Uganda Museum To Open In June 2025

The Uganda National Museum is set to reopen in June 2025, following a comprehensive renovation that began in August 2024. This extensive ten-month project, spearheaded by the Department of Museums and Monuments, aims to preserve and enhance the museum’s rich historical, cultural, and natural heritage. As the oldest museum in East Africa, the Uganda National Museum will emerge from this refurbishment with significant upgrades designed to offer a modern, world-class visitor experience while safeguarding Uganda’s cultural legacy for future generations.

Key improvements include critical structural repairs and the installation of state-of-the-art facilities to elevate the museum’s standing as a premier cultural destination. These upgrades reflect the Ugandan government’s ongoing commitment to preserving the nation’s history while simultaneously making the museum more accessible and enjoyable for visitors, both local and international.

Besigye Jackline Nyiracyiza, the Acting Commissioner of Museums and Monuments, stressed the importance of these renovations in ensuring the longevity of the museum’s exhibits and artifacts. “Throughout the renovation, we’ve carefully relocated and stored our collections to ensure their protection,” Nyiracyiza explained. She assured the public that the museum’s invaluable historical treasures are being well preserved and will be ready for display once the renovations are completed.

While the museum has been closed to the public during the renovation period, Nyiracyiza encouraged visitors to explore other cultural and historical sites across Uganda. “Our regional museums in Soroti and Kabale will continue serving the public, and visitors are welcome to explore other key cultural sites,” she noted. These sites include the Nyero rock paintings in Kumi, Sir Samuel Baker (Patiko) Fort in Gulu, Bigo Bya Mugyenyi in Sembabule, Kibiro Hot Salt Village and Springs in Hoima, the Emin Pasha Site in Wedelai, and Dolwe Island Rock Paintings, among others.

The closure of the museum has been a necessary step in ensuring the long-term preservation of Uganda’s cultural and natural heritage. During this period, the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) has been working closely with the Department of Museums and Monuments to ensure that the museum continues to serve as a vital educational resource and tourist attraction once it reopens.

Lilly Ajarova, CEO of UTB, emphasized the significance of the Uganda National Museum and the positive impact the renovations will have. “The museum is an essential part of Uganda’s cultural identity, offering educational resources, attracting tourists, and supporting research. This temporary closure has been a critical step to ensure that the museum continues to operate as a premier site for both local and international visitors,” Ajarova stated. She added that the upgrades will make the museum more competitive globally and help solidify its reputation as a hub for cultural preservation.

The Uganda National Museum’s reopening in June 2025 is expected to draw significant attention, as the improved facilities and enhanced visitor experience will position the museum as a must-visit destination. The renovations will not only ensure the museum’s continued role in preserving Uganda’s history but also serve as a platform for showcasing the country’s cultural diversity to a broader audience.

As the museum gears up for its grand reopening, you can consider re-adjusting your itinerary to feature other places in Kampala besides Uganda museum.