See the Ancient Forest through the Eyes of its First People – the Batwa People
Can Gorillas – Forest Conservation – Tourism and the Batwa People Coexist?
Visiting the Batwa People in Uganda-The First People of the Forest: The Batwa people, an indigenous group in Uganda, have faced marginalization and challenges due to their traditional forest-dwelling lifestyle and reliance on hunting and gathering for survival.
Historically, the Batwa inhabited the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and Echuya Forest Reserve. However, establishing protected areas and conservation efforts led to their forced eviction from their ancestral lands, resulting in the loss of their traditional way of life.
The Batwa are considered conservation refugees, living in poverty and experiencing discrimination and marginalization within mainstream society. However, there are ongoing efforts to preserve their unique culture and way of life. Visitors to Uganda can visit Batwa communities and gain insights into their customs, traditions, and livelihoods.
Visiting the Batwa people offers a chance to engage in a distinctive and enlightening cultural experience. Visitors can learn about the Batwa’s traditional hunting and gathering techniques and their spiritual and medicinal beliefs and participate in artistic performances featuring traditional dances and music. Additionally, supporting Batwa artisans by purchasing handicrafts contributes to their economic empowerment.
It’s crucial to approach visits to Batwa communities responsibly and respectfully, under the guidance of trained and knowledgeable guides. Visitors should also be mindful of the potential impact of their stay and strive to support sustainable tourism initiatives that directly benefit the local communities.
Overall, visiting the Batwa people in Uganda provides a meaningful opportunity to appreciate their cultural heritage, promote cultural preservation, and contribute to the well-being of the local communities.
Visiting the Batwa People in Uganda-The First People of the Forest
The Batwa- once the Keepers of the Forest are currently Conservation Refugees banned from the Forest.
Before visiting the Batwa people in Uganda, it’s essential to understand their history and how they struggle today. The Batwa and the Twa
people in Rwanda are the original people of the rainforests in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. They lived sustainably in these forests for thousands of years, using their ecosystem knowledge for hunting, gathering food, and medicine.
In recent years, the Batwa have faced serious challenges. Many national parks and conservation areas have opened to protect endangered species like the Mountain Gorillas. Unfortunately, this has led to the Batwa being removed from their traditional hunting and gathering grounds. Conservationists argued that the Batwa could not live alongside the gorillas, which resulted in many being displaced. Their sustainable practices and deep connection to the land were often overlooked.
Today, the Batwa often struggle to find their place in society. Many had to move to cities, leaving their traditional lifestyles behind. They now face the reality of being Conservation Refugees, losing their homes and livelihoods for the sake of conservation.
Understanding this situation is crucial for anyone who wants to visit or support the Batwa people. Recognizing their history and their challenges helps highlight their resilience and rich cultural heritage and the importance of advocating for their rights in conservation efforts
The movie “Gorillas in the Mist” painted the Batwa as Gorilla Killers, a label that has stuck until now.
The movie “Gorillas in the Mist” has affected how people view the Batwa, often showing them as gorilla killers. This label has stuck over the years. However, it’s important to ask: “Can gorillas, forest conservation, tourism, and the Batwa people live together?” The answer is yes. For thousands of years, the Batwa and gorillas lived side by side in the forests of southwest Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo before Bantu groups arrived. This deep historical connection underscores the significance of the Batwa’s culture and their role in forest conservation.
The Batwa have a special creation story. In it, the Creator gave height and good land to some people, but when it came to the Batwa, there were no gifts left. Instead, they received the rainforest, which is very important to them. When the government forced them out of their lands in the 1990s, they felt rejected by God again and lost their connection to the land they loved. Despite these challenges, the Batwa have shown remarkable resilience, adapting to their new circumstances and finding ways to keep their culture alive.
When you visit the Batwa people—the People of the Rainforest in Uganda—you help keep their traditions and culture alive. Your visit provides some income and support to this often-overlooked group. We encourage you to tip the guides and buy souvenirs from them at the end of your visit. Also, take the time to see how they live today outside their traditional homes. Even the poorest tourists have a better life than the wealthiest Mutwa; no Mutwa can afford a gorilla permit or a safari.
