Bulls and Buffalo: Long-Horned Cattle Farm near Lake Mburo Park

About this Experience

Step into a living legacy at the Mzee Eriya John Barujwara farm, a sprawling 100-acre sanctuary where the traditions of the Ankole people breathe and thrive. Located at the edge of Lake Mburo National Park in the heart of Nyakahita Rwetango and coordinated by the Rwetango Tourism Centre, this isn't just a place to visit—it’s an invitation to become part of a living history that has curated this land for over half a century A Living Heritage Mzee Eriya John and his wife are the pillars of a vibrant household of over ten, spanning three generations. Having lived on this land for 56 years, Mzee Eriya offers a depth of storytelling that no guidebook can match. He shares a unique history of coexistence, having lived in harmony with the local wildlife long before the neighboring Lake Mburo National Park was even established. His tales bridge the gap between the wild African savannah and the disciplined life of a cattle keeper Life on the Farm: From Udder to Cup The soul of the Barujwara home is the cattle. The farm is a fascinating blend of heritage and modern husbandry, featuring both the iconic long-horned Ankole cattle and exotic breeds. Your Cultural Immersion Includes: • The Milking Ritual: Experience the "udder to cup" journey firsthand and taste the richness of fresh, warm milk. • Cattle Grazing: Walk the land with the herd, learning the silent language between the Banyankole people and their cows. • Ancient Traditions: Gain deep insights into the sacred Ankole cattle traditions that have defined wealth and status for centuries. Daily Rhythms & Village Life Beyond the cattle, you are invited to weave yourself into the fabric of daily Ugandan life. • Household Chores: Join the family in cooking traditional meals over an open fire, fetching water, or gathering firewood. • Village Walks: As the sun sets, take a gentle stroll through the village to mingle with the neighbors and feel the heartbeat of the Rwetango community. • Wild Mornings: Take advantage of the proximity to Lake Mburo for a morning game drive, returning "home" just in time for a refreshing cup of cold farm milk. Why Your visit Matters This is Community Tourism at its most impactful. Your visit does more than just fill a photo album; it directly funds: 1. Education: Supporting the school fees and materials for the Barujwara grandchildren and neighbours. 2. Community Ecosystem: Boosting the local economy and preserving indigenous knowledge. 3. Lasting Bonds: You aren't just a guest; you are a friend. Most visitors leave with ties that last for generations. Beyond the legendary stories of the land, a visit to the Barujwara home offers a rare window into the meticulous world of Ankole craftsmanship through the hands of Mrs. Barujwara. A master artisan and a custodian of heritage, she is an expert in the intricate art of weaving traditional necklaces using beads and the specialized preservation of the Ebyanzi (wooden milk pots). Her expertise extends into the sacred realm of Ankole weddings, where she crafts exquisite cultural bride wear and ceremonial ornaments that have graced generations of local ceremonies. Visitors have the unique opportunity to watch her transform natural fibers and wood into functional art, providing a chance to carry home authentic, hand-crafted Ankole souvenirs that hold the true spirit and skill of the Rwetango community. "To visit Mzee Eriya is to walk back into a time where man, beast, and land lived as one. It is a refreshing return to what matters most: family, story, and nature." Know Before You Go 1. Cultural Etiquette (The "Okuzinduka" or Visiting): • Greetings are Key: In Ankole culture, greetings are not rushed. Always take a moment to ask Mzee Eriya and the family members "Agandi" (How are you?) or "Mwebare kutwakiira" (Thank you for receiving us). • The Right Hand: Use your right hand for giving and receiving items, and for eating. 2. Life on the Farm: • The Pace of Life: Rural life follows the rhythm of the sun and the cattle. Be prepared for a slower, more intentional pace. "African Time" is about presence, not just the clock. • Dietary Note: The diet is heavy on fresh dairy, matooke, meat and beans. If you have specific allergies (like lactose intolerance), please let the Rwetango Tourism Centre know in advance so the family can prepare. 3. Communication: • Language: While most members on the farm likely speak English, Mzee Eriya prefers Runyankole. Don't let this be a barrier—the universal language of a smile and a helping hand goes a long way. His sons and daughters will translate

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