Inyambo, Rwanda’s popular long-horned royal cows, stand as one of the country’s most distinctive treasures, was recently reintroduced to Bigogwe, a picturesque area tucked away in Nyabihu District, Western Province.
Inyambo represent more than just livestock in Rwanda but an enduring symbol of the wisdom of the ancient Rwandan people in selective breeding and their firm pursuit of unique cattle.
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Bigogwe is an emerging spot for cultural tourism in the North-Western region.
According to Alexis Ngabo Karegeya, the driving force behind the ‘Visit Bigogwe’ initiative, the cows, which embody a legacy deeply connected with the country’s history and cultural identity, have been absent from the area for nearly 50 years.
Ngabo’s passion for his roots has transformed Bigogwe under his brand "Ibere rya Bigogwe” into a destination that appeals to both locals and travelers alike. As a native of this area, his efforts have unveiled the natural beauty and cultural wealth of this hidden gem.
"I had the idea over the past two years. As you know, this venture is about showcasing cultural tourism, but it lacked authenticity because I wasn’t showing our own breed (Inyambo) or any other indigenous cows. Honestly, I could hardly explain to visitors why there were no Inyambo on site and across Bigogwe, and this made me feel like I was offering an inadequate experience,” he told The New Times.
In the beginning, Ngabo brought in two males at the area while more cows are on the way.
"I want to make them a priority. Locals were excited to see them, as most of them had never seen Inyambo in person,” he said.
"Inyambo represents Rwandans in various cultural aspects, and these are our traditional cows from before we introduced other breeds from far away. Now, my initiative fully reflects who Rwandans are and our history, which will be shared with visitors.”
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At ‘Ibere Rya Bigogwe’, tours involve diverse cultural activities such as hiking, visiting Bigogwe cows, drinking fresh milk in traditional cups (Inkongoro, udukebe, ingare), learning to milk cows, understanding Kinyarwanda, and practicing traditional customs like ‘Kuvugira Inka’ (cow praising).
Ngabo believes that Inyambo cows will add more curiosity for visitors who have been requesting their presence in Bigogwe.
Additional experiences include playing traditional games like ‘Urukiramende’ (high jump) and ‘Kunyabanywa,’ as well as enjoying traditional dances like ‘Ikinyemera’ and savoring traditionally cooked food.
Where to find Inyambo for cultural tourism?
Inyambo cows are usually found at the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza, Southern Province, where they are showcased for cultural tourism, and the site is open to anyone interested in seeing them. The price for this service varies depending on specific circumstances.
Now that Inyambo cows have been reintroduced to Bigogwe, they add a natural and tranquil experience for tourism enthusiasts. This has made Bigogwe another notable destination to spotlight Rwanda’s culture.
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Inyambo and its significance
Robert Masozera, the Director General of the Rwanda Heritage and Cultural Academy (RCHA), explained that Inyambo cows hold great significance in Rwandan culture in socio-economic, cutlural and political aspects.
"Indeed, they were not considered in the same way as other livestock, but rather as special creatures, positioned between humans and animals, due to their aesthetic appeal and significant social, economic, and political importance,” Masozera said.
"Not only were they symbols of friendship and fraternity between people, but they also played a very important role in traditional rites and ceremonies, such as Ubukwe, Indamukanyo, naming ceremonies, and more,” Masozera explained.
"Politically”, he continued, "they were a symbol of power, esteem, and respect, as well as a diplomatic tool. When a monarch wanted to maintain good relations with neighboring countries, he gifted them cows, just as he would take their cows in times of conflict (war).”
Cows were also a symbol of prosperity, holding a similar role in society as money does today. More importantly, they were highly respected, having their own exploits, poems, songs, names, and rituals, highlighting their importance.