The Batwa
The Batwa are an indigenous ethnic minority group of people who form part of the original inhabitants of Central Africa. They are currently found in Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In Uganda the Batwa were hunter/gatherers in the forests of Bwindi, Mgahinga and Echuya until the 1960’s when the government began the process of evicting them. Since 1991 the Batwa have had no access to the forests which now form a National Park protection zone for the endangered gorillas.
How AICM is involved
The Batwa are now forced to learn a completely new lifestyle without assistance from the government or international bodies.
Since 1993 AICM has:
- Bought land to re-settle 850 Batwa households in 8 areas (or village groups)
- Provided schools in two settlements
- Taught and encouraged them to build ther own homes
- Taught them to grow food
- Built community halls and latrines
- Helped them to integrate with their neighboring Bakiga people
More to do
The Batwa are extremely poor and most adults lack literacy. They still need a great deal of assistance to improve their living standards and health. A.I.C.M. is also helping with advocacy to improve their human rights status.
The Batwa settlements are in remote areas. Those who visit are stunned by the natural beauty of the terrain. However, A.I.C.M. staff (extension workers) have to travel long distances to reach the Batwa. Motor cycles and 4wd. vehicles are essential.