Volcanoes Safaris has announced the official launch of the Gahinga Batwa Village, a permanent village for the oldest surviving indigenous people in the Central African Forest, the Mount Gahinga Batwa Community in Gahinga, Uganda.

Volcanoes Safaris, in conjunction with Volcanoes Safaris Partnership Trust (VSPT), supported by donations from Volcanoes guests, acquired the land and materials for the building of the permanent village for the Batwa community and their families. The Adventure Travel Conservation Fund was a major supporter.

Eloisa Barberis Canonico, Sales and Marketing, UK & Europe at Volcanoes Safaris, says the project, run by the VSPT, operates and manages different projects with the neighbouring communities living near Volcanoes lodges. “These projects are integrated in the cultural and conservation activities offered to guests staying at the nearby lodges. Guests staying at Mount Gahinga Lodge are encouraged to visit the Gahinga Batwa Village to meet the Batwa and learn about their culture.”

Land was purchased to allow the Batwa community to build homes, a community centre designed in partnership with Felix Holland of Studio FH, and land for agricultural and recreational use.

It was opened in the presence of representatives of the Kisoro District, Uganda Wildlife Authority, Dr Johannes Refisch, the Co-ordinator for GRASP – The UN Great Ape Programme, the Gorilla Doctors and the local community.

“The Batwa village is a wonderful example of social and environmental responsibility,” said Dr. Refisch.

The project has been widely welcomed by the Batwa, and by the wider local community, as well as local government officials, according to Volcanoes Safaris. “We are so happy that all of us have a home. Now we can begin a new life,” commented Jane Nyirangano, Chairperson of the community.

The Gahinga Batwa community comprises over 100 adults and children, who have had no permanent homes since they left Mgahinga National Park over 25 years ago.

Volcanoes Safaris is looking forward to continuing their relationship with the Batwa community, and helping to preserve their culture by sharing it with guests of the lodges and the VSPT, adding that they will continue to work with them to improve their livelihoods, education and health.

 “This is a historic day for the marginalised Batwa community. This is a landmark project and it is a privilege to be able to support the Batwa to have a new beginning. Finally, they have a home in the shadow of their beloved volcanoes,” said Praveen Moman, Founder of Volcanoes Safaris, adding: “The Batwa are our forefathers and we need to honour their place on Earth. In seeking to support conservation for the gorillas, we need to change the paradigm. We need to make local communities the focal point, and then I am sure they will do their best to support the gorillas.”