Mission report on the destruction by fire of

Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga Tombs of Kings at Kasubi

A World Heritage property of

April 2010

1911 2009 16 March 2010 2012 ?

Mission undertaken by : Lazare Eloundou, Chief of the Africa unit, UNESCO World Heritage Centre, Paris Sébastien Moriset, CRAterre‐ENSAG, Grenoble, France Fumiko Ohinata, Programme specialist for Culture, UNESCO Nairobi office, Kenya Donatius M.K. Kamamba, Advisor to African World Heritage Fund, Tanzania April 2010

UGA020

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Mission report on the destruction by fire of

Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga Tombs of Buganda Kings at Kasubi

A World Heritage property of Uganda

This document is the result of the UNESCO mission undertaken in from 7th to 9th April 2010, which involved the following experts : ‐ Mr Lazare Eloundou (Head of the mission), Chief of Africa Unit, World Heritage Centre; ‐ Mrs Fumiko Ohinata, Programme Specialist for Culture at UNESCO Nairobi Office; ‐ Mr Sebastien Moriset, CRAterre, National Superior School of Architecture of Grenoble (France); ‐ Mr Donatius Kamamba, Director of Antiquities of Tanzania and Advisor to the African World Heritage Fund.

It was prepared by Sébastien Moriset, CRAterre‐ENSAG With inputs by Lazare Eloundou, Fumiko Ohinata, and Donatius M.K. Kamamba

For more information, contact :

UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE CENTRE Lazare Eloundou, Chief of Africa Unit 7 Place de Fontenoy, 75352 Paris 07 SP FRANCE Tel: +33 (0)145 681 938 email : l.eloundou‐[email protected]

UNESCO Nairobi Office Fumiko Ohinata, Programme Specialist for Culture P.O.Box 30592, 00100 GPO ‐ UN Gigiri Complex block C ‐ Nairobi, Kenya Telephone +254 (0)20 762 2655 email : [email protected]

Uganda Museums Rose Nkaale Mwanja, Ag. Commissioner Department of Museums and monuments, Ministry of Tourism, Trade and Industry P.O. Box 5718, Kampala, Uganda Telephone +256 (0)41 232707 email : [email protected]

CRAterre‐ENSAG Sébastien Moriset International centre for earth construction, National Superior School of Architecture of Grenoble BP 2636 38036 GRENOBLE Cedex 2 FRANCE Telephone.: 33 (0) 4 76 69 83 35 email: [email protected]

Donatius M.K. Kamamba Director of the Department of Antiquities and Museums, Tanzania Advisor to the African World Heritage Fund email: [email protected] Tel: +255 (0)22 2116554

Photo credit: All photos in the document by Sébastien Moriset, except where otherwise indicated

3 Acknowledgements

We wish to thank all those who have contributed to the organisation of the activities carried out:

UNESCO The Director General, Irina Bokova, who reacted promptly and mobilised resources for organising the mission

The Government of Uganda Hon. Gabril Opio, Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development Hon. Kirunda Kivejinja, Third Deputy Prime Minister & Minister of Internal Affairs Hon. Geraldine Bitamazire, Minister of Education and Sports Hon. Khiddu Makubuya, Minister of Justice, Constitutional Affairs & Attorney General Hon. Nakadama Isanga Rukia, Minister of State for Gender and Cultural Affairs H.E. Elizabeth Paula Napeyok, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Uganda to France, Deputy Permanent Delegate of Uganda to UNESCO Christine Guwatudde Kintu, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development Kale Kayihura, Inspector General of Police Naumo Juliana Akoryo K, Commissioner Culture & Family Affairs, Ministry of Gender Labour & Social Development

Augustine Omare‐Okurut, Secretary General of Uganda National Commission to UNESCO Simon Peter Musoke, Chief Fire Safety Officer, Uganda Fire Brigade Headquarters Tumutoijere Gabriel Edie, Personal Assistant to Hon. Gabriel Opio Pamela Batenga, Principal Culture Officer, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development Jane Mpagi, Director, Gender and Community Development, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development Nancy Rukundo, officer from the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development Agoi Rosie, Deputy Secretary General, Uganda National Commission for UNESCO

The Buganda Kingdom Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Kimera Mutebi II Oweek. Amb. Emmanuel L Ssendaula, First Deputy Katikkiro/admin. and Minister for Buganda Affairs abroad Owekitiibwa Engineer John Baptist Walusimbi, Katiikiro (Prime Minister) of Buganda Owekitiibwa Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi, Minister for Tourism Owekitiibwa Tonny Kiyimba Kaggwa, Minister of Lands and Public buildings Hajji Kaddu Sserunkuuma, Speaker, Buganda Lukiiko/ Parliament The head of the Royals in the Buganda Kingdom Prince Jamil K. Wasajja James, Kabaka Foundation Architect Jonhatan Nsubuga Architect Joel K. Kateregga Architect E.T. Kiyimba Kamba Ssalongo Mulumba, Katiikiro of the Christopher Kawoya, Senior thatcher, Ngeye clan, Kasubi Royal Tombs The custodians of the Kasubi Tombs site The technical and administrative staff of the Kasubi Tombs site Stephen Mpanga, Kasubi Royal Tombs

The Department of Museums and Monuments, who supervised and administered the project Rose Nkaale Mwanja, Ag. Commissioner, Department of Museums and monuments Nelson Abiti, conservator, Department of Museums and Monuments Remigious Kigongo, assistant conservator, Department of Museums and Monuments Linda Neruba, assistant conservator, Department of Museums and Monuments Sarah Musalizi, Conservator, Museums and Monuments Department

African World Heritage Fund Themba Wakashe, Chairperson of African World Heritage Fund Board of Trustees Webber Ndoro, Director of African World Heritage Fund

Other institutions Theophane Nikyema, UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP representative to Uganda Joanita Nkonge, UNESCO Paris John Makombo, Ugandan Wildlife Authority

The journalists worldwide, for the quality of the press and other media coverage on the Kasubi fire, and for their interest in the reconstruction of the Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga.

4 Contents

1. Background information

1.1. Introduction ...... 6 1.2. The World Heritage site ...... 7 1.3. Living heritage of Kasubi Tombs ...... 9 th 1.4. 16 March Fire ...... 11 1.5. Assessment of museum objects ...... 12

2. Mission results

2.1. Mission activities ...... 13 2.2. Assessment of the situation ...... 19 2.3. Conclusions and recommendations ...... 21 2.3.1. General conclusions ...... 21 2.3.2. Recommendations on world heritage ...... 22 2.3.3. Recommendations on the reconstruction ...... 23 2.3.4. Recommendations on the intangible heritage ...... 25 2.3.5. Recommendations on the management ...... 26 2.3.6. Recommendations on site presentation ...... 27 2.3.7. Recommendations on fire preparedness ...... 28 2.4. Proposed short term action plan ...... 29

3. Appendixes

3.1. Decision taken by the World Heritage Committee at its 25th Session, Helsinki, Finland, December 2001 ...... 30 3.2. List of people met ...... 31 3.3. Mission programme ...... 33 3.4. Letter from Hon. Charles Bakkabulindi, Minister of State for Education and Sports ...... 34 3.5. Letter from Mrs Irina Bokova, Director‐General of UNESCO . 35 3.6. UNESCO recommendations ...... 37 3.7. Press release and selected newspaper articles ...... 38 3.8. Bibliography ...... 48 3.9. Object identification checklist ...... 49 3.10. Archive photographs and drawings ...... 50

5 1. Background information

1.1. Introduction

From 7 to 9 April 2010, UNESCO undertook a mission to Kampala (Uganda) following a letter of the Government of Uganda to the Director General of UNESCO1. In this letter, dated 18 March 2010, the Government informed UNESCO about the fire that on 16 March 2010 had devastated the Muzibu‐ Azaala‐Mpanga building, a major component of the World Heritage property: Tombs of Buganda Kings at Kasubi. The letter also requested UNESCO’s support in mobilizing the international community to assist in the assessment of the damage and the safeguarding of the property’s outstanding universal value.

