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The Batwa Pygmies Network

Fostering a Brighter Future for the Batwa Pygmies

The Batwa Pygmies Network is an indigenous-led international organization dedicated to fostering a brighter future for the Batwa Pygmies, who are among Africa’s original indigenous people of the forest.

Our Mission

We represent the global Batwa population of 70,000 to 87,000, spanning Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Our mission is to serve as a voice for our communities worldwide, advocating for their rights, well-being, and cultural preservation.

Focus in 2024

Our primary focus in 2024 is to enhance our communication network:

Internal Communication: We aim to establish an efficient digital communication platform within our communities. Given that 98% of the Batwa are illiterate, this infrastructure will facilitate information sharing, coordination, and empowerment.

External Engagement: We seek to connect with the global community. By amplifying our indigenous voice from Africa to the world, we can raise awareness about the challenges faced by the Batwa.

Key Initiatives

Participation in COP16 Biodiversity in Colombia:

We aspire to participate in events like COP16 Biodiversity in Colombia. This platform allows us to share our invaluable biodiversity knowledge.

We will highlight the challenges we face in the 21st century, including questions about our survival as a people.

The paradox of being displaced from our ancestral lands to save gorillas is a pivotal discussion we aim to engage in.

Learning from Other Indigenous Communities:

We recognize the importance of learning from other indigenous communities worldwide.

These communities successfully safeguard biodiversity while thriving as an integral part of it.

Together with gorillas and the global ecosystem, we can create a sustainable future.

Meet Our Team

Isaiah Wycliff (He/Him): CEO

Twizeyimaana Patience (She/Her): President

Tumuheirwe Eric (He/Him): Elder (Tradition keeper)

Niwagaba Deus (He/Him): Communication

Nyamihanda Alice (She/Her): Elder (Tradition keeper)

Join us in our journey to protect our heritage, advocate for our rights, and build bridges across cultures. Together, we can create positive change for the Batwa Pygmies and the world.