By Maria Batenga
Perched atop Nyarugenge Hill in Kigali, Rwanda, the Kandt House Museum presents a fascinating paradox. Once a symbol of colonial power, it now stands as a multifaceted treasure trove, housing tales of pre-colonial life, colonial imposition, and contemporary reinterpretation.
As a historical building and architectural masterpiece, the Kandt House offers a unique lens through which to explore Rwanda’s complex past and vibrant present.
It stands as a testament to history, culture, and architectural significance. Situated in Kigali, it holds immense historical value and serves as a poignant reminder of Rwanda’s past, particularly during the colonial era.
Originally known as the Natural History Museum, the Kandt House Museum was built in 1907 by Richard Kandt, the first German resident in Rwanda.
Its neo-German architectural style, characterized by a red clay tile roof, half-timbered facade, and verandas, stood in stark contrast to the traditional Rwandan huts it overlooked.
The house embodied the colonial ambition to reshape the landscape, both physically and culturally.
The building itself is a striking representation of German colonial architecture, characterized by its robust structure, high ceilings, and a blend of European and local design elements.
Constructed using traditional materials like brick and wood, the house showcases a fusion of European architectural style with Rwandan influences, displaying a unique blend of cultural integration.
The museum was initially used as Kandt’s residence but was later converted into a museum dedicated to natural history, anthropology, and cultural artifacts.
The interior design of the museum highlights various aspects of Rwandan history, displaying exhibits that encompass the country’s rich biodiversity, traditional crafts, cultural heritage, and the colonial past.
Visitors can explore exhibits featuring traditional Rwandan artifacts, ethnographic displays, geological specimens, and taxidermied animals, providing a comprehensive insight into Rwanda’s natural and cultural heritage.
Beyond its architectural significance, the Kandt House Museum holds historical importance in the context of Rwanda’s colonial past. During the colonial period, the building served as a central hub for administrative purposes, representing the seat of German authority in Rwanda.
Its historical significance lies in its association with Richard Kandt, who played a pivotal role in exploring and mapping Rwanda, contributing to the country’s early understanding and documentation.
In contemporary times, the Kandt House Museum stands as a symbol of Rwanda’s commitment to preserving its history and cultural heritage.
Its restoration and transformation into a museum demonstrate Rwanda’s efforts to honour its past while embracing progress and development.
However, the significance of the Kandt House Museum extends beyond its architectural beauty and historical value.
It serves as a platform for education, cultural exchange, and reflection, inviting visitors from around the world to engage with Rwanda’s history and cultural diversity.
The museum plays a crucial role in fostering dialogue about Rwanda’s past, encouraging reconciliation, and promoting cultural understanding among its visitors.
From natural history to human history
In 2004, the house was transformed into the Natural History Museum, showcasing Rwanda’s rich biodiversity.
However, in 2017, a pivotal shift occurred. In recognition of the building’s complex history and the need for a more nuanced narrative, it was renamed the Kandt House Museum.
The focus shifted from natural history to human history, delving into the pre-colonial past, the colonial experience, and Rwanda’s journey towards decolonization and self-determination.
The museum’s exhibits now tell a multifaceted story. The ground floor transports visitors to pre-colonial Rwanda, showcasing traditional life, social structures, and cultural practices through artifacts, dioramas, and multimedia presentations.
Visitors encounter the intricate beadwork and pottery that adorned daily life, witness the craftsmanship of traditional musical instruments, and learn about the intricate social tapestry woven by the Rwandan monarchy.
As one ascends the creaking wooden stairs, the narrative shifts. The second floor explores the colonial period, delving into Kandt’s role as an administrator and ethnographer.
Exhibits expose the brutality of colonial rule, including forced labor practices and the exploitation of natural resources.
However, they also acknowledge Kandt’s contributions to documenting Rwandan culture and languages, albeit within the colonial framework.
The Kandt House Museum doesn’t shy away from uncomfortable truths. Exhibits openly address the devastating impact of colonialism, including the exploitation of the Tutsi monarchy and the sowing of seeds of ethnic division.
This critical self-reflection serves as a vital step towards understanding the roots of conflict and fostering reconciliation.
The Kandt House Museum’s narrative doesn’t end with decolonization. The final section highlights Rwanda’s post-independence struggles and triumphs.
It celebrates the nation’s resilience in the face of the 1994 genocide and showcases its ongoing efforts towards unity and economic development.
A Bridge Between Past and Present
Beyond its historical significance, the Kandt House is also an architectural gem. The red clay tile roof, reminiscent of Bavarian villages, blends with the local Rwandan red clay walls, creating a harmonious fusion of European and African influences.
The spacious verandas, designed to capture the cool breezes off the hill, offer panoramic views of Kigali, while the wooden beams and exposed brickwork lend a sense of timeless charm.
The Kandt House Museum is more than just a museum; it’s a bridge between past and present. It compels visitors to confront the complexities of Rwanda’s history, offering a space for reflection, open dialogue, and critical engagement.
By shedding light on its colonial past, the museum empowers Rwandans to reclaim their own narrative and chart their future course.
The Kandt House Museum stands as a testament to the transformative power of storytelling. It reminds us that history is not static, but a dynamic tapestry woven from diverse threads.
By embracing its multifaceted past, Rwanda paves the way for a future built on inclusivity, understanding, and self-determination.
