By Ambrose Okwanga I April 29th 2026
The Minister of State for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, has announced that Uganda will commemorate International Museum Day 2026 in Jinja City on May 18, positioning the event as a platform to promote unity, cultural identity, and sustainable development.
This year’s global theme, “Museums: Uniting a Divided World,” alongside the national theme “Museums as Bridges of Unity and Shared Heritage,” reflects Uganda’s strategy to use culture as a tool for reconciliation and inclusion.
“This celebration promises to be an enlightening and inspiring event resonating with Uganda’s commitment to leveraging culture as a foundation for reconciliation, inclusion, and sustainable development” Bahinduka added.
Bahinduka says celebrations are aligned with key global priorities under the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly on sustainable tourism, peace, and partnerships.
He also highlighted Uganda’s growing success in cultural diplomacy, especially the return of historical artifacts.
“Through global partnerships, Uganda has become one of the few countries that has returned many artifacts in a short period,” he said, citing recoveries from institutions such as the University of Cambridge Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, Kenya, and the Netherlands.
He emphasized the role of museums as spaces for dialogue and peacebuilding. “Museum spaces offer learning, reflection, and a platform where voices can be heard, hence promoting cooperation and peace among people,” Mugarra noted.
The Ministry has invested in heritage sites including Barlonyo Memorial Site, Kabalega-Mwanga site, and Fort Patiko to promote unity and shared history.
Tourism continues to play a central role in Uganda’s economy under frameworks such as Uganda Vision 2040.
“Tourism generates foreign exchange earnings and employment, contributing significantly to Uganda’s economic growth,” he said, adding that the sector earned $1.3 billion in 2024 and supported over 800,000 jobs.
Mugarra also revealed that 43 repatriated artifacts from the Netherlands will be unveiled to the public during the celebrations.
“These artifacts have been out of the country for over 50 years, and we invite the public to come and witness this important moment as we also undertake research to establish their communities of origin” he said.