The Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation has officially finalized the repatriation of a 17th-century royal throne to the Kingdom of Buganda in modern-day Uganda. The artifact, which holds immense spiritual and political significance, was taken during the colonial era and has been part of Berlin’s museum collections for over a century. The return ceremony in Kampala was attended by heritage officials from both nations, marking a significant step in Germany's ongoing commitment to addressing its colonial past.
This restitution follows years of diplomatic negotiations and provenance research that confirmed the throne was acquired under duress. Experts note that the Buganda Throne is not merely a museum object but a living piece of heritage intended for use in traditional ceremonies. The Ugandan National Museum will house the artifact temporarily until a dedicated royal gallery is completed.