The role of Monumental Sculptures in the Political History of Uganda.

Abstract

This study critically examines the role of monumental sculptures in Uganda's political history, analysing their function as both artistic expressions and nstruments of political communication. From the colonial era through post-independence governments to contemporary regimes, monumental sculptures have served as powerful visual tools for asserting authority, shaping national identity, and commemorating key figures and events. The research employs a multidisciplinary approach, drawing on art history, political science, and cultural studies, and is informed by qualitative data gathered through fieldwork, archival research, and interviews with artists, historians, and political commentators. Key case studies include statues of colonial administrators, national heroes, and contemporary leaders, each contextualized within its socio-political environment. The findings reveal that these sculptures are not static relics but dynamic symbols whose meanings shift with changing political narratives and public perceptions. The report argues that understanding the political use of monumental art in Uganda provides deeper insight into the country's historical trajectory, collective memory, and the contested process of nation-building