The Batwa people, often called pygmies, were the first to live in the rainforests of Uganda, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Burundi. For thousands of years, they thrived in these forests, living in harmony with wildlife, including mountain gorillas. They had a low environmental impact, taking only what they needed. They did not build permanent homes, except for the natural Garama Cave, which served as shelter during wars.
The Batwa (known as Twa in Rwanda) lived simply and closely with nature, without farming or raising animals. They depended entirely on the rainforest for their needs. As a Batwa person once said, “A Mutwa loves the forest as much as he loves his own body.” This profound statement underscores the Batwa people’s deep connection and respect for their rainforest, highlighting the critical importance of finding ways for them to live alongside gorillas and the forest.
Visiting the Batwa People in Uganda-The First People of the Forest
any in Uganda, Rwanda, and DR look down on the Batwa People?
Many people in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo view the Batwa people negatively.
It’s A misconception that the Batwa hunted Gorillas. In fact, they have lived alongside these majestic creatures for centuries. Any hunting that did occur was often a result of Western influence, as the Batwa were forced out of the Forest and encouraged to hunt for money. Today, they are unfairly labeled as poachers in places like Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla Park. Taller ethnic groups view them as lesser, calling them lazy, squatters, and thieves.
Contrary to the common misconception, the Batwa lived in harmony with the Forest and its inhabitants. They were not the ones to clear the forests for farming and cattle grazing, unlike the Bantu. The Batwa’s peaceful coexistence with Gorillas, Chimpanzees, and other wildlife is a testament to their respect for nature.
When Rwanda was a kingdom, the Batwa made significant contributions. They paid tribute to the Tutsi King, served as advisers, dancers, and warriors in the king’s court, and even had the authority to collect payments from those who entered the Forest and tax traders passing through their area. These roles underscore their importance and influence in Rwandan history.
The Eviction of the Batwa from the Forests
Life for the Batwa people changed dramatically in 1991 when the Ugandan government created the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. These parks aim to protect the forests, wildlife, and mountain gorillas. In 1992, the government evicted everyone living on parkland, including the Batwa, who had lived in the forests for generations. The Batwa received no compensation in land or money for their loss. In contrast, non-Batwa farmers who had harmed the land received compensation and land rights.
Despite their long history of living sustainably in the forests, the Ugandan government ignored the Batwa. The need to protect the forests was critical, but it shouldn’t have come at the expense of the Batwa’s rights. Today, the existence of Mgahinga and Bwindi is linked to gorilla conservation efforts, which rely on revenue from gorilla tourism. However, the Batwa do not benefit from this tourism.
Surrounding communities are densely populated, and as they expand, they continue to invade the forests for land. This expansion threatens the ecosystems and habitats of the gorillas. The Batwa’s traditional way of life, centered around hunting and gathering, has been destroyed. They are now landless and unable to maintain their cultural lifestyle.
Although they are citizens of Uganda, the Batwa find themselves marginalized and without rights. They live as squatters near the parks, often at the mercy of others. Many Batwa have lost their identity and are forced into begging or low-wage work. They live in extreme poverty, unable to meet their basic needs, while other tribal communities largely ignore them.
The surrounding population often views the Batwa negatively, labeling them as lazy, thieves, or substance abusers. Non-Batwa refuse to marry members of the Batwa community and avoid sharing meals with them. This leads to harassment and random acts of violence against the Batwa.
Access to healthcare is also a significant challenge. Many clinics do not treat the Batwa, leading to high mortality rates, especially among infants. Fortunately, the Kellerman Foundation is helping to improve healthcare access with Bwindi Community Hospital, which serves all Batwa tribes.
Over the years, Batwa’s cultural practices have been endangered. Young people hear stories from their elders but cannot experience life in the forests. They witness poverty instead of learning valuable traditional skills. Essential knowledge about gathering, hunting, and conventional medicine is not passed down anymore.
While some organizations in Uganda advocate for the Batwa, they lack government representation. They dream of returning to the forests and living peacefully alongside the mountain gorillas. Unfortunately, this dream may never come true. The shrinking forests cannot support both the Batwa and the gorillas, and living nearby could spread diseases to the gorillas.
