Humbled & Sore: A Journey to Burera’s Roots
Iztok’s mind was blown. He had never experienced the authentic warmth, the overwhelming energy, or the unfiltered fun of visiting an African village. He had also never, in his life, been a community’s focal point — all eyes on him like he was some global celebrity. “How should I act?” he wondered.
“Naturally. Just be yourself,” he was told. And to his credit, he proved to be the ideal guest: curious, game for anything, and unbothered by the occasional awkward moment.
He found himself on the eastern shores of Rwanda’s Lake Burera, stepping into the world of The Roots of Nyabingi Heritage Centre. This is the crown jewel of the Burera Youth Community Initiative, a non-profit devoted to sustainable development, community empowerment, and economic growth in Burera District. Iztok, meanwhile, had a simpler mission: keep smiling and try not to trip over anything, or anyone.
The Centre isn’t just an exhibition celebrating Rwanda’s history and cultural heritage; it’s a hub for much more. There’s a campsite and plans for a bar and restaurant — a far cry from its pre-pandemic reality of only one building. The new location allows it to grow into a village of its own while remaining an under-the-radar wonder.
The truth is that, despite hosting the national cancer treatment centre and a health delivery university with international ambitions, Burera District remains rather isolated. The roads to its headquarters, Butaro, are horrendous, and its borderline position doesn’t help.
After completing the full Twin Lakes loop and returning to the urban oasis of Musanze, Iztok’s behind was staging a protest. Yet, this is something we are going to leave behind (see what we did there?) soon enough. This very year, a shiny new tarmac highway is set to connect Butaro to Kigali and Cyanika, the border crossing with Uganda.
As for The Roots of Nyabingi, its future should be bright. With better connections, bigger dreams, and visitors like Iztok, Lake Burera is well on its way to becoming a top destination.
“Rwanda has such beautiful hidden spots that cannot be described in words … Even more remarkable are the locals who proudly showcase their traditions, many of which could still be of use today — in Europe as well,” concludes our guest.
photos by Miha Logar
