The Government of Uganda has announced that this year’s International Museum Day (IMD) celebrations will take place in Jinja on May 18, 2026, with officials highlighting the role of museums in promoting unity, cultural preservation, and economic development.Speaking at a media briefing in Kampala, the State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Martine Mugarra, said the 2026 event will be guided by both global and national priorities aimed at strengthening social cohesion.“This year’s theme, ‘Museums: Uniting a Divided World,’ reflects our belief that culture is a powerful tool for bringing people together,” Mugarra said. “Through museums, we are creating spaces for dialogue, preserving our shared heritage, and fostering unity across communities.”The national theme, “Museums as Bridges of Unity and Shared Heritage,” underscores Uganda’s commitment to leveraging cultural institutions as platforms for reconciliation, inclusion, and sustainable development.State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Martine Mugarra making remarksHe further revealed that this year’s celebrations are aligned with key Sustainable Development Goals, including promoting sustainable tourism, fostering peaceful societies, and strengthening global partnerships. It should be noted that Uganda recently intensified collaboration with museums in Europe and Africa, resulting in the repatriation of several historical artifacts.Mugarra emphasized the significance of these efforts, noting that returning cultural property is essential for restoring national identity. “The repatriation of our artifacts is not just about history, it is about reclaiming our story and ensuring future generations understand where they come from,” she said.Allan Kasujja, the Uganda Media Center Executive Director with some of the Tourism beauty queens Among the returned items are collections from institutions in the United Kingdom, Kenya, and the Netherlands. Authorities revealed that some of the artifacts, which have been abroad for more than five decades, will be unveiled to the public during the IMD celebrations in Jinja.Tourism remains a central pillar of Uganda’s economic strategy. The ministry reported that in 2024, the sector generated approximately $1.3 billion (about UGX 5 trillion) and created over 800,000 jobs. Officials say cultural tourism driven by museums and heritage sites will continue to play a key role in economic growth and poverty reduction.A series of activities has been scheduled ahead of the main celebration, including a national cultural heritage conference, a heritage marathon in Kampala, school quiz competitions in Jinja, and community outreach programs. The main event on May 18 will feature a ceremonial march from the Uganda Railway Museum to Jinja Rugby Grounds.The ministry has called on the public to participate in the celebrations and engage with Uganda’s cultural heritage as the country continues to promote unity through its history and shared values.The post Jinja to Host Uganda’s 2026 International Museum Day Celebrations appeared first on The Insider.