Today, fewer than 3,000 Batwa people live in Uganda, and their survival is at risk. Many dedicated individuals and organizations are working hard to revive the Batwa spirit of living in harmony with their environment. The Kellerman Foundation and other nonprofit organizations are committed to supporting the Batwa. They have purchased land, built homes, established schools and clinics, created water and sanitation projects, and opened Bwindi Community Hospital to improve Batwa’s living conditions and cultural identity.
Ota Benga – a Pygmy on display at the Bronx Zoo in a cage with an Orangutan
Below is the story of Ota Benga, a Mbuti from the Ituri8 forest that spills into Uganda. It is a disgusting account but reflects how the Pygmies, including the Batwa, have been seen by others.
- Ota Benga was captured in March 1904 by US trader Samuel Verner from Belgian Congo, Ituri Forest. His age is not known. He may have been 12 or 13
- Taken by ship to New Orleans to be shown later that year at World’s Fair in St Louis with eight other young males
- The fair continued into the winter when the group was kept without adequate clothing or shelter.
- In September 1906, Ota Benga was exhibited for 20 days in New York’s Bronx Zoo, attracting huge crowds.
- Outrage from Christian ministers ended his incarceration, and he was moved to New York’s Howard Colored Orphan Asylum, run by African-American Reverend James H. Gordon.
- In January 1910, he went to live at the Lynchburg Theological Seminary and College for black students in Virginia.
- He taught neighborhood boys how to hunt and fish and told stories of his adventures back home.
- He later reportedly became depressed with his longing for home and, in March 1916, shot himself with a gun he had hidden. He was thought to be around 25 years old.
Source: Spectacle: The Astonishing Life of Ota Benga
This month, the Bambuti people near the Ituri Forest were raided, raided, butchered, and body parts were taken for Witchcraft purposes. This is by people who want to wipe out ethnic communities like the Batwa.
Visiting the Batwa People – the People of the Rainforest in Uganda keeping the ways of old alive:
A Ray of Hope for the Batwa People of Uganda!
The Batwa people can no longer live in their ancestral forests. Since their eviction, many of their cultural practices have quickly faded. However, some positive changes are happening.
In 2011, with help from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Netherlands Embassy in Kampala, the Uganda Wildlife Authority started the Batwa Cultural Trail in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. This program allows Batwa community members to guide tourists through the forest, sharing their ancient hunting and gathering methods. These guides can return to the rainforest and keep their traditions alive. Batwa communities earn half of the fees from the Batwa Trail and can also receive tips from visitors.
The International Gorilla Conservation Program worked with the Batwa to create the Buniga Batwa Forest Walk and village visit program. This program is located at the southern end of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Even though Buniga Forest is not part of the national park, it has similar plants and animals. Visitors may also see some chimpanzees. The forest walk led by Batwa guides helps keep their cultural traditions alive.
Another initiative is the Batwa Experience, set up by the Kellerman Foundation outside Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. This half-day experience benefits the Batwa community and allows visitors to learn about their culture.
Today, Batwa communities benefit from tourism. This income helps them avoid poaching and encourages them to protect the forest and its wildlife.
In 2021 – Batwa People win their loss of land case in Uganda’s Constitutional Court – 2nd highest court in the country:
In 2021, the Batwa people won their case in Uganda’s Constitutional Court, the second highest court in the country. The court decided that the Batwa were wrongfully evicted without any compensation. Onyango Owor, a lawyer for the Batwa community, expects they will eventually receive financial compensation and access to forest lands for cultural practices like religion, medicine, artifact use, and animal tracking. However, this may take several more years due to an appeal filed to the Supreme Court by Uganda’s attorney general, the Wildlife Authority, and the National Forestry Authority.
Bashir Hangi, the Uganda Wildlife Authority’s communications manager, thinks nothing will change. In a written response, he stated, “We believe the evidence is sufficient to maintain the status quo. We have no compensation plan for them.”
After hearing the court’s decision, Batwa communities near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Mgahinga Gorilla Park, and other areas celebrated this victory. Let us hope for some restoration and compensation in the future.
Visiting the Batwa People – the First People of the Rainforest in Uganda
Authentic Cultural Encounters with the Batwa People as you visit Uganda on a Safari
The Batwa Trail – Mgahinga Gorilla National Park:
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a beautiful place to visit. As you explore with Batwa Guides, you will see amazing scenery all around you.
