With the imposing Virunga volcanoes on the horizon, the tapestry of Echuya Forest Reserve becomes even more striking. Once upon a time, this was all one uninterrupted woodland expanse, but some 400 years ago Bantu farmers split what is now Mgahinga Gorilla National Park from Echuya.
Our partners, the Batwa “Pygmies” of Rwamahano, invite visitors into the ancient story, showcasing how their ancestors once survived in the bamboo wilderness. Today they reside on a hill above the forest’s edge, with sweeping views of Lake Bunyonyi below.
When we sat together yesterday for our annual meeting, they surprised us by naming their single biggest headache: Gad Semajeri. A self-styled politician, he brings his clients to their settlement in ways the community finds disrespectful and divisive. One of the few Batwa with formal education and fluent English, Semajeri loudly markets himself (and his Batwa Development Organisation/ Batwa Communities Org.) as the champion of the indigenous people. But there is a problem: they want nothing to do with him!
Ironically, we recently received a message from the same man. “As representatives of the Batwa community, we expect discussions about projects and initiatives to involve us directly. If not, we’ll assume all projects and assets related to our community will be managed by our organization,” was the gist of it. Faced with this, what else could the Batwa — and we — do but laugh in disbelief?
We also revisited a practical matter: the savings arrangement we’ve maintained for over a decade. Half of visitors’ community contributions go to the Batwa immediately; the rest is held back and paid out in bulk once or twice a year. They were clear: this system still works. It allows them to plan, invest, and think long-term.
The gathering closed with updates on their imprisoned leader, John Kanusu, and a discussion on how to further refine the already strong forest-fringe walk and community experience they offer to guests.
We are proud of this Batwa group. Their level of self-organisation and seriousness can serve as a model for others. And quite simply, they are good people.
photos by Moses Oshaba & ML Rwebandira
Leave a Reply