The Batwa, also known as Twa or Pygmies, are an indigenous group in the African Great Lakes region, historically living in the forests of Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. They are recognized as one of the oldest populations in the region. Traditionally hunter-gatherers, the Batwa were displaced from their forest homes due to conservation efforts and development, impacting their livelihoods, culture, and spiritual practices.