Introduction
August 2025 marked a watershed for community-based tourism and conservation in Uganda with the launch of the Kanyamahene Batwa Model Village in Kisoro District. Designed to empower the Batwa, traditional “forest keepers” displaced from Bwindi and Mgahinga, the project aligns eco-tourism, cultural preservation, and livelihood improvement.
Key Facts
Holistic Development: The government, through BMCT and WWF support, provided housing, farmland, education, and clean water for Batwa families, with expansion plans nationwide.
Conservation Impact: Over 300 households have received direct support, and 700+ children benefit from education initiatives, while rangers and locals partner in anti-poaching and human-wildlife conflict mitigation.
Tourism Integration: “Gorilla Friendly” ecolabels, Batwa homestead visits, and village tours enhance authentic traveler engagement and economic benefits for indigenous communities.
Voices from the Ground
Tourism Minister Martin Mugarra emphasized, “Conservation and community well-being must go hand in hand.” Batwa community leaders and tourism advocates view the Model Village as a blueprint for sustainable growth and cultural resilience.
Support ethical travel!
Book your next gorilla trekking safari with Nile Abenteuer Safaris and include a Batwa cultural experience. Your visit directly supports conservation and the empowerment of Uganda’s original rainforest custodians.