Musanze District in Rwanda has unveiled an ambitious $75 million (approximately Rwf109.2 billion) plan to transform Buhanga kwa Gihanga, Rwanda's revered ancient coronation site, into a premier cultural tourism destination. This historically significant site, nestled in Barizo Village, Bikara Cell, Nkotsi Sector, is characterized by a sprawling 30-hectare natural forest and a vital water stream, embodying centuries of Rwandan heritage.

Buhanga kwa Gihanga holds profound historical importance, having served as the residence of Gihanga, the founding King of Rwanda. At the entrance to the forest lies the sacred Well of Nkotsi and Bikara, from which future kings would ritually draw water for pre-coronation cleansing. This very location also witnessed King Gihanga's inaugural royal ritual. Subsequent Rwandan kings, starting from Yuhi II Gahima, continued to conduct significant coronation ceremonies at this site, leaving behind enduring traces such as small caves and ancient giant trees that still stand as silent witnesses to these historical events.

The new project aims for a comprehensive transformation of the area into a state-of-the-art touristic site. Key components of this development include the construction of a stadium, the establishment of artificial lakes, and the meticulous preservation of the Buhanga natural forest, the Well of Nkotsi and Bikara, and the surrounding hills of Nyundo, Gitwa, Murama, and Masunzu. This extensive development is designed to enhance the site's appeal while safeguarding its natural and historical integrity.

A consultative meeting was convened in Musanze on Saturday, April 3, 2026, to discuss the project's implementation strategy. Claudien Nsengimana, the Mayor of Musanze District, addressed the national broadcaster RBA, extending an invitation to stakeholders to actively support the initiative. Nsengimana emphasized the call for investors to recognize and capitalize on the burgeoning opportunities within cultural tourism. Initial efforts have already seen Rwf40 million mobilized for the project on the day of the meeting, with further discussions planned to refine the implementation framework.

Herman Micomyiza, Executive Secretary of Nkotsi Sector, highlighted the symbolic significance of the project, explaining that a stadium named 'Ubudaheranwa', meaning resilience, will be constructed. This name reflects a restored history of unity inherited from King Gihanga, a unity that was disrupted by colonialists but has since been reclaimed. Researchers also underscored the project's national importance and potential. Justine Uzamukunda, a researcher, stressed that a deep understanding of the culture and history of Nkotsi and Bikara is fundamental for Rwanda to fully leverage its cultural tourism potential.

Lt Col (Rtd) Gerard Nyirimanzi, a historian, lauded the project as an excellent idea that warrants national-level implementation, suggesting that it could complement existing tourism attractions, allowing visitors who come to see gorillas to also explore Buhanga kwa Gihanga. Vedaste Ngarambe, another researcher, advocated for the creation of an open-air museum at the site, where exhibits are displayed outdoors across a large area, recreating historical settings and demonstrating past ways of life. Ngarambe expressed optimism that the site could achieve international recognition, drawing parallels to the fame of the Egyptian pyramids. The Ministry of National Unity and Civic Engagement has already recognized Buhanga kwa Gihanga's significance, classifying it among 20 key cultural heritage sites.