Did you know that this building behind me once housed Rwanda’s first colonial governor? This is the Kandt House Museum. It stands as a testament to Rwanda’s complex history. Let me guide you through the captivating story of this place.
The Kandt House Museum was named after Richard Kandt. He was the first colonial governor of Rwanda, representing Germany in the early 1900s. The museum building itself dates back to 1908. It is the only remaining historical building from that era. Imagine Kigali back then. It was just beginning to take shape as a colonial capital.
Originally, the location where we are now was chosen by Richard Kandt in 1907. He chose it as the German colonial capital of Rwanda. It was initially called Nyarugenge. But colonialists found it hard to pronounce, so they changed it to Kigali in 1908. However, the name Kigali was given in the 14th century by King Cyirima I Rugwe. He named what we know today as Mount Kigali.
In 2004, the building was renovated. It became the Natural History Museum. It showcased Rwanda’s natural resources. Then, in 2017, it was renamed the Kandt House Museum. A new exhibition was added. It showed Rwanda’s history before and during German colonization.
Inside, the Kandt House Museum is divided into three main sections. The first section unveils Rwandan life before colonization. It shows the social, economic, and political aspects of that time. The second section explores Rwanda’s experience during the colonial period. From the Berlin Conference in 1884, Germany ruled Rwanda until 1916. Then, Belgium took over after World War I. Richard Kandt’s life and work are covered in detail in this section. The third part delves into the history of Kigali. It explores the city before, during, and after the colonial era. Kigali became the capital city upon independence in 1962.
You can also see live reptiles here. There are Nile crocodiles and snakes. You may spot a black mamba, python, or cobra. These are all found in the Rwandan countryside. The museum strives to represent the evolution of animals and plants. It explains how living things depend on their environment.
The Kandt House Museum is managed by the Institute of National Museums of Rwanda. It is one of eight museums in Rwanda. It aims to promote interest in science and history. It gives visitors a deeper understanding of Rwanda.
Visiting the Kandt House Museum provides insights into Rwanda’s journey. It highlights the country’s culture and politics. As you leave, consider the layers of history within these walls. They serve as a reminder of Rwanda’s past. They also highlight its journey toward the future.