Explore Igongo Cultural Center the heritage hub for the Ankole culture in western Uganda. It is an unforgettable experience and an ideal destination for cultural enthusiasts. Igongo is a typical en route stopover for many visitors travelling to western Uganda. The center is an ideal destination for anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of Uganda, most especially Ankole.
How To Access Igongo Cultural Center:
Igongo Cultural Center is located in Igongo, Mbarara district, 12 kilometers from Mbarara. You can access the Center either by road or air. From Kampala, drive to Igongo via the Masaka-Mbarara highway for about 4 hours. You can travel by public transport or hire a private car. By air, travellers can fly to Mbarara Airstrip from where you’ll drive to Igongo Cultural Center.
Explore Igongo Cultural Center’s Main Aspects/Sectors:
1) Eriijukiro Museum of Southwestern Uganda
The museum showcases the cultural heritage of the South western people, specifically the Ankole. It is a home to notable exhibits such as royal regalia, traditional milk gourds, historical artifacts, royal drums, spears, historical photographs and so much more. It is a major tourist attraction and the highlight of Igongo.
2) Nkwanzi Craft Shop and bookstore
The Nkwanzi Craft Shop and Bookstore is an ideal place for souvenir shopping. Travelers get an amazing opportunity to purchase souvenirs from the craft shop, hence carrying home a great collection of memories. The bookstore contains written literature about the Ankole and other Kingdoms/tribes of Uganda, religions, prominent people as well as Uganda’s political organization. Souvenirs that can be purchased at the center include African traditional wear like “busuuti“, traditional jewelry, photographs, bags and so much more.
3) Itaba Memorial Hill
The hill offers great panoramic views that enable travelers to appreciate the surrounding landscape. It is historically significant and commemorates the battle between the Banyankore and British colonial forces.
4) Cultural Village
The cultural village known as “Itaramiro” is arguably the most interesting part of this center. The term Itaramiro translates to a place where people gather. The area has several traditional huts with grass roofing and unique architectural designs of the Ankole. The village has both cattle keepers and crop farmers who willingly share information regarding the ancient Ankole kingdom as well as its evolution. Campfire is usually set up in the evenings to entertain and teach visitors about Ankole ancient stories as well as riddles.
This heritage hub provides a warm reception with her guests through traditional Ankole dance and music, locally known as “Ekitaguriro” or the Cow dance. The choreography of this dance mimics the graceful movements of the long-horned cattle, usually performed on cultural occasions like Traditional Marriage ceremonies locally known as “Okuhingira”
5) Mpororo Court/Kitami Palace
Visitors to Igongo Cultural Center get an amazing opportunity to visit Mpororo Court which is also known as Kitami Palace. The name “Kitami” was derived from Queen Kitami, a powerful and influential female leader from the 18th Century. At the Court, you will catch sight of Queen Kitami’s sculpture, spears, shields, drums, milk pots and other antics. There is also a palace, similar to the one of Queen Kitami. In addition, a women council within the Mpororo Court was also established to commemorate the famous Queen and the ladies that served in her court.
6) Restaurant and Country Hotel
The restaurant features a rich menu of traditional Ankole meals such as the popular “Eshabwe.” Other Ugandan dishes and International cuisines are also available at the center thus giving you a great variety to choose from. The country hotel blends both traditional and modern amenities to give travelers a comfortable stay.
7) Igongo Farm
The Center features a fully operational farm that welcomes visitors. The working farm exhibits traditional farming practices for both the typical long-horned cattle and a great variety of crops.
Tourist Attractions near Igongo Cultural Center:
- Biharwe Eclipse Monument
- Lake Mburo National Park