Age: 72
Location: Kasheija
Jovanisi, a respected Mutwa elder, leads the tree planting and resource committee. She works with 12
Batwa members who collect wildlings from the forest. She describes conservation work not just as a
task but as a way of reconnecting with her heritage and the places her ancestors treasured.
Before joining the trainings, she felt neglected along with her community. Learning new skills in tree
management has restored her confidence and her sense of belonging in a space from which the Batwa
were once excluded.
Quote: “As I collect wildlings, I pass through our cultural sites. It reconnects me to my
ancestors and reminds me why we must protect Bwindi. When our trees grow, we will
have medicine and wild food again.”
