Government to Rescue for Ndere Cultural Centre.
By Amos Ssemuwemba
President Yoweri Museveni has intervened to secure a financial bailout for the Ndere Cultural Centre, a renowned institution for preserving Uganda’s cultural heritage, after it faced impending auction due to unpaid loans. The President has directed the Ministry of Finance to commence steps to save the Centre, which had fallen into financial distress, Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, confirmed on Wednesday.
Two weeks ago, Ndere Cultural Centre, located in Kisaasi, Kampala, along with two other properties owned by Ndere’s founder, Stephen Rwangyezi, was listed for auction by Quickway Auctioneers & Court Bailiffs. The auction notice was a result of unpaid loans amounting to Shs7 billion, which Rwangyezi had secured from the Uganda Development Bank (UDB) in 2019.
The loan was intended to diversify Ndere’s ventures and fund several tourism-related projects, including the construction of Obuntu Cuddle Hotel in Wakiso, Obuntu Tourist Lodge in Kisoro, and a cultural museum in Ntungamo. However, delays in construction, changes in project scope, and the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic left the institution unable to repay the debt on time.
“The government has decided to step in and rescue Ndere Cultural Centre,” said Dr. Baryomunsi. “The President has instructed the Ministry of Finance to establish mechanisms for supporting Ndere Centre, as it is a critical institution that plays a significant role in showcasing Uganda’s culture.”
Rwangyezi, who requested government support, cited the pandemic’s devastating impact on tourism and hospitality as a major factor behind the financial difficulties. Despite the challenges, Ndere’s work in promoting Uganda’s cultural diversity remains central to national identity, making its survival a priority for the government.
However, the details of the financial rescue remain unclear, including whether the government will acquire shares in the institution or offer other forms of assistance. Baryomunsi noted that discussions were ongoing but assured that the government is committed to safeguarding Ndere as a vital cultural resource.
While the bailout raises questions about repayment terms and the extent of government involvement, it aligns with Uganda’s approach to supporting struggling private sector entities of national importance. Ndere Cultural Centre, a long-standing promoter of Uganda’s cultural heritage, is regarded as a “strategic asset” that the government is keen to preserve.