The UNESCO mission was composed by the following staff members and experts:

‐ Mr Lazare Eloundou (Head of the mission), Chief of Africa Unit, World Heritage Centre; ‐ Mrs Fumiko Ohinata, Programme Specialist for Culture at UNESCO Nairobi Office; ‐ Mr Sebastien Moriset, CRAterre‐ENSAG; ‐ Mr Donatius Kamamba, Director of Antiquities of Tanzania and Advisor to the African World Heritage Fund.

The participation of Mr Kamamba in the mission was made possible by the African World Heritage Centre (a Category 2 Centre under the auspices of UNESCO), which had received an appeal from the Ministry of Trade, Tourism and Industry of Uganda.

The mission’s objective was to assess the extent of the damage, and discuss with the relevant authorities actions to be taken, including a reconstruction of the Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga building. The present document describes the activities undertaken during the mission and presents the results of the assessment as well as some recommendations on the reconstruction strategy.

The team during the mission, at the site (left) and at after meeting the technical committee.

1 See appendix 4, page 34

6 1.2. The World Heritage site

The Kasubi Tombs is the only Ugandan cultural property inscribed on the World Heritage List. The two other Ugandan properties inscribed on the List are natural sites : Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Rwenzori Mountains National Park, both inscribed in 1994.

The site was inscribed in 2001 under four criteria2 (i), (iii), (iv) and (vi). The main values of the site are the strong elements of intangible heritage that are associated to the property. The is a living place where important components of the Ganda culture can be observed and understood. Every part of the site is charged with historical, traditional, and spiritual values. It is one of the rare remaining testimonies of a culture which is gradually disappearing (criteria iii and vi). It is also recognised as a major historical and cultural symbol for Uganda and East Africa as a whole.

Moreover, the site was also seen as a unique surviving example of an architectural style developed by the Buganda kingdom since the 13th Century (criterion i). This was due to the design and spatial organisation of the Palace, but also to the refined architecture and size of the Muzibu‐Azaala‐ Mpanga. The technical skills of the clans developed over centuries to achieve such a masterpiece and the creativity of the craftsmen who continue to maintain the place was also seen as a major value (criterion iv).

The Tombs of Buganda Kings at Kasubi is one of the rare African sites inscribed under criterion (i)3 on the World Heritage List. This is why it is so important to ensure that the architectural values are kept and the skills revived. Only 7 other sites out of the 78 African sites have been inscribed under criterion (i). These are Tsodilo in Botswana, Aksum, Lalibela and Tiya in Ethiopia, The Stone Circles in Gambia and Senegal, uKhahlamba/Drakensberg Park in South Africa and Great Zimbabwe in Zimbabwe.

Associated sites

When the nomination file for Kasubi was under preparation in 2000, the idea of presenting Kasubi and Wamala together as a serial nomination was discussed, but it was decided to present Wamala as a possible extension in the future. This was due to the lack of documentation available on Wamala, but also to its poor state of conservation, which has even deteriorated since then. Ironically, Wamala is now more authentic than Kasubi today. But Wamala and Kasubi are not the only important cultural hills where traditional practices, sacred sites, royal graves and striking architecture can be seen. Most of the countries around Lake Victoria (including Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania) have remaining examples of this type of spatial organisation and architecture. Other sites can be regarded as more authentic in terms of setting, because they are less affected by urban pressure, but none of them buildings can boast the splendour of Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga.

2 See criteria in appendix 1 3 Criteria i : to represent a masterpiece of human creative genius

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Wamala Tombs, 15 km away from Kasubi (images provided by Joanita Nkonge, UNESCO)

Thatched structures at Naggalabi Buddo coronation site, historic heart of Buganda. The building on the left was covered with iron sheets and has lost its authenticity.

Another similar palace complex in Africa : The Rukari Palace in Rwanda. Photos Thierry Joffroy, CRAterre‐ENSAG

8 1.3. Living heritage of the Kasubi Tombs4

The site of the Tombs of Buganda Kings at Kasubi is not only visited by tourists; it is in the first place a living cultural space: Buganda people visit the tombs to pay homage to the ancestors of their king, the ; there they make offerings and perform rituals to appease the spirits of the deceased kings and to ask for protection.

Women, who are considered to be ceremonial relatives or wives of the kings, are present in the main house (Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga) and may lead events that take place there: the four Nalinyas, for instance, are the chief guardians and ceremonial sisters to the deceased Kabakas; the Lubuga represents the King’s mother. Some of their knowledge is kept secret and is passed on orally to the next generation.

The main house has been partitioned with bark cloth curtains concealing the king’s graves from the public and this place is known as the kibira (forest). The people of Buganda believe that the successive kings instead of dying disappeared in a forest where their spirits are for ever present.

The structural rings on the roofs of the Main House, which are made of palm leaf fronds, represent the 52 clans of the Buganda Kingdom, linking every Baganda person to the place. All clans contribute to the maintenance of the site, with each of them having its own duty, for example the Ngeye clan (Colobus monkey) is responsible for the thatching while the Ngo clan (leopard) takes care of the decorations. There is also a group of royal bark cloth makers, for example in Nsangwe, who have traditionally provided bark cloth for the use by the kings and at the site.

Many ceremonial objects were kept within Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga, including a small canon, a stuffed leopard, a collection of spears and regalia, two chairs and a table which were donated by Queen Victoria of England, and a board game. These objects were used in traditional practices associated to the cultural space as a whole.

The nomination file which was prepared for inscribing the property on the World Heritage List, takes note of the significance of the traditions and practices enacted at the Kasubi tombs and of the traditional knowledge associated with the construction and the maintenance (particularly of thatching) of the main house and other structures within the compound.

In addition, the knowledge concerning “Bark cloth making in Uganda”, which was proclaimed a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2005, was incorporated in 2008 in the Representative List under the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. By ratifying that Convention, the Government of Uganda assumed the obligation of identifying, inventorying, safeguarding and promoting the intangible cultural heritage present in its territory. Between 2006 and 2009, the Government of Uganda and UNESCO implemented the project “Revitalization of Bark cloth making”, with financial assistance from Japan.

4 References Neruba, Linda, October 2006. “The intangible significance attached to the captivating beauty of the Kasubi tombs”. Africa 2009 Newsletter, page 17. “Barkcloth making in Uganda”, www.unesco.org/culture/ich/index.php?RL=00139, accessed on 19 April 2010.

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The bark cloth making was proclaimed a masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2005

The 52 rings supporting the roof represent the 52 clans of the Buganda Kingdom, linking every Baganda to the place Photo on the left by Thierry Joffroy, CRAterre‐ENSAG

Christopher Kawoya, the Senior thatcher of the Ngeye clan, who ensures the survival of this unique thatching technique at Kasubi. Photo on the left by Remigious Kigongo, DMM, 2007

10 1.4. 16th March 2010 Fire

The Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga caught fire on 16 March 2010 at about 8h30 pm, apparently from the back of the building according to the site custodians who witnessed the scene. The Police Fire Brigade rushed to the site but could not extinguish the raging fire, as they were hindered by a large crowd. The building was completely destroyed and basically reduced to ashes. Only a few brick walls, concrete pillars and the cement slab remain visible. The steel structure inserted during the 1938 roof reconstruction was also brought down by the extreme heat. Many images and videos of the fire can be seen on the Internet. A DVD about the fire is also available at the souvenir shop at Bulange. Image extracted from the DVD released by the Kabaka’s press unit

Fire has always been considered as a major threat to the thatched structures at Kasubi. It was mentioned both in the 2000‐2008 management plan and in the 2009‐2015 revised version. The old electric wires were particularly threatening, and the new management plan suggested the replacement of the entire wiring system. The threat still exists on Bujjabukula and on Ndoga‐ Obukaba, and should not be underestimated. Fire has already affected other tombs in the Buganda Kingdom, and none of the destroyed tombs have recovered their past glory. They have generally been replaced by cement or brick structures with iron sheet roofs.

