Batwa Decry Discrimination in Schools and Community

This deep-rooted marginalisation extends to the broader community, where access to shared resources and opportunities remains elusive for this historically marginalized group.
Kisoro – The Batwa community in Uganda continues to grapple with widespread discrimination, particularly in schools where their children face bullying, isolation, and mockery from their peers.
This deep-rooted marginalisation extends to the broader community, where access to shared resources and opportunities remains elusive for this historically marginalized group.
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A delegation from the UAE visiting Bwindi Impenetrable National Park’s Nkuringo Town Council, home to over 300 Batwa, recently highlighted the dire living conditions of the community.
Once forest dwellers living in harmony with nature, the Batwa were relocated to camps on the edge of the forest in 1991 to promote conservation efforts.
Now landless, they face limited access to education, employment, and opportunities for meaningful integration.
A 49-year-old Batwa woman, who requested anonymity, shared her heartbreak over the discrimination her child faced at school.
“My child came home crying many times because other children laughed at him, called him names, and even refused to play with him. It broke my heart because he started losing interest in school. I want him to have an education, but how can he learn in such an environment?” she lamented.
The stigma surrounding the Batwa is rooted in societal stereotypes and their history as hunter-gatherers.
Often perceived as primitive due to their small stature and traditional way of life, they face ridicule and exclusion, eroding their dignity and sense of belonging.
Steven Bwigyirire, tourism coordinator of the Nkuringo Conservation Development Foundation (NCDF), confirmed the prevalence of discrimination among Batwa children.
“These Batwa children, when they are at school, feel discriminated against by other learners,” he said, calling for government intervention.
Bwigyirire urged authorities to initiate public awareness campaigns in schools and communities to foster acceptance and inclusivity.
“We appeal to the government to enhance public awareness and sensitization. Campaigns in schools are needed to welcome the Batwa, integrate them with other people, and give them the quality education that others are getting,” he emphasized.
Discrimination against the Batwa extends beyond schools into broader community interactions, where their lack of land ownership forces many to migrate in search of opportunities.
“They don’t own land, and this makes them move from one place to another. We appeal to the government to buy them some land, send them seeds for planting, and provide experts to train them in agriculture and animal rearing so they can settle,” Bwigyirire added.
The Batwa, often referred to as the “keepers of the forest,” lived in Uganda’s forests, including Bwindi and Mgahinga, until their displacement in 1991 to facilitate conservation efforts for the endangered mountain gorillas.
While gorilla populations have rebounded, the Batwa’s quality of life has deteriorated, leaving them in extreme poverty and reliant on income from crafts, performances, and occasional agricultural work.
Despite these challenges, there are glimpses of progress. Revenue-sharing programs from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and conservation projects have introduced alternative livelihoods, such as livestock rearing, beekeeping, and craft-making.
Interactions with tourists have also helped some Batwa understand the importance of conservation and sustainable practices.
However, the future of Batwa children remains precarious. Discrimination in schools threatens to derail their education and dreams of a better life.
“Education is the key to changing our lives, but our children cannot thrive in an environment where they are mocked and excluded. Some drop out of school. We need help,” the mother said, her voice heavy with emotion.
As stakeholders in tourism and conservation rally to support the Batwa, the government is being called upon to prioritize their needs.
Urgent action is needed to ensure sustainable livelihoods, combat discrimination, and lay the groundwork for an inclusive future for this marginalized community.