The Cigohwa, symbol of human presence and power among the Rega and Shi

This plant is used in traditional ritual among the Rega and the Batwa (PYGMEES). The Rega and Batwa are two communities who live around the ethnobotanical garden of Kivu, a relic of the ancient mountain forest of the PNKB. This species is planted on the grave of a customary chief and also symbolizes the human presence in mountainous Kivu. Due to the extraordinary quality of its wood which is rarely attacked by insects and its flexibility, the plant is widely used in traditional crafts in DR Congo.