Other sites destroyed by fire in Africa In the rest of Africa, many cultural sites have also been destroyed by flames in the recent years. Such examples include the Royal Palaces of Abomey in Benin5 where six thatched buildings were ravaged by a fire on 21st January 2009; these 6 buildings have already been restored. Fire also devastated the Chief palace of Bandjoun in Cameroon in January 2005, destroying hundreds of artefacts and important cultural elements which will never be replaced. Although the Bandjoun palace has been reconstructed, it has not regained its full authenticity. Another famous building lost in flames in November 1995 is the Queen's Palace in Antananarivo, Madagascar. The fire of November 1995 destroyed all the monuments of the Rova and an important collection of artefacts and furniture; restoration of the building is still underway, but the artefacts are lost forever.

Important cultural sites destroyed by fire in Africa. From left to right: Abomey in Bénin (2009), Banjoun Palace in Cameroon (2005), Rove Palace in Madagascar (1995) Bandjoun photo by Lazare Eloundou

5 World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1985

11 1.5. Assessment of museum objects

Many objects were kept within Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga, as shown on the photographs below. This included: - a small canon at the entrance; - a stuffed leopard; - two chairs and a table which were donated by Queen Victoria from England; - a board game; - a collection of spears and regalia.

According to the site custodians, the spears have been saved, but they could not be shown to the mission team. The board game, the leopard and the British furniture have unfortunately been destroyed. One of the recommendations made by the mission was to undertake a complete inventory of the remaining items to ensure their protection (see ID Checklist page 49). The inventory should also cover all other movable objects at the site, such as the sacred drums for example. Concerning the lost stuffed leopard, the Ugandan Wildlife Authority could be approached to assist in finding another one once the tombs will be reconstructed.

The leopard and the spears (photos taken in 2000)

The board game, but also the leopard and Queen Victoria’s The lost board game furniture in the background (Photo by George Abungu)

12 2. Mission results

2.1. Mission activities

DAY 1 : 7th April 2010

Courtesy call to the Honourable Gabriel OPIO, Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development

During the meeting, the mission reiterated the profound sorrow of the Director‐General of UNESCO over the destruction of the Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga. The Minister applauded the quick reaction from UNESCO and thanked the Director‐General for having immediately dispatched a team of experts to assess the damages. He stated that the whole country was expecting this mission and that he was sure it would bring hope for a proper reconstruction of the Buganda Kingdom mausoleum. He also informed the mission on the following actions taken immediately by the Government after the 16 March fire:

. A Cabinet Committee was constituted on 17 March 2010 by President with the purpose to closely work with the Buganda Kingdom on the reconstruction. The members of the Cabinet Committee are: ‐ Hon. Gabriel Opio (Chairman); ‐ Hon Kirunda Kivejinja, 3rd Deputy Prime Minister/Minister of Internal Affairs; ‐ Hon. Syda Bbumba, Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development; ‐ Hon. Dr Edward Khiddu Makubuya, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs/Attorney General; ‐ Hon. Adolf Mwesige, Minister of Local Government; ‐ Hon. Geraldine Bitamazire Namirembe, Minister of Education and Sports; ‐ Hon. Fred Omach, Minister of State, Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development; ‐ Maj. General Kale Kaihura, Inspector General of police; ‐ Mr Augustine Omare Okurut, Secretary General, Uganda National Commission for UNESCO.

. The actions undertaken by the Cabinet include the following: ‐ An investigation on the cause of fire was launched and is led by the Inspector General of Police; ‐ A meeting between the Cabinet Committee and members of the Buganda Kingdom was organized on 19th March 2010. The Kingdom authorities reported that they had created five Committees to respond to the fire incident. These committees are: (i) Mourning committee, responsible for organizing the mourning ceremony; (ii) Technical and Restoration committee, responsible for handling restoration works at the site; (iii) Culture committee, responsible for handling all matters to deal with traditions, beliefs and values during the mourning ceremony and the reconstruction of the Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga; (iv) Finance committee, responsible for mobilizing resources; (v) Coordination committee, responsible for ensuring proper mobilization and coordination of all activities; ‐ Through the Ministry of Education and Sports, a letter was sent on 18 March to the UNESCO Director‐General informing her about the incident and requesting UNESCO’s support to come and assess the damage and guide on remedial actions. The communication was

13 facilitated by the Permanent Delegate of Uganda to UNESCO, Her Exc. Elizabeth Paula Napeyok.

Courtesy call on the Katikkiro (Kingdom Prime Minister) of Buganda Kingdom

The meeting with the Katikkiro was held in the presence of several Ministers and members of the Kingdom Cabinet. After the mission expressed the Director‐General of UNESCO’s profound sorrow over the fire incident and explained the context of UNESCO’s mission in Kampala, the Katikkiro made the following comments: ‐ He appreciated on behalf of the King UNESCO’s quick action by sending a team of experts. He requested the mission to inform the Director‐General that the “Kingdom wants its masterpiece back”; ‐ He informed the mission about the establishment of a Technical and Building Committee which is chaired by the Minister of Lands and Building of the Buganda Kingdom. This Committee was requested to oversee the reconstruction process and to study how associated sites such as Wamala could also be conserved and protected; ‐ He also informed the mission that a mourning ceremony had been organized on 26 March 2010 and that a series of traditional ceremonies had been performed in the tombs. He requested the mission to brief him on the findings and the initial recommendations.

Kasubi Site visit

The mission spent the rest of the afternoon visiting the site to assess the extent of the damage. The mission members were given special authorization to go inside the main building, in spite of the mourning ceremony that had been performed in it, since most of them had known the site before. The site visit was undertaken in the presence of officials from the Ministry of Gender Labour and Social Development and the National Museum of Uganda and of representatives of the Kingdom. The site visit was guided by the Kingdom’s Kasubi site responsible.

Following a detailed inspection and discussions with the site custodians, the mission observed the following: ‐ Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga was completely destroyed by the 16 March 2010 fire. The entire vegetal structure (wooden poles, rings), the thatch, the bark clothes, and part of the royal artefacts as well as other Kingdom symbols had been consumed by the fire; ‐ The steel structure that was introduced in 1938 to support the main house was bent completely due to high temperature and it cannot be re‐used; ‐ The concrete poles, that were introduced in 1938 to support the steel roof structure ,are still standing, but they are cracked and deformed; ‐ The peripheral and partition brick walls of the main house, that were introduced in 1938, are still standing, but some parts are deformed; ‐ After the fire an orange tarpaulin was installed to provide privacy to the royal tombs; in addition, a temporary protection against rain water was put in place over the tombs; ‐ The site custodians wish the main house to be reconstructed urgently because the current situation does not allow full enactment of rituals at the tombs; ‐ Many of the artefacts, which had been kept in the main house, were lost to the fire; ‐ Houses and structures surrounding the main house were not damaged by the fire.

