HABITAT

The Rwandan traditional habitat, with the exception of the royal residences and some concessions observed in some North and north-eastern regions (notably, among the Bahima shepherds), were characterized at the same time, by scattered groups of dwellings (ingo) and other dwellings grouped by lineage. In a general manner, members of a paternal minor lineage lived on the same hill.

The Rwandans used to set up their dwellings where the oracle had found a favorable location. With this respect the main dwelling place was always dedicated to a named ancestor of the lineage. Moreover, the head of the house would generally build sanctuaries at the back court yard, dedicated to the cult of the ancestors. Rwandans with humble means had simple tiny huts (indaro) around which members of their families gathered during the ceremonies and when they placed offerings destined to calm the spit of their forefathers. Richer families used to build veritable huts, as dignified as their forefathers had been. (Read more)