Ugandan artifacts looted by colonialists returned from UK

By Hamza Kyeyune

KAMPALA, Uganda (AA) - Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni on Monday received culturally significant artifacts from Cambridge University as Uganda joins other African nations in reclaiming its cultural legacy.

The artifacts were looted from Uganda by colonialists over a century ago during colonial rule and were housed at Cambridge University's Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology for over a century.

Museveni described the artifacts as a poignant reminder of the country’s rich cultural heritage that has long resided abroad.

According to Uganda’s Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, the invaluable pieces were eagerly awaited since negotiations for their return began in 2019.

“These artifacts, taken by British colonial administrators, missionaries, anthropologists, and soldiers during the 1890s and early 1900s, hold immense historical importance for Uganda and its people,” said the ministry.

“As Uganda welcomes back these artifacts with open arms, the nation embraces a renewed sense of pride in its heritage and looks forward to the positive impact this return will have on cultural preservation and historical remembrance” it concluded.

Calls are increasing across Africa for the return of heritage items stolen during colonial times.