Mugaba Palace Reopens After Shs7 Billion Revamp to Boost Uganda's Cultural Tourism

The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities has unveiled the renovated Mugaba Palace in western Uganda’s Ankole region, transforming it into a key cultural tourism site.

Once the residence of the Omugabe, the king of Ankole Kingdom, the palace had deteriorated since the 1967 abolition of traditional kingdoms under President Apollo Milton Obote. Despite restoration of cultural institutions in 1993, Ankole remains officially unrecognized.

Over Shs7 billion was invested in the restoration, with hopes it will draw visitors interested in Uganda’s rich history alongside its famous wildlife safaris.

Acting Commissioner for Antiquities and Monuments, Jackie Nyiracyiza, described the palace as a fresh tourism product. She emphasized its role in sharing cultural narratives to boost revenue, targeting up to $50 million in the next 15 years via expanded offerings like agro-tourism featuring Ankole’s long-horned cattle.

The site will function as a hub for heritage displays, including artifacts, photos, and architecture that highlight inter-kingdom ties and Banyankole identity. It also promises to serve as a center for cultural dialogue.

Mbarara City Tourism Officer Allan Karakore Buhanda hailed the reopening, noting its importance to Banyankole history and potential for economic growth through preservation and public access.

Plans include farm tours and cultural exhibitions to offer authentic experiences, complementing nearby national parks and lakes to attract both local and global tourists.

This initiative aligns with Uganda’s push to broaden its tourism sector beyond nature into culture and community-based attractions.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)