At the end of the site visit the mission was therefore able to conclude that:

‐ The destruction of Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga has caused a traumatism among the Baganda community who has the strong wish to see their mausoleum reconstructed;

14 ‐ The reconstruction of the Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga would allow the Baganda community to maintain its link with its ancestors by performing rituals and practices that are traditionally enacted in that cultural space; in other words, the actions that will be undertaken should assume a holistic approach, taking into account the deep links on this site between tangible heritage, intangible heritage and movable objects; ‐ A reconstruction strategy would need to be agreed by both the Uganda Government and the Buganda Kingdom authorities; ‐ It is important that Uganda, being the State Party, informs and obtains the agreement of the World Heritage Committee for its reconstruction strategy; ‐ Before the commencement of any reconstruction work, a complete and detailed documentation of the situation of the site after the fire incident is to be provided; ‐ The national authorities of Uganda shall be encouraged to submit International Assistance requests on emergency basis under both the World Heritage Convention and the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage ‐ to respond to issues such as the construction of a temporary shelter for the royal tombs and the preparation of a comprehensive strategy for the reconstruction of the main house as a cultural space.

15 DAY 2 : 8th April 2010

Working session with the Department of Museums and Monuments (DMM)

The purpose of the working session was to debrief the Department of Museums and Monuments on the preliminary observations made during the site visit of 7th April, to determine the priority and urgent needs to be included in the Emergency assistance request under the mechanism envisaged by the World Heritage Convention, and to start elaborating an action plan for the reconstruction.

Concerning the preparation of the Emergency assistance request to be submitted to the World Heritage Centre, it was agreed that it would at least include the following:

‐ The reconstruction of a temporary shelter for the royal tombs to allow the continuation and ceremonies and other necessary ceremonies; ‐ The preparation of a technical dossier (architectural survey of the remaining specifications, bill of quantities, cost estimation) to be prepared for the reconstruction works; ‐ A documentation work (Archival constitution, studies on traditional construction practices and all related practices, etc.) which needs to be urgently conducted in order to guarantee an acceptable reconstruction that will not affect the outstanding universal value of the property; ‐ The preparation of a project proposal for an integrated conservation project to be submitted to UNESCO for fundraising; ‐ The purchase of equipments (computer, printing and camera) for the documentation work before and during the reconstruction; ‐ The organization of a National workshop on the reconstruction strategy and on the state of conservation of the property; ‐ An international expert’s mission to assist in the preparation of the integrated project document; ‐ The mounting on site of a temporary exhibition on the Muzubi‐Azaala‐Mpanga which should show pictures of how the building was before the fire.

It was also agreed that a draft action plan will be proposed by the mission and will detail all the activities required before the 34th session of the World Heritage Committee which will take place in Brazil in end‐July 2010.

Meeting with the UN Resident Coordinator

The meeting with the UN Resident Coordinator provided the mission with additional information with regards to the context in which the fire incident occurred. The mission was informed about the current political context and the Presidential elections that will take place in 2011. The Coordinator advised UNESCO to expedite its action in order to meet the expectations of the people of Uganda who wish to see the start of the reconstruction as soon as possible. This is even more important given the possible visit of the UNESCO Director‐General to Kampala in June 2010 during which she would be expected to express her views on the Kasubi Tombs issue.

Debriefing meeting with the Cabinet Committee on the reconstruction of the Kasubi Tombs

The Mission debriefed the members of the Cabinet Committee on the findings and preliminary recommendations (see the chapter on recommendations). In addition, the meeting provided an opportunity to discuss the following issues that emerged during the mission:

16 ‐ The World Heritage Status will be paramount in ensuring a proper reconstruction mission, and the reconstruction should consider the Outstanding Universal Value of the site as it was presented in 2001; ‐ The mission wishes to receive an official report on the fire of 16th March 2010, including descriptions of the sequence of events, of the damage to buildings and other materials, and of the measures taken by both the Government and the Kingdom authorities; ‐ The property’s OUV was seriously threatened after the destruction of Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga and its state of conservation report would have to be examined by the World Heritage Committee at its 34th session in July 2010, which might decide inclusion of the site bon the List of World Heritage in Danger; ‐ The site is still recognised by the Buganda community as a cultural space with profound social and religious meaning; it is, therefore, necessary to define the traditions and practices that can no longer be enacted after the fire. ‐ It is advisable to allow visitors access to the site once the police enquiry is concluded.

The Cabinet committee expressed its readiness to follow the mission recommendations for the reconstruction. It wished that the mission will plead for the property to remain on the World Heritage List. It also approved the suggestion to have the site examined at the 34th session of the World Heritage Committee. It agreed to write a letter to the Director of the World Heritage Centre to request the inscription of the property on the World Heritage List in Danger as a way to mobilize the international community.

Discussion on fire protection with the Chief Fire officer, Uganda Police fire brigade

The second day ended with a brief discussion with the Chief Fire officer. The discussion covered the following topics:

‐ What should be inserted in the reconstructed building to avoid such dramatic event to reoccur? ‐ How can we protect the other thatched structures? ‐ Knowing that fire trucks can not access the site, what could be the most efficient fire fighting strategy?

17 DAY 3 : 9th April 2010

Press conference

A Press conference was organized by the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, in order to brief the Media on the preliminary observations made by the mission. The Press conference was conducted by Hon. Gabriel OPIO himself. The mission provided the Media with the following observations: ‐ The World Heritage site has been seriously threatened with the destruction of a building that was considered as a masterpiece of human creativity; ‐ The Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga should definitely be reconstructed but the reconstruction should be done in due respect of its authenticity at the time of the Kasubi tomb’s inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2001; ‐ A report with a series of recommendations on the reconstruction strategy will be prepared by the mission team and submitted to both UNESCO and the Government of Uganda; ‐ Finally and as already indicated by the Director General of UNESCO, UNESCO will continue to assist Uganda and its people in their efforts to mobilize the international community.

Debriefing meeting with the Katikkiro of the Buganda Kingdom

During the briefing to Katikkiro, the mission provided the same observations made during the debriefing to the Cabinet Committee. The Katikkiro re‐assured the mission that his Technical committee was ready to review the draft action plan that would be proposed by the mission. He also shared the need to see the property examined at the 34th Session of the World Heritage Committee. He stands ready to provide information for ensuring that the necessary prerequisites for the reconstruction, as it would be proposed in the draft action plan.

Meeting with the Kabaka of Buganda

The mission, accompanied by Hon. Gabriel Opio and Hon. Geraldine Namirembe Bitamazire was received by the Kabaka. The King thanked the Director‐General for her swift reaction. He expressed his happiness that the reconstruction initiative had started immediately. He stated during the courtesy call that the Kasubi tombs were a central part of Buganda history and that they should remain under the guardianship of the Buganda kingdom. Furthermore, the King emphasised the significant educational role that the Kasubi tombs can play for the people of the kingdom as well as for visitors in general.

Meeting with the Buganda Technical committee to discuss the way forward

Before leaving Uganda, the mission met with the Buganda technical committee to agree on the important activities to be implemented before the next World Heritage Committee meeting in Brazil. An architect (Jonathan Nsubuga) was appointed by the Technical committee as its representative for all communications between UNESCO and the Buganda technical committee. It was understood that the main tasks of the Technical committee will be to :

‐ Collect data on the tombs, including photographs, drawings and plans made in the past; ‐ Document the site : survey the remains, inventory traditions and practices performed within the site, study traditional practices associated to the construction and the maintenance of the site, inventory the artefacts, source materials for the reconstruction; ‐ Propose a design for the temporary shelters and an estimation of its cost; ‐ Prepare a reconstruction proposal with detailed drawings. The proposal should comprise detailed justification for all technical choices made. It should also comprise a fire prevention strategy.

