Kabaka's Palace (Lubiri)
Central Uganda Region
Kabaka's Palace, locally called Twekobe, is the official residence of the Kabaka (king) of Buganda, situated within the Lubiri complex in Mengo, Uganda. It serves as the symbolic and administrative heart of the Buganda Kingdom, housing the Nnamulondo, the royal throne. The palace is culturally significant, with the royal mile, Kabaka Anjagala Road, connecting it to Bulange, the Buganda Parliament building. Historically, the palace has witnessed turbulent times, including the 1996 crisis that led to the temporary abolishment of kingship in Uganda, after which it was restored to Buganda in 1997. Twekobe underwent renovations in 1999 to prepare for the Kabaka's wedding and again in 2016 to repair structural elements like the roof. Notably, during the 1970s, part of the palace was used as a torture chamber under Idi Amin's regime, marking a dark chapter in its history. Today, the palace remains a powerful cultural symbol and is under redevelopment efforts to preserve its heritage and expansive 250-acre grounds.
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Astuce: Visitors are advised to visit during daylight hours for the best experience and to respect cultural protocols. Prior arrangements or guided tours may be necessary to access the palace grounds, as it remains a royal residence. It is recommended to check for any official events or ceremonies that might affect visiting hours. Purchasing tickets or arranging visits through official Buganda Kingdom channels can help avoid inconvenience. Visitors should also be mindful of the palace's sensitive history and cultural significance when touring.
Faits intéressants
- •The Nnamulondo, the Kabaka's royal throne, is kept in Twekobe Palace.
- •Kabaka Anjagala Road, meaning 'The Kabaka wants the road,' connects the palace to the Buganda Parliament building, Bulange.
- •During the 1970s, over 26,000 people are believed to have been tortured and killed in the palace's right wing under Idi Amin's regime.
- •The Lubiri (Buganda Palace) was returned to the Buganda Kingdom in 1997 after being confiscated during political turmoil.
Histoire
The palace, known as Twekobe, has been the official residence of the Kabaka of Buganda for centuries, symbolizing the monarchy's authority.
After the 1996 political crisis which abolished kingship in Uganda, the palace was returned to Buganda in 1997.
Renovations in 1999 prepared the palace for the Kabaka's wedding, and further restoration occurred in 2016.
The 1970s saw a grim period when part of the palace was converted into a torture chamber during Idi Amin's regime.
In 2014, a board was formed to oversee redevelopment of the palace and its extensive land.
Guide du lieu
Nnamulondo (Kabaka's Throne)
The sacred royal throne kept within Twekobe Palace, symbolizing the authority and continuity of the Buganda monarchy.
Kabaka Anjagala Road
The historic royal mile stretching from Twekobe Palace to Bulange, the Buganda Parliament building, symbolizing the connection between the monarchy and governance.
Right Wing Torture Chamber1970s
Formerly part of the palace's right wing, used in the 1970s as a torture chamber during Idi Amin's regime, where thousands were reportedly tortured and killed.