ALL >> Travel >> View Article
Back To Basics With The Batwa
4,000 years ago, the Batwa pygmies lived in the caves and vine-covered trees of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, south west Uganda. Recently, however, with both an increase in tourism and conservation efforts, these ‘keepers of the forest’ have been forced to leave their forest dwelling.
For many tourists, the highlight of a Uganda safari, is a trek to see the rare mountain gorillas. After all, what comes close to wild encounter with our planet’s last remaining primate cousins and coming face-to-face with a Silverback? So, as human proximity to these gentle giants increases the risk of infection, sanctuary in the forest was given to Bwindi’s mountain gorilla population and, the Batwa – with no land rights or compensation - were left to fend for themselves.
The Batwa’s primeval hunter-gatherer habits, rich cultural heritage and knowledge of the forest were at severe risk of dying out. That is, until an American physician – Dr Scott Kellerman and his wife – decided to establish a ‘living museum’, better known as the Batwa Development Program (BDP). In 100 acres of forest, which are adjacent ...
... to Bwindi National Park, the BDP – a community led project - has enabled the Batwa to preserve their traditions for future generations, as well as providing a cultural twist for anyone visiting the country’s gorillas on a Uganda safari.
Batwa Facts:
The Batwa people are petite in stature, sprightly and surprisingly strong and now run the Batwa Development Program themselves. The projects focus on improving the lives of all Batwa people through education, health, land acquisition as well as income generation initiatives. Inspiring Batwa elders, dressed in bark-cloth and goatskins, lead tours of their past lives, which showcase their use of medicinal plants and herbs, their hunting/gathering customs with a traditional bow and arrow, and their use of other tools, which remarkably, remain pre-stone age.
Storytelling is also a huge part of Batwa culture – vital in a world without books and writing materials. This is crucial for the younger generation of Batwa – now providing the only way in which knowledge is handed down. It’s also what makes the BDP so palatable, as it’s not just an experience for those on a Uganda safari - most of the Batwa children have never set foot in their ancestors’ ancient world, but they now have opportunities to learn from their forefathers and to retain a sense of their heritage.
Uganda’s responsible tourism industry is really starting to take shape, with a number of activities planned for the coming year, including a new Batwa trail on the Rwenzori Mountains, more itineraries offering local experiences, as well as increased support for conservation. Play your part on a visit to Uganda, by discovering a world beyond the usual safari experience and seek out what else this astonishingly diverse country has to offer.
The Far Horizons offer a variety of luxury Uganda safari holidays and accommodation.
Add Comment
Travel Articles
1. Why Is The Standard Umrah Package From Kolkata Ideal For Your First Pilgrimage?Author: hajjumrahservice
2. Discover The Wonders Of Arunachal Pradesh Tourism
Author: The Roaming Shoes
3. Experience Elite Travel: Effortless First-class Flight Reservations
Author: Infinity Travels
4. Planning A Memorable Family Pilgrimage To Tirupati From Bangalore?
Author: Sri Balaji Travels
5. Bangalore To Tirupati Car Packages By Sri Balaji Travels: Your Guide To A Comfortable And Hassle-free Pilgrimage
Author: Sri Balaji Travels
6. How To Get Tirupati Darshan Tickets In Bangalore
Author: Sri Balaji Travels
7. Bangalore To Tirupati One-day Bus Packages
Author: Sri Balaji Travels
8. Planning A Vacation - Best Routes And Car Rental In Gujarat
Author: Mahakal Cab Service
9. Heathrow Airport Transfer
Author: justairports.london
10. Airport Transfer Service
Author: Justairports.london
11. Unveiling The Beauty Of Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara, And Chitwan: A Comprehensive Tour Guide
Author: thameltravel
12. Exploring The Wonders Of Small Group Tours In Nepal And Bhutan: Your Ultimate Guide
Author: thameltravel
13. Look No Further Than Kcarz For Next Trip In Jaipur
Author: Khajan Singh
14. Why A Hot Air Balloon Ride Is The Best Way To Experience A Kenya Wildlife Safari
Author: Miya Astone
15. Exploring The Archaeological Site Of Ancient Thera: A Journey Back In Time
Author: george Alex