THE INDEPENDENCE MONUMENT: An Iconic Piece

An Iconic Piece Of Uganda’s Heritage

As we celebrate Uganda's 60th Independence anniversary, a huge milestone, to say the least, let us celebrate the art, history and beauty of the Independence Monument, a landmark historical figure. It was unveiled on October 8, 1962, a day before Uganda got her independence from British colonialism.

At 29 feet tall, the Independence Monument stands tall as one of the most important icons of Uganda’s history. It is raised on a stone plinth along Nile Avenue, behind Sheraton Hotel facing the Grand Imperial Hotel.

The iconic monument was created by Gregory Maloba, a former student and Art teacher at Makerere University’s Margaret Trowell School of Industrial and Fine Art. It was modelled on a metal framework and depicts a mother hoisting a child high up. It shows the child’s hands raised upwards in an expression of excitement and freedom at being independent.

The mother stands firm on the ground, with both legs apart and straps around the legs and waist. According to Maloba, the ‘legs-apart’ posture symbolises firmness and the ‘ropes’ around the legs represent the bondage of colonialism out of which Uganda emerged.

It is said that Maloba was paid £900 and completed his work in one month. The monument was placed in what then was called King George V Jubilee Memorial Gardens, replacing the statue of King George V of Britain.

Get an in-depth introduction to Kampala on curated walking tours where you will understand the history and geopolitical landscape of the country and the city’s landmarks. Highlights include a brief history lesson at the Independence Monument, shopping trips to craft centres, art galleries, a visit to Namirembe Cathedral, Gaddafi Mosque, Mengo Palace, Owino and Nakasero Markets, etc. Costs range from 25 USD to 50 USD per person, depending on the itinerary. For the best itineraries and walking tour agents, visit https://www.tripadvisor.com