Bunyoro's Neglected Heritage Sites Raise Concerns Ahead of AFCON

With Uganda set to host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), leaders and residents in the Bunyoro region are voicing concerns over the neglected condition of crucial cultural heritage and tourism sites. They believe that if properly maintained and promoted, these locations could attract significant interest from visitors during and after the football tournament.

Key sites, including the Mparo Royal Tombs – the burial grounds of King Kabalega and Omukama Sir Tito Winyi – are reportedly suffering from neglect. An inspection of Kabalega’s burial site revealed issues such as overgrown vegetation, aging infrastructure, and a leaking roof, prompting dismay from cultural leaders like Bunyoro Chief Prince Okwir Fred Mugenyi Rucunya, who called the situation “shameful.”

Political figures, such as Hoima City Woman MP Asinansi Nyakato, are questioning the lack of development at these historically rich sites. Beyond Mparo, other attractions like the Kabalega Caves, Kibiro Hot Springs, and various monuments significant to Bunyoro’s history also reportedly lack the necessary infrastructure to accommodate tourists.

Residents are urging the Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom and the government to prioritize the identification, preservation, and development of these cultural assets. They see the AFCON tournament as a prime opportunity to showcase Bunyoro’s heritage beyond football, attracting visitors to explore the region’s history.

In response, the Bunyoro Kingdom’s Prime Minister, Andrew Byakutaga, acknowledged the concerns. He cited challenges related to the Omukama’s health but confirmed that the kingdom is collaborating with the Uganda Tourism Board to identify and develop key sites in anticipation of AFCON, aiming to leverage the tournament for both tourism and heritage preservation.

Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/375615/bunyoro-cultural-tourism-sites-face-neglect-ahead-of-afcon