National Museum of Gitega

The National Museum of Gitega is a museum in Burundi that displays ethnographic objects and historical artifacts within a single exhibition room in a traditionally designed building. The collection includes royal objects, weapons, household items, and other pieces that document the country's past.

The museum was founded in 1955 during Belgian colonial rule and remains the largest public museum institution in the country. Its creation reflected a growing interest in preserving the nation's cultural heritage during that era.

The museum displays royal court objects, traditional drums, clothing and weapons that reflect how Burundians lived and what they valued in their communities. These items show the importance of music and handcrafted goods in daily life.

The museum is located in Gitega and welcomes visitors on weekdays to explore the Burundian collection at their own pace. Allow time to view the exhibition properly, especially if you want to watch craftspeople demonstrating traditional techniques when available.

A section of the museum features demonstrations of traditional drum-making techniques performed by local craftspeople who have inherited these skills through generations. Watching these artisans work offers insight into methods that have remained largely unchanged for centuries.