Traditions of Gitega
The cultural capital of Burundi, home of the royal drummers, who beat out a ritual dance of the old kingdom.
Gitega, in the central highlands, was the seat of the Burundian kings and is today the political capital. The royal drummers, the Abatimbo, play sacred drums, ingoma, in a ceremony that was once reserved for the king. The ritual of the drums is recognised by UNESCO.
The royal drums
A dozen men carry drums on their heads and beat them in a rhythm, leaping and twirling in a ritual dance. The drums were once symbols of royal power and were kept in sacred groves, and a drum was never to be beaten without the king. Today the drummers perform at celebrations and national events.
At the table
Beans, plantains, sweet potatoes and cassava are the staples, with fish from Lake Tanganyika. Ibiharage, beans with sauce, and brochettes, are eaten at family gatherings. Banana beer, urwarwa, and sorghum beer are shared in a calabash with reed straws. Visitors are welcomed with a shared drink, and refusing it outright is thought impolite.
Signature traditions of Gitega
Also part of it, and being written: Drummers of Burundi (The royal drums.), Ubuhake (The cattle customs.), Urwagwa (The banana beer.).
A trail idea for Gitega
- Gitega National Museum See drums and baskets.
- Gishora drum sanctuary Meet the drummers.
- Local market Taste beans and plantains.
Written by the EveryParampara desk with AI assistance. Opening hours, markets and festival dates change; check locally before travelling. Customs differ from place to place and family to family. If this is your tradition and we have it wrong, tell us.
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