The Batwa Trail lets you experience the forest through the eyes of the Batwa Pygmy people, who are the first inhabitants of this area. This trail helps the Batwa community earn money, making a positive impact on their lives.
On the Batwa Trail, you will learn about their traditions and end your journey in the Garama Cave. Here, Batwa women will perform a song that expresses their sadness about not living in the forest anymore, allowing you to connect with their culture.
You will also see how the Batwa hunted and gathered food in the old days. The trail usually takes about five hours, and most visitors rate it highly for its authentic experience.
Remember to tip your guides and buy souvenirs from the Batwa community to support their efforts and preserve their culture. Read more about the Batwa Trail.
The Buniga Batwa Forest Walk:
You can easily reach Kisoro from the southern area of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, like Nkuringo and Rushaga, or from Lake Mutanda.
The forest walk here teaches you about the Batwa People and their traditions. You can visit their village to see beehives and local crafts.
The African Wildlife Fund started this activity to help the Batwa Community and reduce antelope poaching in the parks. The Batwa know the visitor fees for Gorilla Trekking, but they are not allowed in the Forest. A small percentage of these funds should be shared with them, but not all community members often benefit.
This experience offers a deeper connection with the forest’s first people. It is part of a community program supported by the International Gorilla Conservation Program.
The Batwa Experience in Buhoma- Bwindi Forest Buffer Zone:
The Batwa Experience happens just outside the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, famous for its wildlife, including the endangered mountain gorillas. This experience allows you to learn about the traditional life of the Batwa People, who have a strong connection to the forest.
During this over five-hour experience, you will participate in activities that show how the Batwa hunted and gathered food. You will also see how they prepared meals and used plants, roots, and tree bark for medicine. This hands-on approach helps you understand their deep knowledge of the forest.
Located in Buhoma, this experience is loved by visitors who often remember it fondly. You can easily add the Batwa Walks to your safari schedule around Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla Park.
This cultural experience is engaging and educational. You will learn about the history and traditions of the Batwa community and their current challenges. The Kellerman Foundation helped create this experience, ensuring it is authentic and respectful of Batwa culture. Join us to gain a deeper understanding of the Batwa way of life.
Are Batwa Cultural Visits Authentic?
People often ask us about the difference between visiting Batwa communities and the typical Masai Village Visit many tourists experience in Kenya or Tanzania. The Batwa experience is a reenactment of how they lived in the Forest for thousands of years until they were forcefully evicted in 1991 and 1992 without compensation. They became Conservation Refugees, while Gorilla Trekkers spent thousands of dollars to see the gorillas that once belonged to the Batwa.
The Batwa Visits allow tourists to see the Forest through the eyes of the Batwa, the first people of the Forest. This experience is meaningful for both tourists and the Batwa. It helps the Batwa keep their culture alive in the 21st Century. This is not poverty tourism meant to evoke pity. Many visitors feel grateful for the chance to meet the Batwa people during their Gorilla Trekking in Uganda.
These visits help restore some dignity to the Batwa people, who have faced many challenges.
Simple Question: Why not train some of the Batwa as Park Rangers?
Over the years, since the Batwa Trail began, some of our clients and guests on Safari have asked, “Why are there no Batwa Rangers? That is not just the case in Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo. If you ask, you might get such answers as lack of education and English. All things that can be done.
Walter Baumgärtel, we have referred to as the father of Gorilla Tourism in Uganda. He was the proprietor of Travellers Rest Hotel in Kisoro. The early Travellers Rest Hotel became a base frequented by George Schaller, Bernhard Grzimek, Raymond Dart, and now the famous Dian Fossey, among many others.
Dian Fossey went as far as to call Walter Baumgärtel’s Travellers Rest Hotel “her second home.” She further wrote, “His Travellers Rest Hotel had been an oasis to many scientists preceding me … I had met Walter on my first safari in 1963, and during the six-and-a-half-month study in 1967 had grown to think of him as one of the kindest and most endearing friends I had made in Africa.”
Walter Baumgärtel wanted to see the Mountain Gorillas and eventually received permission from the British Colonial Government. Reuben Rwazangire, a Mutwa, became his beloved guide and tracker. Others followed suit. If that was possible, then why not in the 21st Century? Read more here.
If you are interested in a visit with the Batwa People while Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla Park – don’t hesitate to get in touch with us
