Intenge

The intenge is classified as an idiophone and can be compared to the inzogera and the amayugi. This instrument is, however, known only from oral tradition concerning the monarchy; no pictures or examples have survived. The intenge was used during the ‘fire ritual’. Kings were supposed to make their own intenge and wore it around their waist to renew the sacred fire and thus protect the dynasty and ensure the king’s fertility. The last fire ritual is thought to have been held under King Yuhi V Musinga (1897-1931).

For more information consult the following publications edited by the RMCA:

• GANSEMANS, J. Les instruments de musique du Rwanda. Étude ethnomusicologique, Annales RMCA n° 127, 361 pp. + 102 photos
• Compact Disc :
  • Rujindiri, maître de l’inanga (fmd 186)
  • RWANDA : Polyphonie des Twa (fmd 196)
  • Musiques du Rwanda (fmd 206)

© KMMA/Jos GANSEMANS