Rwanda expands gorilla habitat as part of conservation drive

Rwanda hosted the 20th Kwita Izina gorilla naming ceremony on Friday, 5 September, at the foothills of Volcanoes National Park in Kinigi, Musanze District.

The event gathered government officials, diplomats, celebrities, conservation experts, and community members.

Distinguished guests included top government leaders and other prominent figures.

This year, 40 baby gorillas were named by a diverse group of international and local participants, including global leaders, celebrities, advocates, and conservationists. The group included 22 gorillas born in 2023 and 18 born between 2024 and 2025.

Prime Minister Nsengiyumva, in his remarks, reaffirmed Rwanda's commitment to conservation and community development. "Rwanda is honoured to be the custodian of these mountain gorillas, which are not only a global asset but also a source of pride and economic prosperity for our nation," he said. "As the gorilla families grow, we need to expand their habitat. Rwanda has embarked on an ambitious plan to expand Volcanoes National Park by almost 25 per cent to ensure a safe habitat for the next generation of gorillas."

Inspired by Rwanda's tradition of naming newborn gorillas, Kwita Izina has become a key national event since 2005, uniting local communities and international visitors. Over 20 years, 438 baby gorillas have been named.

Rwanda is represented in Bangladesh by Honorary Consul Mohammad Iqbal Hossain, Managing Director of PHP Family.