Introduction
Batwa also known as the Twa or Pygmies are indigenous hunter-gatherer communities who have historically inhabited the forests of Central Africa, including regions of Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). They are considered one of the oldest indigenous groups in the Great Lakes region and have a unique cultural heritage shaped by their close relationship with the forest environment. The Batwa in Uganda were traditionally known as the “Keepers of the Forest” due to their deep knowledge of the forest ecosystem and their reliance on it for survival. Just like the mountain gorillas who are their neighbors, they are a marginalized and vulnerable community as they are an endangered group.
Once Bwindi impenetrable forest was gazetted as a conservation area in 1991, the Batwa people were evicted and stopped from the forest. This forced them to move to the outskirts of the forest to maintain some relationship with it as it’s the only life they knew. This unplanned evacuation was hard on the Twa as they had to adopt to a new life outside the safe space they were accustomed too and were not allowed to go back for any reason. Much as they were the protectors of the forest many outside the forest believed that the Twa killed or poached the gorillas which also meant that hunting in the forest become illegal even if they were hunting other animals not the endangered mountain gorillas.
The Batwa are believed to be one of the oldest inhabitants of the Great Lakes region of Central Africa. They have a rich cultural heritage that includes unique traditions, beliefs, and practices passed down through generations. Historically, the Batwa lived a semi-nomadic lifestyle, moving seasonally within the forest in search of food and resources. The Batwa lived a nomadic lifestyle as hunter-gatherers, relying on the forest for food, shelter, and medicinal plants. They are skilled hunters, using traditional techniques such as bow and arrow to hunt small game. Gathering wild fruits, roots, and other forest resources also formed an essential part of their subsistence.
The Batwa are pygmies with an average height of 5ft (1.5m) and are considered the poorest people with a low life time and high infant mortality rate which contributes greatly to their dwindling number making them and endangered group. The Twa sing and dance in jubilation after a successful hunt; as a way to thank their god Nyabingi after a satisfying meal; in times of mourning and a marriage ceremony; all this is unique to them and their cultural beliefs.
They have a rich cultural heritage characterized by unique traditions, music, dance, and storytelling. Their cultural practices are closely tied to the forest and reflect their deep spiritual connection to nature. Traditional ceremonies, rituals, and communal gatherings play an important role in preserving Batwa culture and identity.
The drastic change from forest life to outside the forest without warning has taken its toll on the remaining Batwa as they had to learn how to survive on a different platform and has left many on the streets trying to survive or earn. With the known struggles to fit in the new environment and thrive, the Twa are being helped by different people. Efforts have been made by various organizations and governments to address the challenges faced by the Batwa, including land rights initiatives, education programs, and healthcare services tailored to their needs. However, despite these efforts, many Batwa communities continue to struggle with poverty, discrimination, and limited access to basic services.
In recent years, there has been increased recognition of the rights and cultural heritage of indigenous peoples like the Batwa, both at the national and international levels. Advocacy groups continue to work towards ensuring that the rights and dignity of the Batwa and other indigenous groups are respected and protected. With all these multiple efforts we believe the Batwa will get better in this new version of life they are now accustomed to.