Would you wear the Rwandan traditional hairstyle-Amasunzu?

Every country has a particular heritage and attaches a certain value to their culture. These range from dance, song, poetry, clothing, feeding, and even hairstyles. Today we explore Rwanda’s very own traditional hairstyle—locally known as Amasunzu—that has been depicted as unique and original in style. Here is word on the street about whether some Rwandans would go back to their roots and wear this revered hairstyle.

Friday, January 28, 2011
L-R : Cecile Umulisa ; Angel Umulisa ; Chantal Uwase, ; Deborah Uwase

Every country has a particular heritage and attaches a certain value to their culture. These range from dance, song, poetry, clothing, feeding, and even hairstyles. Today we explore Rwanda’s very own traditional hairstyle—locally known as Amasunzu—that has been depicted as unique and original in style. Here is word on the street about whether some Rwandans would go back to their roots and wear this revered hairstyle.

"The Amasunzu as a hair style was good during those old days and even today it is still a symbol of our culture but I can’t recommend someone to wear it these days.”

Cecile Umulisa, Gacuriro resident.

"Amasunzu is a unique fashion but in the world today, I don’t think people would be interested in such a hair style. But every individual has their own way of doing things because one man’s meat is another man’s poison.”

Angel Umulisa, Kicukiro resident.

"Personally I think the Amasunzu hairstyle was and is still good today because people are wearing it in a modern way through braiding especially for introduction ceremonies (Gusaba). This is an indicator that our traditional culture cannot easily get dropped.”

Chantal Uwase, Kimironko resident.

"For the ladies, Amasunzu makes them look beautiful and look very unique from others. When you look at our culture from an international perspective, the Rwandan culture is very unique.”

Deborah Uwase, Nyamirambo resident.

Ends