Bakiga
“People of the mountains” — farmers of the terraced highlands.
Our story
A community rooted in heritage.
From the terraced hills of Kigezi to the heart of New England — who we are, where we come from, and what guides us forward.
Who we are
Roots in the hills of Kigezi.
The Banyakigezi are people whose roots trace to the historic Kigezi region of southwestern Uganda — a land of terraced hills long known for remarkable resilience, strong family values, educational achievement, entrepreneurship, and service to society.
The Community of Banyakigezi in Boston was established to unite, support, and empower people with roots in Kigezi and their families throughout New England. We are a platform for fellowship, cultural preservation, mentorship, leadership development, professional networking, and community engagement.
More than anything, COB exists to help members thrive socially, professionally, and economically in Massachusetts and the United States — creating pathways for success for both current and future generations.
The historic region of Kigezi
Southwestern Uganda — a land of terraced hills, resilience, and service.
- 6
- Kigezi districts
- 1
- growing community
- ∞
- shared ambition
A rich, inclusive heritage
Many communities, one identity.
The Kigezi region is home to diverse communities and shares deep historical and cultural ties with neighboring Ankole and Rwanda — connections that have shaped a heritage that is both rich and welcoming.
Bafumbira
Communities of the Kisoro highlands near the volcanoes.
Bahororo
Carrying ties that bridge Kigezi and neighboring Ankole.
Batwa
Among the region's oldest and most enduring communities.
Together with deep ties to neighboring Ankole and Rwanda, these communities form a heritage that is both rich and welcoming — and it continues to shape the identity of the Banyakigezi today.
What guides us
Vision & Mission.
Vision
To transform shared heritage into opportunity, leadership, and lasting impact.
Mission
To bring together the people of Kigezi and their families to build networks of trust, mentorship, friendship, and opportunity that enable members to flourish socially, professionally, and economically while contributing to the greater good.
When one member succeeds, the entire community is strengthened.
The belief at the heart of COB