GOVERNMENT COMMISSIONS KANYAMAHENE BATWA MODEL VILLAGE TO EMPOWER INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES

The state minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Martin Mugarra, has officially launched the Kanyamahene Batwa Model Village in Rushaaga Parish, Rubuguri Town Council, Kisoro District. This event marks a significant milestone in the government’s commitment to inclusive conservation and community development.

The model village is part of the Bwindi Mgahinga Conservation Trust (BMCT) initiatives, which aim to provide long-term, reliable support for the conservation of biological diversity and the sustainable use of natural resources in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. BMCT also works to promote the welfare of neighbouring communities.

The Kanyamahene Model Village offers eight Batwa families permanent housing, access to clean water, agricultural land, and essential household items. This project is a key component of BMCT’s broader strategy to support Batwa resettlement, housing, and education. The Batwa, an indigenous group historically displaced from forest habitats near Bwindi and Mgahinga, have long faced challenges related to displacement and marginalisation.

During the launch ceremony, Hon. Martin Mugarra praised BMCT and its partners, including WWF, for their visionary leadership and commitment to supporting the Batwa community. He emphasised that the village represents more than just infrastructure; it is a symbol of hope, dignity, and opportunity for the Batwa families. He noted that the initiative reflects what can be achieved when conservation is people-centred and driven by compassion and collaboration.

Since its inception, BMCT has:  

• Procured 406 acres of land for 303 Batwa households across Kisoro, Kanungu, and Rubanda/Kabale districts.

• Constructed 17 permanent houses, including the eight newly commissioned in Kanyamahene.

• Supported the education of over 700 Batwa children, with current beneficiaries in primary, secondary, vocational, and tertiary institutions.

Conservation Meets Community Empowerment

Beyond supporting the Batwa, BMCT has played a pivotal role in strengthening conservation efforts in the Bwindi Mgahinga Conservation Area (BMCA), including;

• Supporting 280 rangers with training and equipment for surveillance and anti-poaching.

• Establishing 31 km and maintaining 82.5 km of Mauritius Thorn hedges to manage human-wildlife conflict.

• Constructing 72 classrooms, 6 health centres, and 45 rainwater harvesting tanks to benefit surrounding communities.
  

 A Model for Sustainable Development

The launch of the Kanyamahene Batwa Model Village underscores the government’s commitment to sustainable development that balances environmental protection with human welfare.

“We are proud to support initiatives that protect our natural heritage while uplifting the communities who live closest to it,” the Minister added. “Together, we are building a future where conservation and community development go hand in hand.”

The event concluded with the official commissioning of the village and a renewed pledge to replicate similar models across Uganda.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities

Email: info@tourism.go.ug

 Phone: +256 (0)414 123456