By Diana.N.Kintu
The Government of Uganda has pledged its support for the redevelopment of the historic Muchwa Building in Fort Portal City into a multi-purpose legacy centre, aimed at preserving the cultural heritage of the Tooro Kingdom while promoting youth engagement, tourism, and economic sustainability.
The commitment was made during a meeting at Rwakitura between President Yoweri Museveni and senior officials of the Tooro Kingdom. The delegation was led by the Kingdom’s Prime Minister, Omuhikirwa Calvin Armstrong Rwomire, and included the Deputy Prime Minister alongside ministers responsible for Youth and Tourism.
President Museveni emphasised that the redevelopment project aligns with broader government efforts to protect Uganda’s cultural sites and transform them into productive assets for socio-economic development. “We discussed and agreed that the government will support the redevelopment of the historic Muchwa Building in Fort Portal into a multi-purpose legacy centre to preserve Tooro’s cultural heritage, support youth engagement, promote tourism, and ensure economic sustainability,” the President said in a statement following the meeting.
He further highlighted the critical role cultural institutions play in fostering national unity, identity, and development, particularly among young people. According to the President, integrating cultural heritage with tourism, innovation, and skills development can create employment opportunities and stimulate local economies, benefiting both communities and the nation at large.
Officials from the Tooro Kingdom warmly welcomed the government’s commitment. Prime Minister Rwomire described the Muchwa Building as a key historical landmark, emphasising its importance in the cultural landscape of the region. He thanked President Museveni for recognising the significance of cultural preservation, noting that the proposed legacy centre would act as a hub for cultural exhibitions, youth empowerment programmes, and tourism-related activities in the Tooro sub-region.
“The redevelopment of the Muchwa Building will not only safeguard our heritage but also provide opportunities for young people to engage in creative and innovative endeavours,” Prime Minister Rwomire said. “It will serve as a platform to showcase our rich culture to tourists, scholars, and future generations alike.”
Once fully redeveloped, the Muchwa Building is expected to house cultural exhibition spaces, youth innovation centres, and tourism facilities. This initiative is part of a broader effort to position Fort Portal City as a major cultural and heritage destination in western Uganda.
The project also reflects an ongoing collaboration between the central government and cultural institutions, highlighting a shared commitment to inclusive development while safeguarding Uganda’s rich cultural history. Observers note that initiatives of this nature can contribute significantly to the local economy, attracting both domestic and international tourists and fostering community engagement in heritage preservation.
Cultural experts have welcomed the move, noting that heritage sites such as the Muchwa Building offer immense potential for educational programmes, research, and creative industries. They argue that properly managed cultural infrastructure can serve as a bridge between tradition and modernity, ensuring that cultural knowledge and practices are passed on to younger generations.
The redevelopment of the Muchwa Building represents a milestone for Fort Portal and the wider Tooro region. By combining heritage preservation with practical opportunities for youth engagement and economic growth, the project exemplifies how cultural landmarks can be leveraged as catalysts for sustainable development.