Batwa communities were forcefully removed from their land in Kahuzi-Biega National Park (PNKB) without further accommodations. Evictions have harmful consequences for these communities. Particularly for indigenous groups that have cultural ties and foraging practices that are connected with the forest. Despite the importance of the national park as an established home to Batwa communities, the…
Category: Batwa
The Landless Twa of Rwanda
33,000 Twa (Batwa) account for less than one percent of the Rwandan population and are the most vulnerable population living there. Twa are landless and many struggle to make a living in modern society. The government only recognizes Twa as “historically marginalized.” Photo Credit: Nick Ashdown
Batwa vs. Land Grabbing in Uganda
Batwa are often called the “Keepers of the Forest” and are one of Africa’s oldest surviving indigenous communities.
Mbenga vs. Development in the Dzanga-Sangha Forest
The Mbenga people have lived in the Dzanga-Sangha Forest of the Central African Republic for centuries. However, maintaining a traditional livelihood is now a challenge due to logging, poaching, poor health, and servitude to the majority Bilo who exploit local resources. Photo Credit: The Guardian
Life of Batwa in Burundi
Batwa in Burundi, as elsewhere in the region, account for just one percent of the total population. Like other Batwa, they are viewed as inferior, and many live in poor conditions and face discrimination. Photo Credit: Mario Rizzolio (UN)