18 2.2. Assessment of the situation

State of conservation of the site Concerning the destruction of the Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga, the mission concludes that:

 The fire has entirely destroyed Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga. All the thatch, reeds, mats, bark cloth curtains and other vegetal materials have been reduced to ashes;  Only the slab, some reinforced concrete pillars and a few brick walls remain standing, but most of them are seriously deformed and cracked and need to be replaced;  The position of the long wooden poles is still visible on the slab;  The metal structure inserted in 1938 has been deformed by the heat and was lifted out of the building with a crane;  The reed fence around the inner courtyard has been seriously damaged;  The trees all over the site have also suffered serious damage; many branches were cut from the trees during the mourning period;  Many traditions and practices cannot be performed without Muzibu‐Azaala‐ Mpanga;  The tombs are exposed to the elements, particularly to the rain, causing anxiety amongst the Buganda community;  Some artefacts ‐ such as spears and other royal regalia ‐ which had been kept in the main house were apparently rescued and stored in a safe place, but most of them were badly damaged; the leopard and the furniture offered by Queen Victoria are some of the objects lost;  The reed fence around the courtyard has been seriously damaged, as well as the reed curtain on both sides of the entrance, when people climbed the wall to enter the site.

However, the mission also observed positives aspects:  The Museum staff has regularly provided UNESCO with all requested information;  Although the Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga was destroyed, the site has maintained strong spiritual values;  The site is kept clean by sites custodians, showing their commitment towards continuity of practices despite the incident;  Access to Royal tombs is restricted due to their sacredness;  The police has reinforced its presence around the site and has placed barriers;  The staff working at site has not lost motivation and is still keen to contribute to its conservation and management;  The majority of people met at Government level, Kingdom level and in the country is eager to see work starting;  Spears and other regalia have been saved from the fire and stored in a secured and safe place;  The fire has brought the issue of conservation and management of the site values to the forefront;  The public is already donating materials and contributing funds for the reconstruction of the Muzibu‐ Azaala‐Mpanga;  There is no attempt to “modernize” the structure, by replacing the thatch with iron, as it was the case at Naggalabi Buddo for example.

Weaknesses observed  No official report on the current state of conservation of the site was submitted to UNESCO to date;  The Government and the Buganda Kingdom each have their committee(s), but there is as yet no official mechanism to bring them together;  The masterpiece which justified the World Heritage inscription under criteria 1 has been lost; the World Heritage site’s outstanding universal values are therefore seriously threatened, and the site meets the condition to be inscribed on the World Heritage List in danger. This is not a punishment but an opportunity to mobilize the international community for implementing the necessary corrective measures (as of today, thirty sites out of 880 are inscribed on that List).  The extent to which artefacts were lost or damaged, was not yet established;  The adoption of the revised management plan in 2009 had not yet resulted in an improvement of the management of the site

19

Only the slab, the brick walls and the reinforced concrete elements have survived the fire.

What remains from the steel beams inserted in 1938.

The reinforced concrete pillars still standing.

Trees all over the site have suffered. Hundreds of branches have been removed and some trees are missing. The 2 images on the left are extracted from the DVD released by the Kabaka’s press unit

The reed fence and the roof of Bujjabukula have also been damaged when the crowd climbed the wall.

20 2.3. Conclusions and recommendations

2.3.1 General conclusions

It is the view of the mission team that:

Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga should be reconstructed

The swift response by UNESCO was really appreciated by all stakeholders. There is a general agreement on the fact that Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga needs to be reconstructed. All stakeholders met advocated the idea that the use of traditional techniques should be paramount in the restoration of the traditional image of the building. There is no attempt to “modernize” or “improve” the architecture, as it was done at other Ganda sites in the past. Although pressure is great from the general public to see the place reconstructed as soon as possible, all decision makers and technicians understand that an over hastened reconstruction would be detrimental, because of the complexity of the structure, the intangible components associated and the shortage in traditional skilled labour. It was fully understood that reconstruction without proper studies can bring non‐reversible changes, and might impair the remaining outstanding universal value which justified the inscription of the site in the World Heritage List.

The fire incident has provided an opportunity to better conserve the site values

The loss of Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga is a tragic event for the Baganda community first, but also for humanity as a whole, as proved by the international media coverage of the event (see newspaper articles in the appendixes). This site which attracted thousands of visitors every year has gained even more respect after its destruction. Never the Tombs of Buganda kings at Kasubi site were so well known and valued as today. People have realised how important this site is, not only as an architectural masterpiece, but as the main symbol of the Buganda kingdom, which played an important role in the history of the region. This unexpected and unfortunate situation should be seen as an opportunity to implement strong protection and management measures that will ensure the conservation of the site values on the long term, and transmission to the younger generation.

All the site values must be conserved and safeguarded

Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga should not be the only focus for the next two years. The Tombs of Buganda kings at Kasubi site is a rich place, which illustrates many facets of the Ganda culture. Conserving the site means conserving the whole site of 26.8 hectares, and controlling the development activities within the buffer zone.. Conserving the site also means ensuring the viability of the activities and ceremonies – including the use of artefacts – that keep the place meaningful to the communities to which this cultural space belongs. In other words, efforts at the national and international levels aimed at reversing the effects of the fire should have a holistic approach that takes into account all aspects of the site.

21 2.3.2. Recommendations on world heritage

It is the view of the mission team that:

 The World Heritage status should guide the reconstruction process, and therefore, a reconstruction strategy should be submitted for approval by the World Heritage Committee at its 34th Session in Brasilia, 25th July ‐ 3rd August 2010.

 An international assistance request should be submitted to UNESCO World Heritage Centre in order to allow implementation of the following urgent activities : - Professional sifting of the wreckage ; - Construction of temporary shelters on the royal tombs to allow ritual ceremonies and practices to be maintained; - Mounting of a temporary exhibition to present Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga as it was before the fire incident; - National sensitization workshop on the reconstruction process and the implementation of the management plan; - Purchase of equipment required to ensure a proper documentation of the reconstruction process; - Preparation of an overall conservation project document to be submitted to donors including cost of international expertise to advise on its setting out and reconstruction strategy; - Reprinting a revised version of the 2006 booklet on Kasubi tombs with 2 pages on the fire incident included;

 The reconstruction process should serve to train more thatchers, who will also be able to maintain other Ganda thatched sites;

 The site should be reopened to the public in order to keep life at the site and allow people to continue learning about the other values of the World Heritage property;

 Before reconstruction starts, the reed fence on both sides of the entrance and around the courtyard should be restored. The roof of Bujjabukula should also be repaired;

 Intangible heritage and artefacts which were saved from the fire should be inventoried and restored if damaged. The artefacts should be presented in the temporary exhibition;

 Given the shared responsibilities in the management of the site between the Buganda Kingdom and the Government, all stakeholders will have to work together and share responsibilities during the reconstruction process.

22 2.3.3. Recommendations on the reconstruction

The reconstruction of Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga will have to be done with due respect to what constituted its authenticity and characteristic as defined in 2001 at the time of the inscription of the Tombs of the Buganda kings; therefore:

 A complete documentation should be produced before the start of the works which should include: - Architectural survey of the wreckage; - Study on the traditional construction techniques and their associated intangible values (ceremonies and practices performed before, during and after construction) - Identification of skilled people : the role of the traditional thatchers, weavers, decorators, and other craftsmen should be reinforced; - Sourcing materials (where and how are they traditionally sourced); - Compilation of existing archives (plans, drawings and photographs);  The reconstruction should take into account and respect the Outstanding Universal Value which brought the site on the World Heritage List: - The technology system of the building should be preserved as principle of reconstruction. Therefore the same materials should be kept, should they be traditional or modern from the 1938 construction; - The original construction details and measurement should be respected.  Any proposed modification as compare to the 1938 structure should be fully justified and submitted to UNESCO for World Heritage approval.  A detailed conservation project should be prepared and submitted for approval to UNESCO World Heritage Centre and ICOMOS (for consideration by the World Heritage Committee) before any action is undertaken.  The roof should be brought back, as much as possible, to its 1911 shape (see archive photographs at the end of the report – which shows a sharply conical intended form which, with time, became rounded in shape);  A detailed action plan, which a draft has been prepared by the mission team, should be attached to the overall conservation project;  The overall cost of the conservation should be estimated (cost of the main structure, cost of the roof, cost of the internal finishes, management, etc…);  A fire fighting prevention and protection system needs to be put in place at the site as part of the reconstruction project;  Documentation will be required during the entire process, which shall result in the production of a final report comprising : - Description of the reconstruction process; - All drawings; - Photographs of all the stages of the reconstruction; - Quantities of materials purchased and used; - labour and skills trained and employed; - Difficulties encountered; - Etc…  The final report shall serve as a model for future conservation activities, not only in Uganda but in the whole of Africa.

