Painting Tooro in Glory: Plascon Splashes Shs 65M on Palace Makeover

Kansai Plascon Uganda has made a landmark contribution to the Tooro Kingdom by donating paint worth Shs 65 million for the extensive refurbishment of the Tooro Royal Palace. This restoration project is a critical part of the kingdom’s preparations to celebrate the 30th Coronation Anniversary of His Majesty the Omukama of Tooro, scheduled for September 12, 2025. The palace makeover aims to restore the historic structure’s majestic appearance and uphold the cultural heritage of the Tooro Kingdom on this significant milestone.

 

Key Highlights of the Tooro Palace Revamp Supported by Plascon

 

Kansai Plascon Uganda officially handed over a generous donation of high-quality paint covering both the interior and exterior surfaces of the palace, which spans over 8,500 square meters.

 

The handover ceremony took place at the palace grounds in Fort Portal and was led by Santosh Gumte, Managing Director of Kansai Plascon Uganda, alongside senior company executives.

 

Tooro Kingdom officials, including Prime Minister Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire and Deputy Prime Minister Henry Basaliza, received the donation, expressing deep appreciation for the longstanding partnership with Plascon.

 

The paint refurbishment is guided by Plascon’s #ColourYourWorld corporate social responsibility campaign, which focuses on sustainability, heritage preservation, and uplifting cultural institutions and communities.

 

Strategic and Cultural Significance

 

The palace restoration is much more than aesthetic enhancement; it symbolizes the resilience, pride, and cultural revival of the Tooro Kingdom under the reign of the Omukama.

 

The newly painted palace will serve as a vibrant showcase during the 30th Coronation Anniversary, expected to attract dignitaries, cultural enthusiasts, and guests from Uganda and the diaspora.

 

This initiative reinforces the kingdom’s commitment to preserving its royal heritage and passing down its rich traditions and legacy to future generations.

 

Statements from Key Stakeholders

 

Santosh Gumte emphasized Plascon’s dedication to supporting cultural institutions and the communities they serve, integrating these efforts into the company’s Environmental, Social, and Governance objectives. He highlighted his personal connection to the Tooro community through the Empaako name “Ateeyi,” reflecting a strong cultural bond.

 

Prime Minister Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire welcomed the donation as a reaffirmation of the fruitful, ongoing partnership between Plascon and the Tooro Kingdom that has previously supported events like the Amasaza Cup.

 

Deputy Prime Minister Henry Basaliza noted that the refurbishment contributes to making history, preserving the palace for posterity while enhancing its visual grandeur during the momentous celebrations.

 

Broader Impacts and Corporate Social Responsibility

 

Plascon Uganda’s involvement underscores the company’s role as the official paint partner of Tooro Kingdom, committed to projects that deliver real, lasting impact and vibrancy to public and cultural spaces.

 

The restoration supports community empowerment goals by improving cultural landmarks that foster regional identity and pride.

 

This project aligns with similar Plascon-sponsored initiatives across Ugandan cultural institutions, including the Buganda Kingdom’s Bulange and Twekobe refurbishments, demonstrating the company’s sustained cultural engagement.

 

Looking Ahead: Tooro’s Historic Celebration

 

The 30th Coronation Anniversary marks three decades of leadership and service by the Omukama, with the renovated palace as a centerpiece showcasing Tooro’s vitality.

 

The celebrations are expected to blend traditional ceremonies, cultural performances, and opportunities to foster unity and development within the kingdom and the broader region.

 

Post-celebration, the refurbished palace will continue to be a symbol of heritage and a functional venue for royal and community events.

 

In summary, Plascon Uganda’s Shs 65 million paint donation and refurbishment of the Tooro Royal Palace constitute a pivotal cultural investment, reinforcing ties between corporate Uganda and traditional institutions. As the Tooro Kingdom prepares for its landmark 30th Coronation Anniversary, the revitalized palace stands ready to shine as a beacon of history, pride, and future aspirations.

 

Sources: Sunrise Uganda, The Tower Post