The Gitega museum contains many vestiges of the country’s history. This historical fresco with colonial architecture, located at the entrance to the city, tells a part of the history of traditional Burundi. One of our bloggers visited the premises in the company of Mr. Jean Bosco Niyonzima, the curator of the museum. Reporting.
From the macadamized road, a clearly legible inscription on the front of the building: “National Museum of Gitega”. The building is sober, without particular appeal or grandeur. The small garden in front of the main entrance is full of greenery, maintained as best it can. Before you can enter the museum, you must first pass through a wire mesh gate, then cross a small courtyard paved with stones. A display at the entrance indicates the entry fees: BIF 5,000 for a national adult, BIF 1,000 for a national child, BIF 20,000 for a foreign adult, BIF 5,000 for a foreign child and BIF 2,000 for a national student. In the vestibule, a quote from Ernest Renan, hanging on the wall, already illustrates the value of the museum: “True men of progress are those who have as their starting point a deep respect for their past”. As we begin our little exploration, the museum curator welcomes us; we discuss the price of the visit and, once the deal is made, he first immerses us in the history of the birth of this cultural and traditional center.
A work of Belgian settlers
The Gitega national museum, says curator Jean Bosco Niyonzima, was built under Belgian supervision, exactly in 1955. But the official date of its inauguration is less known. The settlers subsequently entrusted the museum to King Mwambutsa IV Bangiricenge. They wanted to exhibit ethnographic and archaeological remains there to preserve the history of Burundi. These objects were to serve as a bridge between tradition and modernity. The place was to be a center of cultural education. The ethnography of the museum therefore brings together everything relating to the daily life of ancient Burundians, especially life at the royal court: tools, musical instruments, the game ofthe barrierspears for hunting, clothes made of bark focus and in skin, gris-gris and amulets for self-protection, pots of several kinds, etc. Archeology in turn brings together objects that were discovered during archaeological excavations. These objects provide information on the customs and customs of the Burundians who lived in very ancient times. After this brief journey through time, our guide introduces us to the heart of the museum.
Like in a flashback to ancient Burundi
There is only one exhibition hall. The vestibule which gives access already offers a foretaste of what a visit to these places will be like: a first statuette of a warrior armed with a spear adorns the entrance. “That was the Ministry of Defense”announces the museum curator with humor. This warrior fought battles in the name of the nation and “When he returned triumphant from the war, he was called “Intore”, otherwise, he was not called at all”continues the curator. In the exhibition hall, the very first representation is that of the Royal Court. A sculpture represents the king sitting in front of his palace, while his eunuchs come to serve him. Next to this palace iron work is exhibited. “It was our traditional METALUSA”adds our guide, who continues to show us different kinds of tools, formerly produced locally. The traditional brewery (still in use today) is also present. Next comes the legal institution of ancient Burundi. In a corner, a Be careful (notable) wears his traditional attire. The museum also offers a view of the king’s bedroom, consisting of a bed the islandcovered with a mat. This is where a terrible instrument is kept: it’s possible (the guillotine). Daily use items like ivyansi, duck, he taught meetc., are kept in the king’s salon at a young age with great care. Tables representing traditional practices and beliefs are displayed in the small compartments that follow. The practices of focus, to spell et leave are also illustrated. The old-fashioned way of taking tobacco has not been forgotten either.
In the center of the hall is located the stretcher you’re tired on which the king was transported, “it was his V8”says the guide in a teasing tone. Inside the display cases, different currencies used since colonial times, as well as other objects from archaeological excavations, are on display. the miniature representation of the portrait of a drummer. The museum is a small summary of Burundian culture and tradition. One observation: despite the rich cultural heritage it preserves, the Gitega museum is poorly maintained.
A heritage doomed to disappear?
Jean Bosco Niyonzima lists the challenges facing this cultural exhibition center: “Not many nationals visit the museum. The white man comes to discover the whole history of the country. We don’t have this culture of invention and creativity. For example, if the Burundian had continued to make and improve clothes from wood bark, by now, perhaps the country would have a thriving textile industry.. The Gitega museum also faces other difficulties. According to the curator, there is neither budget allocated to its maintenance nor management autonomy. The little money he raises goes directly to the BRB. According to the curator, the public authorities are not concerned about the fate of the Gitega museum. “This is not urgent” is the only response we give to the conservative if he makes a complaint. Even to give a lick of paint, these are loyal partners who volunteer.
The curator thinks that the museum should have a large enough space, a library and a computer room that can accommodate those who want to do research. Despite all these difficulties, he does not give up. To boost visibility, he plans to organize press conferences soon to attract public attention. However, if the public authorities do not lend a hand, what will become of this pearl in 10 years?
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What specific challenges does the Gitega Museum face in preserving Burundian cultural heritage?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Jean Bosco Niyonzima, Curator of the Gitega Museum
Editor: Good day, Mr. Niyonzima. Thank you for joining us today. The Gitega Museum is an intriguing cultural landmark in Burundi. Can you start by giving us a brief overview of its historical significance?
Niyonzima: Thank you for having me. The Gitega Museum, built under Belgian supervision in 1955, plays a critical role in preserving Burundi’s cultural and historical heritage. It was initially designed to showcase ethnographic and archaeological artifacts that highlight the daily life and traditions of our ancestors, especially the royal court.
Editor: The museum seems to be a treasure trove of artifacts. Can you tell us more about some specific pieces that illustrate the richness of Burundian culture?
Niyonzima: Absolutely! As you enter the museum, one of the first things you’ll notice is a statuette of a warrior. This represents our historical military prowess. Inside, we have various tools, musical instruments, and items like bark cloth and hunting spears that were used in daily life. You’ll also find fascinating representations of the royal court, including a sculpture of a king in front of his palace and even a traditional brewery, which is still operational today.
Editor: It sounds remarkable! However, you mentioned that despite this rich cultural heritage, the museum is poorly maintained. Can you share more about the challenges the Gitega Museum is currently facing?
Niyonzima: Yes, it is concerning. The museum is dealing with significant challenges, including limited funding for maintenance and conservation of our exhibits. Many artifacts are at risk of deterioration due to environmental factors and lack of resources. Additionally, there’s also the challenge of raising awareness about the importance of our cultural heritage among the younger generations.
Editor: That indeed sounds challenging. With such an impressive collection, what do you think can be done to better preserve and showcase the cultural heritage of Burundi?
Niyonzima: I believe collaborations with international organizations can bring in the necessary expertise and resources for preservation. Enhancing educational programs for both locals and tourists is crucial, as it creates a deeper appreciation for our history. Additionally, we could leverage digital platforms to showcase our artifacts and reach a broader audience, perhaps even virtual tours of the museum.
Editor: Those sound like excellent approaches. Moving forward, what role do you see the Gitega Museum playing in the future cultural landscape of Burundi?
Niyonzima: The Gitega Museum has the potential to become a key educational and cultural center in Burundi. It can promote dialogue about our history and traditions, serving as a bridge between our past and modernity. By doing so, we can inspire pride in our identity and heritage among younger generations, ensuring that our cultural practices and history are not lost but rather celebrated.
Editor: Thank you, Mr. Niyonzima. Your insights highlight the importance of the Gitega Museum in not just preserving history, but also in shaping the cultural identity of Burundi moving forward. We appreciate your time and efforts in guarding this vital piece of heritage.
Niyonzima: Thank you for giving us a platform to share our story. It’s vital to keep the conversation going about the importance of cultural preservation.