Nshenyi Cultural Village Champions the Preservation of Ankole Culture

Sitting on 420 acres of pristine land, Nshenyi Cultural Village is the ultimate destination for those seeking solace, cultural immersion, and a deep connection to Uganda’s heritage.

This cultural haven located in Kitwe village, Ntungamo district offers visitors a firsthand experience of the traditional lifestyle of the Banyankole people.

From the moment visitors arrive, they are greeted by nature in its full glory-untamed, serene, and breathtaking.

One of the most striking sights is the majestic herd of long-horned Ankole cattle roaming freely across the farm.

Here, guests have the opportunity to participate in on-farm milking activities, experiencing the deep-rooted cattle-keeping tradition that defines the Bahima people.

Notably, the farm boasts atleast a hundreds traditional long-horned cows, each milked cow produces at least six liters of milk per milking session. The Friesian cattle are also kept at the farm, the milk got from these has supported the establishment of a yoghurt processing plant.

Hon. Mary Mugyenyi, the proprietor of Nshenyi Cultural Village, emphasizes the significance of Ankole cattle in preserving Ankole cultural heritage.

She also explains that the milk content from these traditional cows is much richer compared to Friesian cattle, particularly in its high butter content. 

“The idea is to promote our identity and preserve it,” she says.

“One thing that makes us proud of who we are is the Ankole cattle. It is a unique characteristic of our culture, and I would like to see people re-embracing their traditions and way of life.”

Beyond cattle rearing, Nshenyi Cultural Village offers a variety of enriching experiences that transport visitors back in time.

Guests can engage in traditional Banyankole music and dance, a vibrant expression of their spirit and history.

They can also take part in milk processing, where they learn the intricate methods used to transform fresh milk into butter, ghee, and other dairy products.

For those seeking adventure, an uphill hike to visit local farmers who harvest honey from caves and rocks provides an extraordinary glimpse into indigenous beekeeping practices.

Additionally, visitors can learn about traditional local brew making, homestead crop cultivation and food processing, gaining insights into the agricultural practices that have sustained the Banyankole people for generations.

Nshenyi Cultural Village also welcomes school visits, allowing young learners to immerse themselves in cultural education and hands-on farming experiences. 

Eunice Tworekirwe, the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities' Principal Communications Officer notes that the “cross-cutting nature” of agro-tourism and its potential links with other sectors make it an attractive option for uganda.

"It has always been the mission of the tourism ministry to diversify the tourism product offering. The Agro-Tourism product allows tourists to engage in activities such as farm tours, harvesting, and farm-to-table dining, creating authentic and sustainable travel experiences."