Kwita Izina 2025: A Celebration of Conservation, Culture, and Community.

Rwanda’s commitment to conservation took center stage once again during the 20th Kwita Izina Gorilla Naming Ceremony, held on September 5 in Kinigi, Musanze District. Rich in cultural and environmental meaning, the annual event was marked by a powerful message from Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva, who shared key developments in the country’s conservation journey.

In his speech, the Prime Minister announced that Rwanda plans to expand the Volcanoes National Park by nearly 25%. This move aims to provide a safer and larger habitat for mountain gorillas, helping to protect future generations of this endangered species. He also praised the efforts of local communities who have played a vital role in preserving both wildlife and cultural heritage. He highlighted the importance of tradition, saying, “In Rwandan culture, naming a child is not just a formality, but an act of love, an act of commitment and hope, done in the presence of family and friends who pledge to support that child’s future. Today, we carry forward this tradition with the same spirit.”

The 2025 ceremony saw 40 baby gorillas receive meaningful names, bringing the total number named since the tradition began in 2005 to 438. The names given this year reflected themes such as unity, resilience, and environmental protection. Rwanda Development Board (RDB) CEO Jean Guy Afrika also addressed the audience, linking wildlife conservation to community empowerment and national economic transformation.

The impact of tourism, especially gorilla tourism, remains significant. In 2024 alone, tourism generated $647 million, with over $200 million coming from gorilla trekking. Rwanda also celebrated one of its biggest conservation milestones this year by successfully translocating 70 rhinos considered the largest such effort globally.

Kwita Izina has grown into a global event with local roots. It not only celebrates Rwanda’s growing gorilla families but also highlights the country’s leadership in sustainable conservation. This year’s ceremony was attended by high-profile guests, including former Arsenal defender Bacary Sagna, former Atlético Madrid player Luis García, Malaysian royal Tunku Ali Ehsan, Professor Senait Fisseha, and Sung-Hyup Kim, Director General of the Global Green Growth Institute. Their presence added international attention and prestige to the event.

First Lady Jeannette Kagame also graced the ceremony, which brought together government officials, conservationists, celebrities, business leaders, sports icons, and thousands of local residents. The vibrant gathering sent a clear message: Rwanda continues to lead by example in conservation, blending tradition, modern leadership, and global cooperation.