By KT Reporter
The construction of the Dokolo Heritage Centre in Dokolo District has reached 31% completion under the first phase of the project. In February this year, the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities handed over the site in Agubi Cell, Angai Ward, Kangai Town Council, to Rohi Services Ltd at a contract sum of 15 billion shillings.
The historic site is where Omukama Kabalega of Bunyoro and Kabaka Mwanga II of Buganda were arrested by British colonialists in 1899 after years of resistance and refuge in the area. An officer at the site, who preferred not to be named, confirmed that significant progress has been made.
“But by next month, we shall be at 50. The main challenge we have had is bulky backfill that has accumulated most of the time, but the contractor is working around the clock to ensure we overcome this challenge,” he said. Currently, accommodation facilities are at the roofing level, while the main information center (museum) is at the slabbing stage, with wall-supporting pillars already erected.
On Tuesday, Uganda’s High Commissioner to Pretoria, Paul Amoru Omiat, led a delegation of investors, top athletes, and tour operators from South Africa, Pretoria, and Namibia to the site. They were joined by influencers from the United States. Amoru said the visit reflects Uganda’s commitment to promoting tourism globally.
He added that once complete, the Heritage Centre will benefit both the government and the local communities of Kangai Town Council.
Professor Opio Okaka Dokotum, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Lira University, described the project as the government’s effort to preserve Lango history.
The idea of establishing a tourism site at Kangai was first announced in 2021 by then Tourism Minister Ephraim Kamuntu. Earlier in 1972, President Idi Amin visited the area and ordered the construction of two monuments in memory of the captured kings. Since then, the site has largely been managed by the surrounding community.
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