Uganda Doubles Annual Contribution to Africa World Heritage Fund

Uganda has officially committed to doubling its annual financial contribution to the Africa World Heritage Fund (AWHF). Starting next financial year, the country’s subscription will rise from US$10,000 to US$20,000, signaling a strong push toward African ownership and sustainable preservation of natural and cultural landmarks.

Doreen Katusiime, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, made the announcement during the closing session of a five-day AWHF strategic colloquium and UNESCO workshop held in Naguru, Kampala. The gathering convened heritage experts, UNESCO focal points, and representatives from over 45 African nations to evaluate the fund’s two-decade history and chart its course for the future.

Katusiime noted that Uganda had maintained the $10,000 contribution since entering a cooperation agreement three years ago. By raising this amount, the government hopes to lead by example and inspire fellow member states to increase their financial backing, reducing reliance on external donors.

“As Uganda, we felt that we should lead by example. If we start subscribing, then we encourage other partner states to start contributing,” Katusiime stated, pointing out that resource constraints have long hindered the fund’s operational capacity.

The strategic meeting also addressed Africa’s continued underrepresentation on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Experts discussed adapting international conservation standards to better reflect African contexts and ensuring that heritage preservation directly benefits local communities and national economies.

Read more about this development on Nile Post.