Visiting the Pygmies (or Batwa) in Africa is sad and heartwarming. The Batwa are an Indigenous people of Central Africa. It is indeed one of the oldest surviving populations in the region, traditionally living as hunter-gatherers in the forests. Their lifestyle and deep connection to the forest have shaped their culture, religion, and social structure. The Batwa have a rich oral history, with traditions and knowledge passed down through generations.

Over the past few centuries, especially during colonial times and continuing into the post-colonial era, the Batwa have faced significant displacement. Governments and conservation efforts have often led to their eviction from ancestral lands, particularly with the establishment of national parks and wildlife reserves. In Bwindi in Uganda they had to move for the mountain gorillas.

There are community-led initiatives aimed at cultural preservation and sustainable development. You can visit the Batwa at the Batwa Heritage Center. The entrance fee helps them to get a small part of their life back. A visit is deeply moving and confronting, but also very interesting. So if you visit the mountain gorillas, also visit the Batwa and listen to their story.

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