23

The 1911 archive photograph 6 Thatched structures showing similar steep roofs in Uganda (Naggalabi Buddo and Wamala)

The above photomontage shows how Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga could look like if the shape observed on the 1911 archive photograph was restored

6 The 1911 photograph was taken from the following book : Roscoe J., (reverend) The Baganda. An Account of their Native Customs and Beliefs. UK, London, Macmillan & Co. 1911.

24 2.3.4. Recommendations on the intangible heritage

The mission encourages the Government of Uganda, in close cooperation with the Kingdom of Buganda, to submit a request (emergency) for international assistance to the Intergovernmental Committee under the 2003 Convention in order to:

 Dress up an inventory of traditions and practices associated to the Kasubi Tombs, to be incorporated in the national inventory that is under preparation in the sense of the 2003 Convention;  Ensure the continuation of the enactment of traditions and practices, in ways that the practitioners and tradition bearers deem appropriate, while the main house will be reconstructed;  Build a temporary shelter to protect the tombs currently exposed to the elements within the main house, to safeguard their content and to allow visitors to worship the ancestors when the main house will have been reconstructed;  Request UNESCO to send an expert mission to assess the damage caused to the objects (many of which are for ceremonial use) which were kept within the main house;  Ensure long‐term conservation of movable objects rescued from the main house at the Kasubi Tombs and other objects kept in other structures, by creating an inventory using the Object Check ID list7  Restore objects as necessary and have lost objects replaced to the extent possible (for example, the Uganda Wildlife Authority might find another leopard); during the reconstruction period some of the rescued artefacts might be presented in a temporary exhibition;  Undertake awareness raising activities to inform the general public, especially young people, about the importance of traditions and practices associated to the Kasubi Tombs;

All activities concerning the safeguarding of intangible heritage elements associated with the Kasubi Tombs shall take place with full involvement of the tradition bearers concerned and respect their opinions, particularly as regards the access to their knowledge and practices related to the Tombs, in accordance with Articles 13 d) (ii) and 15 of the 2003 Convention.

7 Fore more information on the Object ID Checklist see http://icom.museum/objectid/checklist/english.pdf

25 2.3.5. Recommendations on the management

Even if it is agreed that Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga needs to be reconstructed, the management plan completed in September 2009 thanks to the involvement of more than 40 stakeholders and the financial support of the AFRICA 2009 programme, needs to be carefully implemented. It comprises a series of activities with clear responsibilities for the next 5 years. The activities fall under four main objectives:  Improve on the management practices  Conserve the World Heritage Value  Preserve the Intangible heritage  Enhance the visitor’s experience

The mission recommends the Government and the Buganda Kingdom to establish a close coordination mechanism.

Moreover, a more effective long term management strategy should urgently be set in place to ensure improved transparency in the revenue generation and more efficiency in the implementation of conservation activities. The new management should also reinforce the role of the clans in charge of daily maintenance, and reduce the observed difference in the treatment of the administrative and the technical staff.

Electronic copies of the management plan can be obtained from the following institutions:

Department of Museums and Monuments, Kampala : Nelson Abiti : ...... [email protected] Remigious Kigongo : ...... [email protected]

CRAterre‐ENSAG, Grenoble, France : Sebastien Moriset:...... [email protected]

26 2.3.6. Recommendations on site presentation

Fence and trees Signs of the huge crowds which rushed to the site after the fire are still visible. The reed fence is ruined, trees and branches have been cut during the mourning period. This gives a very poor image to the site. It is therefore recommended that trees be replanted both on the outer fence (more than 200 missing), and around the main courtyard. The significance that the site has regained with the fire should be used to reclaim the encroached land. It is the opinion of the mission that this interest for the Kasubi hill will not last for ever, and that there is a risk to see land pressure increasing around the site if appropriate measures are not taken. Replanting the fence and eventually installing a temporary wire fence in the most sensitive areas could help to ensure that the site boundaries are better respected in the future.

Exhibitions Once the reed fence is rebuild, a temporary exhibition should be installed at the site to present how Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga looked like before the 16th March 2010 fire. The exhibition could comprise both open air elements (discrete signs showing photographs of Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga before it burnt), and an in‐door exhibition. The indoor exhibition can be set up within the interpretation centre. This exhibition could comprise a model that could be made by the Department of Architecture of the University.

Example of signs which could be placed at the site

The mission also encourages the mounting of an exhibition within the “interpretation centre”. There is an opportunity to revamp this building which was built during the CHOGM Conference and which the mission does not recommend keeping its current architecture. Its visual impact on the courtyard should definitely be reduced as it affects the site’s Outstanding Universal Value. But in the meantime, it can house a temporary exhibition presenting:

- Pictures and information on the lost Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga; - Information on the reconstruction project; - a scale 1:20 model of the Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga; - the history of the site and Kingdom; - the intangible values of the place.

Interpretation centre

27 2.3.7. Recommendations on Fire preparedness

These recommendations should be considered as preliminary since they are based on consultations with the Chief fire officer during the mission and discussions previously held during the management planning process of 2008‐2009.

It is recommended that:

 The reconstruction project integrates both a fire prevention system and a fire fighting strategy;  The Chief fire officer will have to be involved and consulted in the process;  Smoke detectors and water sprinklers should be integrated in a discrete manner;  If a hidden structure is necessary (to be justified), it shouldn’t be made of steel alone, as steel starts deforming at around 500°C;  A fire point at the site is necessary, since access for fire trucks is too risky (traffic, crowd);  The fire point should not be placed more than 100 meters away from the buildings for more efficiency;  A water reservoir will need to be installed at the site;  A fire pump will also be necessary to pressurize the water from the reservoir;  The ground staff needs to be trained on how to react in case a building catches fire;  The entire wiring system has to be changed in the two remaining thatched huts (Ndoga‐ Obukaba and Bujjabukula. The incandescent bulbs also need to be replaced with fluorescent bulbs to avoid excessive heat near the thatch.

Incandescent bulb and old electric wires in Bujjabukula, a threat for the roof 

28 2.4. Proposed short term action plan

- Clarification of roles between the various committees - Submission of an official report by the State Party to UNESCO on what happened at Kasubi - Release of the UNESCO mission report - Duplication and wide distribution of the UNESCO report to all stakeholders who shall play a role in the reconstruction, including site technicians - Preparation of an International assistance request under the World Heritage Convention for the reconstruction of Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga May - Preparation of an International assistance request under the 2003 Convention for the safeguarding of practices and traditions associated to the site - Inventorying of available archives - Documentation of the site where needed (survey of the remains, thatching, skills, source of materials, inventory of artefacts…) - Preparation of the reconstruction strategy with all experts available, especially traditional thatchers and museum staff involved in recent repairs at Kasubi - Preparation of the changes in the management system - Reconstruction strategy finalised - Final drawings ready - Estimation of the reconstruction cost by the Buganda technical team June - Proposal for restoring and reinforcing the fence ready - Reconstruction of the reed fence and stage - New management system in place - WORLD HERITAGE COMMITTEE meets end of July in Brazil 2010 - Inscription of the site on the List of World Heritage in Danger every

