Isambaza by Rwanda MuseumsRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy
Fishing in Rwanda
In the past, fishing in Rwanda was limited to a small group of people who lived near lakes and large rivers. Their catches were modest, and they consumed everything they caught within their families, without selling any fish.
Fishing with net by Rwanda MuseumsRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy
Eating fish
Fish consumption in Rwanda only gained traction after the 1970s, when a fishing project introduced new methods for catching, processing, preserving, & preparing fish. This initiative spread knowledge across the country, leading to a significant expansion of the fishing industry.
Spinning Rod by Rwanda MuseumsRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy
Fishing methods
Before the adoption of modern fishing methods, Rwandans relied on traditional techniques, employing fishing nets, hoop nets, and small boats.
They also utilized natural resources, gathering leaves or bark from specific trees, pounding them, and dispersing them into the water.
The mixture of the pound leaves or tree bark produced a paralyzing effect on the fish after a couple of hours leaving them floating on the surface. The hard work was done for the fishermen which means they only had to pick up the fish from the surface.
Fishing instruments
Paddles: This wooden pole with a flat blade at one end is used to move a small boat, the indespensable equipment while fishing
Fish keepnet (2)Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy
Fishing keepnets
Made from grass, the keepnets were traps constructed in a cone shape which allowed fish to enter easily but prevented them from exiting. These became less prevalent as they were replaced by modern fishing nets
Canoe paddling by Rwanda MuseumsRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy
Fishing songs - Amasare
When Rwandans do work that requires a lot of effort, they accompany it with songs. Fishing songs Amasare is part of the Rwandan literature used by fishermen while fishing and celebrating the harvest.
Fishing boats by Rwanda MuseumsRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy
Did you know that there are two types of fishing songs?
Rwandan fishing traditions are rich with song. "Rugina" are poetic chants, traditionally sung a cappella by elder fishermen. In contrast, "Rugoma" are lively, call-and-response songs popular with younger generations.
The song in the audio is of the ''Rugoma'' category.
Content development: Chantal Umuhoza
Curatorial layout: Chantal Umuhoza
References:
- Rwanda its Cultural Heritage. Past and Present
- Rwanda, a journey through the National Museum collections; Celestin Kanimba Misago & Thierry Mesas
