HIGIRO

Higiro is located 8 km from Gitega, in the town of Mubuga, on a ridge overlooking the city to the east. Here, ritualistic are custodians of two sites related to the history of the drum, Jurwe and Higiro. The tambourinaires practise their art and discover the historic places (the Python wood, which symbolizes the battle won by the king…), while at the same time defining how they protect four drums: Inajurwe, Inakigabiro, Inamidende and Inabiharage.

The Jurwe site would have been built under the reign of Burundi's first unifying king, Ntare Rushatsi. If there is nothing left, the site is always maintained by the ritualistic, which will accompany you to the tree of king multiséculaire. It dominates one of the most beautiful valleys in Burundi.

The site of Higiro would have been built under a more recent king and is still kept in the state. This is where the tambourinaires will welcome you to the sound of drums and propose to share a musical moment with them. Then, according to your wishes, they will accompany you to Jurwe, to finish the visit by sharing beer with the musicians.

The walking tour is possible from Gitega, crossing two valleys in the northeast before climbing on the ridge. By car, you must first take the road to Karuzi on 3 km, then turn right onto the road that climbs towards Higiro (6 km). Signs have been set up recently. For any information, please refer to Désiré Nkumburwa, who is responsible for the troupe and whose contact details are listed here.