- Approval and recommendations on the proposed reconstruction strategy by WH Committee at - Dismantling of the weak elements within Muzibu‐Azaala‐Mpanga July - Beginning of the construction of the scale 1:20 model - Approval of the International Assistance request under the 2003 Convention process - Mission to assess the damage caused to objects

- Fundraising by UNESCO the

- Implementation of temporary protections on the tombs of August - Design of the temporary exhibition and design of the signboards - Inventorying of traditions and practices associated to the Kasubi Tombs

- Beginning of the reconstruction of the structure - Installation of the signboards Plan September - Installation of a temporary exhibition and possible replacement of lost objects - Awareness raising activities to inform the general public about the living heritage

associated to the Kasubi Tombs documentatiopn - ICOMOS mission October - Purchase of long wooden poles and other natural materials for the reconstruction - Structure reconstructed

November Management - Work on the surrounding drainage before the thatching starts December - UNESCO project document ready Complete

January - Work on the thatched roof 2015 ‐ February - Work on the thatched roof - Work on the thatched roof 2009

March - National workshop on Kasubi and related Ganda sites

- Work on the thatched roof the

April -

Work on a new design proposal for the interpretation centre of May - Work on the internal finishes - Work on the internal finishes June - Preparation of a report on the progress from March 2009 to May 2010 - Work on the internal finishes July - WORLD HERITAGE COMMITTEE meets 2011 - Presentation of a report on the situation (conservation and management) - Modification of the Interpretation centre Implementation August - Installation of the security system - Training of the management staff on fire fighting September - Completion of the works (installation of mats and objects) October - Completion of the works (installation of mats and objects) November - Preparation of the final report December

29 3. Appendixes

3.1. Decision taken by the World Heritage Committee at its 25th Session, Helsinki, Finland, December 2001 (decision 25COM XA)

Property Tombs of Buganda Kings at Kasubi Id. N° 1022 State Party Uganda Criteria C (i) (iii) (iv) (vi)

The Committee inscribed the Tombs of Buganda Kings at Kasubi site on the World Heritage List under criteria (i), (iii), (iv), and (vi):

Criterion (i): The Kasubi Tombs site is a masterpiece of human creativity both in its conception and in its execution.

Criterion (iii): The Kasubi Tombs site bears eloquent witness to the living cultural traditions of the Baganda.

Criterion (iv): The spatial organization of the Kasubi Tombs site represents the best extant example of a Baganda palace/architectural ensemble. Built in the finest traditions of Ganda architecture and palace design, it reflects technical achievements developed over many centuries.

Criterion (vi): The built and natural elements of the Kasubi Tombs site are charged with historical, traditional, and spiritual values. It is a major spiritual centre for the Baganda and is the most active religious place in the kingdom. The Committee noted that the site combines the historical and spiritual values of a nation.

Statement of Significance (Extracted from ICOMOS evaluation of 20 June 2000)

The most important value associated with the Kasubi Tombs site are the strong elements of intangible heritage. The built and natural elements of the site, which is an outstanding example of traditional Ganda architecture and palace design, are charged with historical, traditional, and spiritual values. The site is regarded as the major spiritual centre for the Baganda. It also serves as an important historical and cultural symbol for Uganda and East Africa as a whole.

30 3.2. List of people met

List of people met during the various meetings and visits undertaken during the mission (the lists might not always be exhaustive)

1. Courtesy call to Hon. Gabriel Opio  Gabriel Opio, Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development  Jane Mpagi, Director, Gender and Community Development  Rosie Agoi, Deputy Secretary General, Uganda National Commission for UNESCO  Pamela Batenga, Principal Culture Officer, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development

2. Courtesy call to the Katiikiro of Buganda  Owekitiibwa Engineer John Baptist Walusimbi, Katiikiro (Prime Minister) of Buganda  Ambassador Emmanuel L. Ssendaula, 1st Deputy Katiikiro in charge of administration and Minister of Buganda Affairs abroad  Hajji Kaddu Sserunkuuma, Speaker, Buganda Lukiiko/ Parliament  Owekitiibwa Tonny Kiyimba Kaggwa, Minister of Lands and Public buildings  Owekitiibwa Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi, Minister of State for Tourism  Architect Joel Kateregga  Architect Jonathan Nsubuga  Jane Mpagi, Director, Gender and Community Development, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Dpt.  Rosie Agoi, Deputy Secretary General, Uganda National Commission for UNESCO  Pamela Batenga, Principal Culture Officer, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development

3. Site Visit to Kasubi  Rose Mwanja Nkaale, Ag Commissioner, Museums and Monuments Department  Remigious Kigongo, Assistant Conservator, Museums and Monuments Department  Ssalongo Mulumba, Katiikiro of the Kasubi Tombs  Stephen Mpanga, Kasubi Royal Tombs  Christopher Kawoya, Senior Thatcher, Kasubi Royal Tombs  The site custodians and staff, Kasubi Royal Tombs  Rosie Agoi, Deputy Secretary General, Uganda National Commission for UNESCO  Pamela Batenga, Principal Culture Officer, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development

4. Working session with Department of Museums and Monuments  Rosie Agoi, Deputy Secretary General, Uganda National Commission for UNESCO  Pamela Batenga, Principal Culture Officer, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development  Rose Mwanja Nkaale, Ag Commissioner, Museums and Monuments Department  Remigious Kigongo, Assistant Conservator, Museums and Monuments Department  Nelson Abiti, Conservator, Museums and Monuments Department

5. Meeting with the Cabinet Committee for the reconstruction of Kasubi Tombs  Hon. Gabriel Opio, Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development / Chairperson of the Cabinet Committee  Hon. Kirunda Kivejinja, Third Deputy Prime Minister &Minister of Internal Affairs  Hon. Khiddu Makubuya, Minister of Justice, Constitutional Affairs & Attorney General  Hon. Geraldine Bitamazire, Minister of Education and Sports  Hon. Nakadama Isanga Rukia, Minister of State for Gender and Cultural Affairs  Kale Kayihura, Inspector General of Police

31  Rosie Agoi, Deputy Secretary General, Uganda National Commission of UNESCO  Christine Guwatudde Kintu, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Dvt.  Jane Mpagi, Director, Gender and Community Development, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Dpt.  Pamela Batenga, Principal Culture Officer, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development  Nancy Rukundo, officer from the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development  Tumutoijere Gabriel Edie, Personal Assistant to Hon. Gabriel Opio  Simon Peter Musoke, Chief of Fire Brigade.

6. Debriefing the Katiikiro of Buganda  Owekitiibwa Engineer John Baptist Walusimbi, Katiikiro (Prime Minister) of Buganda  Ambassador Emmanuel L. Ssendaula, 1st Deputy Katiikiro in charge of administration and Minister of Buganda Affairs abroad  Head of the Royals in Buganda Kingdom ( Did not pick the name)  Owekitiibwa Tonny Kiyimba Kaggwa, Minister of Lands and Public buildings  Owekitiibwa Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi, Minister of State for Tourism  Architect Joel Kateregga  Architect Jonathan Nsubuga  Jane Mpagi, Director, Gender and Community Development, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Dpt.  Rosie Agoi, Deputy Secretary General, Uganda National Commission for UNESCO  Pamela Batenga, Principal Culture Officer, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development  Rose Mwanja Nkaale, Ag Commissioner, Museums and Monuments Department  Remigious Kigongo, Assistant Conservator, Museums and Monuments Department  Sarah Musalizi, Conservator, , Museums and Monuments Department

