The 21st Kwita Izina ceremony in Kinigi celebrated mountain gorilla conservation with music, celebrity namers, and a park expansion announcement.
The 21st Kwita Izina gorilla naming ceremony took place in Kinigi on Friday, with 22 baby mountain gorillas receiving names. The event, attended by Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva as Guest of Honour, blended conservation efforts with cultural performances by Rwandan artists like The Ben and Riderman, alongside international guests. High-profile figures from business, sport, and entertainment, including Eng. Ahmed Sadek Elsewedy, former Miss Belgium Keza Johanna Ameloot, and footballer Mamadou Sakho, participated as namers, bestowing names with cultural significance onto the newborns.
Prime Minister Nsengiyumva announced that Rwanda is expanding Volcanoes National Park to accommodate its growing mountain gorilla population. He stated that communities affected by this expansion will benefit from conservation efforts, linking habitat growth to local development. Northern Province Governor Maurice Mugabowagahunde welcomed participants, emphasizing Kwita Izina's role in celebrating natural heritage, raising biodiversity awareness, and supporting community and national development through the park.
The ceremony highlighted Rwanda's commitment to conservation, drawing global attention through celebrity involvement and cultural displays. Figures like UN Tourism Secretary-General Shaikha Al Nuwais and Rio Tinto Chairman Dominic Barton participated, underscoring the international significance of the event. The gathering demonstrated how Kwita Izina has evolved into a global celebration of music, culture, and conservation, attracting visitors and prominent personalities worldwide.
Why it mattersThe naming ceremony and park expansion directly impact farmers through potential land use changes and community benefit programs linked to conservation.
Read in the ASJ desk →