Minister Mugarra Calls for Improved Road Infrastructure to Boost Kigezi Tourism

State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, has called for expedited efforts to improve road infrastructure in the Kigezi sub-region to support the growth of cultural and heritage tourism.

‎Speaking at the International Museums Day 2025 national celebrations held at the newly established Kabale Regional Museum, Mugarra emphasised that despite the region’s immense tourism potential, poor road networks have continued to hinder access to heritage sites.

"‎The establishment of the Kabale regional Museum, does not only reflects the cultural richness of the region but also serves as a catalyst for local development, education, and identity preservation."Minister Mugarra highlighted.

‎The event, held under the theme “Preserving Heritage, Transforming Communities".

‎‎Delivering remarks on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Doreen Katusiime, the Commissioner for Museums and Monuments,Geoffrey Seremba outlined Uganda’s journey in heritage conservation and key developments made in the museums sector.

‎"Uganda’s first heritage preservation law, enacted in 1934, laid the foundation for conservation efforts. This was later replaced by the Historical Monuments Act in 1967, and most recently, by the Museums and Monuments Act, passed with Parliament’s support.Seremba noted.

‎On behalf of the Permanent Secretary, Seremba shared the Ministry’s achievements under the Museums and Monuments Strategy (2023/24 – 2029/30):

‎309 heritage sites have been documented and gazetted. Two regional museums Soroti and Kabale have also been developed and equipped.

‎20 heritage sites have been titled, including Mugaba Palace, Bigo Byamugenyi, Nakayima, and Kibwetere site in Kanungu.

"Museums serve not only as centres of preservation but also as educational platforms aligned with Uganda’s curriculum, supporting outreach programs for primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions.Seremba emphasised.

‎The celebration in Kabale marked the second time International Museums Day has been held outside Kampala—following Gulu City in 2023, and reflects the government’s commitment to decentralise tourism development.

‎‎Kedress Mutabazi the Kabale municipality deputy Mayor says that Kabale have contributed much in the tourism industry and the development of the country.

‎Mutabazi added that Kabale deserves the tourism city because of her tourism sites.