7. Meeting with the Kabaka of Buganda  The Kabaka of Buganda, HM Ronald Muwenda Mutebi  Ambassador Emmanuel L. Ssendaula, 1st Deputy Katiikiro in charge of administration and Minister of Buganda Affairs abroad  Hon. Gabriel Opio, Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development / Chairperson of the Cabinet Committee  Hon. Geraldine Bitamazire, Minister of Education and Sports  Christine Guwatudde Kintu, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Dvt.  Jane Mpagi, Director, Gender and Community Development, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Dpt.  Pamela Batenga, Principal Culture Officer, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development  Rosie Agoi, Deputy Secretary General, Uganda National Commission for UNESCO  Rose Mwanja Nkaale, Ag Commissioner, Museums and Monuments Department  Remigious Kigongo, Assistant Conservator, Museums and Monuments Department  Sarah Musalizi, Conservator, , Museums and Monuments Department  Nelson Abiti, Conservator, Museums and Monuments Department

8. Meeting with the Technical Committee of Buganda Kingdom  Owekitiibwa Tonny Kiyimba Kaggwa, Minister of Lands and Public buildings  Owekitiibwa Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi, Minister of State for Tourism  Architect Joel Kateregga  Architect Jonathan Nsubuga  Prince Jamil K. Wasajja, Lecturer, Department of English,  Rosie Agoi, Deputy Secretary General, Uganda National Commission for UNESCO  Pamela Batenga, Principal Culture Officer, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development

32 3.3. Mission programme

Activity Venue Tuesday, 6th April, 2010 1. Arrivals of the Mission Team members Airport Wednesday 7th April 2010 Courtesy call on Hon. Gabriel Opio, Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development and Hon. Rukia Nakadama, Minister of State for Gender and Cultural Affairs Minister’s 2. Meeting attended by the Director, Gender and Community Development, Boardroom Commissioner, Culture and Family Affairs, Uganda National Commission for UNESCO Courtesy call on the Katiikiro of Buganda, Owek. JB Walusimbi To be attended by a technical Team from Buganda Government, 3. Bulange Ministries of Trade, Tourism and Industry and Gender, Labour and Social Development and UNESCO national commission Site visit to the Kasubi Tombs Officials from Buganda Government, Ministries of Gender, Labour and Kasubi World Heritage 4. Social Development Trade Tourism and Industry, Uganda National Site Commission for UNESCO Thursday 8th April , 2010 Debriefing by the Mission to technical officers from Buganda Government, 5. Ministries of Gender, Labour and Social Development Trade Tourism and Ministry Boardroom Industry, Uganda National Commission for UNESCO Meeting with officials at the French Embassy, which has sponsored 6. French Embassy promotional products for the Kasubi Tombs site in 2006

7. Working sessions with Department of Museums and Monuments

8. Meeting with Resident Coordinator, UNDP, Kampala UNDP office

9. Meeting with the Cabinet Committee Ministry Boardroom

Friday 9th April 2010 10. Press Conference Uganda Media Centre

11. Debriefing with the Katiikiro of Buganda Bulange

12. Meeting with the Kabaka of Buganda Banda Palace

13. Meeting with the Technical Committee of the Buganda Kingdom Bulange

14. Return of the Mission Team Entebbe Airport

This programme was implemented under the supervision of Pamela Batenga, Principal Culture Officer, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development.

33 3.4. Letter from Hon. Charles Bakkabulindi, Minister of State for Education and Sports

34 3.5. Letter from Mrs Irina Bokova, Director‐General of UNESCO

35

36 3.6. UNESCO recommendations

37 3.7. Press release and selected newspaper articles

In addition to the Ugandan press coverage, an incredible number of articles were published worldwide in newspapers and websites after the 16th of March fire, in all languages. TV reports (CNN, TV5, BBC, El Mundo, NHK…) were also shown all over the world. This confirms the importance of the site for humanity as a whole. A selection of foreign articles is inserted in the pages below:

http://www.asahi.com/international/update/0318/TKY201003180215.html

38 Asahi shinbun newspaper, Japan, 18th March 2010

39 http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/8571719.stm

40 http://www.elmundo.es/elmundo/2010/03/17/cultura/1268830198.html

41 http://news.a42.ru/news/item/184205

42 http://www.hln.be/hln/nl/960/Buitenland/article/detail/1081206/2010/03/17/Oegandese‐Kasubi‐ graftombes‐vernietigd‐door‐brand.dhtml

43 http://www.africa1.com/spip.php?article2449

44 http://www.estadao.com.br/noticias/vidae,incendio‐destroi‐mausoleu‐de‐150‐anos‐protegido‐pela‐ unesco‐em‐uganda,525516,0.htm

45 http://www.nuovasocieta.it/esteri/4946‐tensioni‐in‐uganda‐bruciano‐le‐tombe‐dei‐re.html

46 http://liportalblogs.inwent.org/uganda/2010/03/19/kasubi‐thombs‐abgebrannt/

47 3.8. Bibliography

Management Plan

- Group Work (contributions by 40 stakeholders), Kasubi Royal Tombs, 2009‐2015 Management Plan. Buganda Kingdom and Department of Museums, Kampala, 2009.

Reports - Moriset S., Kamuhangire E., Nagenda‐Musana A., Research on thatch, Kasubi Tombs, progress report, CRAterre‐ENSAG, Grenoble, France, 2006. - Moriset S. Kasubi Tombs, Uganda. Mission Report 2 ‐ 19 December 1998. CRAterre – EAG. Grenoble, France, 1998.

Books / articles

- Kigongo M. R., Reid A., Local communities, politics and the management of the Kasubi Tombs, Uganda. In World Archaeology volume 39 No.3, Oxford, UK, 2007. - Joffroy T., Moriset S., Dixey L., Sembuya M., Kamuhangire E., Kigongo R., Uganda‐Kampala Kasubi Tombs, French Embassy in Uganda, Africa 2009, CRAterre‐ENSAG edition, Kampala, 2006. - Kigongo M. R. Kasubi Tombs. Uganda, Kampala, R.M.K. 1991. - Mturi A. The Conservation of the African Heritage, part I. In: Monumentum. vol. 27. n. 3. p. 181‐ 196. UK, York, University of York, Institute of Advanced Architectural Studies, 1984. - Mturi A. The Conservation of the African Heritage, part II. In: Monumentum. vol. 27. n. 1. p. 275‐ 284. UK, York, University of York, Institute of Advanced Architectural Studies, 1984. - Denyer S. African Traditional Architecture : an Historical and Geographical Perspective. USA, New York, Africana Publishing Company, 1978. - Oliver P. Shelter, Sign & Symbol. USA, New York, The Overlook Press, 1977. - The Ancient Palaces of Buganda, The Vernacular Architecture of Uganda, vol. 1, part 1. Uganda, Kampala, The Overlook Press, 1977. - Oliver P. Shelter in Africa. UK, London, Barrie & Jenkins, 1971. - Semakula K. History of Buganda. UK, London, Longman 1971.

Web sites - Kabaka Foundation web site ...... www.kasubitombs.org - UNESCO World Heritage centre Web Site...... www.whc.unesco.org - Uganda Tourism Board ...... www.visituganda.com - Uganda Community Tourism Association ...... www.ucota.or.ug - Heritage Trails Uganda ...... www.culturalheritagetrails.com

48 3.9. Object identification checklist (prepared by ICOM : International Council of Museums)

49 3.10. Archive photographs and drawings

Survey by MUK, Assumpta Nagenda‐Musana and Doreen Twebaza, 1999 / Coloured version : Arnaud Misse, CRAterre‐ENSAG

50

Source : Department of Musums and Monuments archives 51

Source : Department of Musums and Monuments archives 52

Source : Department of Musums and Monuments archives 53 Source : CyArk Website

54 Source : CyArk Website

55

q

Source : Department of Musums and Monuments archives, 1911 56

Source : Department of Musums and Monuments archives

57 58 Both photographs by Thierry Joffroy, CRAterre‐ENSAG

59

60 61 Muteesa I receiving British explorers John Hanning Speke and James Grant Source : Department of Musums and Monuments archives

62

63