After yet another tea experience in Jenda Sector, I proceeded to the picturesque hills of Bigogwe. Upon arrival, I rolled up my sleeves and tested my milking skills.
Traditionally, cows are prized possessions. They symbolize wealth. In today’s cash-driven economy, cattle ownership continues to upgrade standards of living. Beef and dairy products are sought after consumables. Horns, hoofs and hides are important raw materials in the manufacturing industry.
Local communities have been using cow dung as manure for a long time. Lately, what could easily be discarded as waste has become a source of biogas. Imigongo artists, on the other hand, use it to make decor items. Apart from occupying a prestigious position in the Rwandan culture, cows open up multiple streams of income.
Every thing a cow produces turns into gold. However, milk’s symbolic and nutritional value transcends all. Different consumer trends come and go, but the consumption of milk has stood the test of time. The milk-drinking culture is here to stay.
While in Nyabihu, I rediscovered my tea plucking and cow milking touch. After those two fulfilling excursions in Jenda and Bigogwe sectors respectively, I left for Rubavu. Initially, the plan was to spend a night in Nyabihu. However, I was yearning for a weekend getaway on the shore of Lake Kivu.
Speaking of Lake Kivu, the next five sub destinations in this expedition are lined up along the Kivu Belt. Spoiler alert: the transformation of the lakeside strip into a tourism hotspot is gaining traction. Stay tuned.