has affected our work but let us be patient,” he said.

The members gave government an ultimatum of two weeks, in which the report has to be presented.

Walusimbi said the reconstruction work was also slowed by poor funding and lack of construction materials.

“The construction at Wamala and Kasubi tombs has been restrained by lack of funds and materials like the reeds and grass used in roofing. These materials are scarce, “ he said.

He asked all chiefs to mobilize people to start bringing the materials to move forward.

Walusimbi said contractors at both sites are working together with the technocrats from United Nations Education, Science and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).

Walusimbi said they would have a retreat with all Mengo Cabinet ministers in May to discuss various issues affecting the Kingdom and a way forward.

The chairperson of the health, education and social development, Dr Ben Kiwanuka said they were going to establish one technical school in every county to fight unemployment among the youth.

“We want all youths to have skills to start their own jobs. We are also promoting preventive health to make sure our people leave in good health,” he said.
 

(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});