Dokolo, Uganda – The Minister of State for Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, Hon. Bahinduka Mugarra Martin, has launched the construction of the Dokolo Heritage Center.
The UGX 15 billion project, set to be completed in two phases over a year, will honor Kabaka Mwanga and Omukama Kabalega, who were captured by the British in Kangai, Dokolo, in 1899.
Hon. Mugarra urged the people of Dokolo and Lango to support the project, emphasizing its cultural and economic benefits. He also acknowledged the late Hon. Cecilia Atim Ogwal for her role in advocating for the center.
Dokolo – Amolatar Road will be declared a tourism road, following a request by Hon. Tom Butime, the Minister of Tourism. This will improve accessibility and attract more visitors.
Bazil Ajer, Director at the Ministry of Tourism, highlighted the need to empower local workers, a response to Dokolo South MP Felix Okot Ogong’s call for prioritizing local labor.
Okot commended the government for awarding the construction contract to Rhoi Service, a local firm, instead of the UPDF.
Dokolo District currently lacks a tourism officer. The Ministry of Tourism has allocated UGX 1.6 billion for district support in FY 2024/25, but districts must have a tourism officer to qualify for funding.
Jackline Nyiracyiza Besigye, Commissioner at the Ministry of Tourism, revealed that Uganda has repatriated 39 artifacts from Europe in the last two years.
She emphasized the importance of restoring and displaying them in Ugandan museums.
Local leaders expressed optimism about the project’s economic impact. Dokolo District Chairperson, James Otoo Apili, requested compensation for those who invested in the land where the center is being built.
Peter Omiat, General Foreman at Rhoi Service, stated that the first phase of the project, valued at UGX 8 billion, will include accommodation facilities and a residence.
He assured that local workers would be prioritized.
Dokolo Heritage Center will preserve Uganda’s history while creating economic opportunities.
Original Story: LBS Radio
