Preserving nature’s history

As I emerge into the premises of this calm and fascinating environment, for some seconds, my sight is glued to a large elephant skull and tusks located in the compound. I am immediately received by a tour guide, who leads me into the museum. The gentleman, who later identifies himself as Vivaldi Ngenzi, shows me around with a detailed briefing of the evidently astonishing features. Located in Nyarugenge District about, 100 metres from Kigali Central Prison is the Natural History Museum. Established in 2006, the former residence of Richard Khant contains individual displays of various ancient samples, research and information about Rwanda’s historic nature, which leaves one surprised but also informed. From the history of Rwanda kingdoms, culture, conflicts, successions to works, and life Khant’s research also shows samples of Rwanda’s animals, insects and plant species. The museum also has various minerals, soil and stone samples; including a stone sample from the moon. Fossils, geographical displays of different land formations in Rwanda and the famous residence of Khant, with 104 years old in Kigali – all these historic events leave you doubtless about the country’s rich and unique natural history. Former Miss National University of Rwanda (NUR), Karine Rusaro Utamuliza is the museum’s acting manager. She shares with The New Times the history of Natural History Museum. Excepts:Q: Why was the museum established? A: Initially we only had one museum, which is located in the Southern Province, Huye, and there was no natural museum in the country, thus the birth of Natural History Museum. The museum was established to educate people about Rwanda’s historic nature, and after they can further go on to the field and explore more about nature. This was Richard Khant’s initiative after doing enough research on Rwanda’s flora and fauna.Q: Who do you target in this? A: This museum is not only for relaxation purposes but also for the educational role. We mostly target the young people since they need to know and learn about the country’s nature, the adults also need to enjoy and learn about nature and its history.Q: How has been the turn up so far? A: In 2010, we had an average of 50 visitors monthly, which increased to 250 in 2011. Currently, we have an average of 300 visitors monthly, so there is a progress. Since not so many people knew about this museum, we mostly receive students in large numbers from schools and other learning institutions. At first, we used to receive a large number of foreigners than nationals but as we went on, the turn up of nationals has increased, which is encouraging.Q: Any challenges you have encountered? A: Not many. Rwandans knew the importance of the museums and their existence in the first place but due to publicity raised by the museums; this has changed currently hence the increase in the turn up.Q: What is the relationship between the museums and the Ministry of Sports and Culture? A: Although we are under the Ministry of Sports and Culture, we are independent – but we work hand in hand with the ministry. Q: Apart from the exhibition, are there other activities you undertake? A: Yes. We have in the backyard of the museum a good view of Kigali City; though not so big, it is at times organised for wedding receptions and parties. Q: What are your future prospects? A: We are working on various projects; the first is exhibiting an elephant skeleton, secondly a crocodile out of casts and then a Gorilla. These projects are expected to be exhibited probably early next year and we believe this too will further raise awareness. We also have a plan to renovate this place; to construct a fountain, establish a restaurant for our visitors to get refreshments and also relax. The museum is open daily starting from 8am - 6pm, with the entrance fee of Rwf1000 for nationals and Rwf500 for local students. International visitors pay Rwf5, 000, while foreign students are charged Rwf3, 000.

Leisure

Preserving nature’s history