Butare: The Cultural Heart of Rwanda

• HelloMuraho
  [moo-rah-ho]
• GoodbyeMurabeho
  [moo-rah-beh-ho]
• YesYego
  [ye-go]
• NoOya
  [oh-ya]
• Please/You're welcomeKomeza
  [ko-meh-za]
• Thank youMurakoze
  [moo-rah-ko-zeh]
• Excuse me/SorryNdasubirwaho
  [ndah-soo-beer-wa-ho]
• How are you?Amakuru?
  [ah-mah-koo-ro]
• Fine. And you?Ni meza. Wewe?
  [nee meh-za. way-way]
• Do you speak English?Mwakoresheje ikinyarwanda?
  [mwa-koh-reh-sheh-je ee-kee-nya-rwan-da]
• I don't understandNtumva
  [ntoom-va]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNifuza kureba ijambo, komeza
  [nee-foo-zah koo-reh-ba ee-jam-bo, ko-meh-za]
• I don't eat meatSinuka ibiryo by'ibiryo
  [see-noo-kah ee-beer-yo bee-beer-yo]
• Cheers!Amahoro!
  [ah-ma-ho-ro]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNifuza kugaruka, komeza
  [nee-foo-zah koo-ga-roo-kah, ko-meh-za]

• Help!Umwisanzure!
  [oom-wee-san-zoo-reh]
• Go away!Bibuka!
  [bee-boo-kah]
• Call the Police!Simbura Polisi!
  [seem-boo-rah poh-lee-see]
• Call a doctor!Simbura dokotora!
  [seem-boo-rah doh-koh-toh-rah]
• I'm lostNdi muri rusange
  [ndee moo-ree roo-sang-ge]
• I'm illNdi mwirabuze
  [ndee mwee-rah-boo-zeh]

• I'd like to buy...Nifuza kugura...
  [nee-foo-zah koo-goo-ra]
• I'm just lookingNanze nsanga
  [nah-nzeh n-sang-ga]
• How much is it?Ni iki gihe?
  [nee ee-kee gee-he]
• That's too expensiveIyi ni y'icyenda
  [ee-yee nee ee-chyen-da]
• Can you lower the price?Wibaze koherereza isoko?
  [wee-ba-zeh koh-heh-reh-reh-za ee-so-ko]

• What time is it?Ni gihehe?
  [nee gee-heh-heh]
• It's one o'clockNi saa imwe
  [nee sah eem-weh]
• Half past (10)Saa inkumi n'icyenda
  [sah een-koo-mee nee-chee-yen-da]
• MorningIgisibo
  [ee-gee-see-bo]
• AfternoonIgihembwe
  [ee-gee-hem-bweh]
• EveningIgisibo
  [ee-gee-see-bo]
• YesterdayEjo
  [eh-joh]
• TodayUyu munsi
  [oo-yoo moon-see]
• TomorrowEjo hazaza
  [eh-joh ha-za-za]
• 1Rimwe
  [ree-mweh]
• 2Kabiri
  [kah-bee-ree]
• 3Gatatu
  [ga-ta-too]
• 4Kane
  [kah-neh]
• 5Gatanu
  [ga-ta-noo]
• 6Gatandatu
  [ga-tan-da-too]
• 7Kagatandatu
  [kah-ga-tan-da-too]
• 8Munani
  [moo-nah-nee]
• 9Icyenda
  [ee-chee-yen-da]
• 10Icumi
  [ee-choo-mee]

• Where's a/the...?Aho ari...?
  [ah-ho ah-ree]
• What's the address?Icyabasobanuye ni iki?
  [ee-chya-bah-so-bah-noo-yeah nee ee-kee]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Wibaze kanjyi (muri iki gishushanyo)?
  [wee-ba-zeh kan-jee (moo-ree ee-kee gee-shoo-shan-yo)]
• When's the next (bus)?Igihe cy'icyumweru kijyana?
  [ee-gee-he chee-chee-oom-weh-ro kee-jyah-nah]
• A ticket (to ....)Igishoro (kuri ....)
  [ee-gee-sho-ro koo-ree]

Butare, originally known as Astrida, was established during the German colonial period in the early 20th century. After World War I, it came under Belgian control. The city was named after Queen Astrid of Belgium, reflecting the European influence that shaped its early development.

Butare has long been considered the intellectual heart of Rwanda. In 1963, the National University of Rwanda was established here, fostering a culture of academic excellence. This institution has produced many of the country's leaders in various fields and remains a pivotal center for higher education in Rwanda.

The Ethnographic Museum, formerly known as the National Museum of Rwanda, was inaugurated in 1989 and houses one of the finest collections of ethnographic artifacts on the African continent. The museum offers an in-depth look at Rwandan culture, history, and traditions through its extensive exhibits.

Butare was significantly impacted during the 1994 Rwandan Genocide. Initially a safe haven, it quickly became the scene of tragic massacres. The city's university and hospitals turned into places of horror, reflecting the widespread atrocities that occurred throughout the country. Today, Butare is a place of remembrance and education about this dark chapter in Rwanda’s history.

Post-genocide, Butare has seen significant efforts towards rehabilitation and development. The city has rebuilt its educational institutions and infrastructure. Butare's revival is a testament to the resilience and determination of its residents. Modern Butare is a vibrant, growing city that continues to honor its past while looking towards the future.

Butare hosts various cultural festivals that celebrate Rwandan traditions and heritage. The Ingoma Nshya women's drumming group, based in Butare, is renowned for its performances and has played a significant role in promoting cultural expression and unity. The city’s festivals are a colorful and vibrant display of Rwandan music, dance, and art.

The region surrounding Butare is known for its fertile land and agricultural productivity. Coffee and tea plantations are prominent, contributing significantly to the local economy. Butare's markets are bustling with fresh produce, reflecting the importance of agriculture in daily life and commerce.

Butare, also known as Huye, is located in the southern part of Rwanda. The nearest international airport is Kigali International Airport, approximately 135 kilometers away. From Kigali, you can take a bus, taxi, or rent a car to reach Butare. The journey typically takes around 2 to 3 hours by road. Regular bus services are provided by companies like Volcano Express and Horizon Express, offering a comfortable and affordable ride.

Within Butare, local transportation options include motorcycles (motos), taxis, and buses. Motos are a quick and affordable way to get around, but always negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Taxis are available and can be hired for longer trips. Public buses and minibuses operate within the city and connect to nearby towns and villages. Walking is also a feasible option for exploring the city center and nearby attractions.

The official currency in Rwanda is the Rwandan Franc (RWF). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available in Butare, but make sure to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage. Currency exchange services are available in banks and some hotels.

Butare is generally safe for tourists, but it is always best to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places like markets. While Butare does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Butare has a local police station and medical facilities, including the University Teaching Hospital of Butare. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches or mosques, dress conservatively and remove your shoes when required. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a friendly smile. Saying 'Muraho' (Hello) is a good way to start a conversation. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite. Always wash your hands before eating, as it is a common practice.

To experience Butare like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Rwandan goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the National Museum of Rwanda for a deep dive into the country's history and cultural heritage. For a taste of local cuisine, try dishes like 'Isombe' (cassava leaves) and 'Ugali' (maize porridge) at local restaurants.