Kampala — OPENED in 1994, the cultural village, located within the National Theatre grounds in Kampala, continues to be one of the most visited art centres in the country, attracting an average of 150 visitors per day. It has hosted the likes of former US president Jimmy Carter and Godwin Zwelithini, King of the Zulu.

The village is made up of over 40 stalls operating under the National Arts and Crafts Association (NACAU).

Today, the cultural village struggles to assert its relevance in a society that little appreciates the value of art. Since its creation, the cultural village is yet to attain recognition from the Government as an important stakeholder in the promotion of the tourism industry.

The village is also grappling with the exorbitant ground rent rates which are to increase from sh9.4m in 2003 to sh22.2m per quarter next year.

"We play an important role in promoting tourism through arts and craft. We therefore require support from the Government and other policy makers to help us market and subsidise the arts and crafts industry. We call for a national policy to protect the market," says Joyce Mpanga, NACAU chairperson.

However, the National Cultural Centre (UCC) believes that the village is operating under the best possible conditions.

"We are doing our best to support the village and their market is, as far as we are concerned, doing well," says Suzan Kerunen, UCC public relations officer.

Despite its rich cultural heritage, Uganda is yet to acknowledge arts and crafts as a potential tourist attraction and income-generating activity. Support for this sector has been minimal, a far cry from Kenya. A total ban on imports of crafts from other countries in the 70s, by President Kenyatta resulted into a thriving arts and crafts market.