The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) is pleased to announce the 19th Kwita Izina ceremony on Friday 1 September 2023.The “Kwita Izina” ceremony is a significant event in Rwanda that involves the naming of baby gorillas in the month of September every year. The event was initially introduced in 2005 when a group of gorilla newborns was given names. The baby gorillas are given names basing on the circumstances of their birth, what they are expected of in the future plus the place where they were produced from.
The Kwita Izina event takes place on the foothills of Volcanoes national park in Kinigi, Musanze district which is a home to the endangered mountain gorillas in Rwanda and it draws the attention of different people like the tourists, conservationists, researchers plus the surrounding locals who come to witness the experience. This ceremony is part of Rwanda’s efforts to promote conservation and raise awareness about the importance of protecting the endangered mountain gorillas in the region.
Facts about the Kwita Izina ceremony
Purpose
The main purpose of the Kwita Izina ceremony is to celebrate the successful conservation efforts in Rwanda that have led to an increase in the mountain gorilla population. It’s also a way to raise awareness about the importance of preserving the gorilla habitat and the broader environment.
Naming of Baby Gorillas
During the ceremony, newly born baby gorillas are given names. The names are usually chosen by Rwandan officials, conservationists, and sometimes even international celebrities. Each name has a specific meaning, often related to the gorilla’s behavior, appearance, or the circumstances of its birth. On 1st September 2023, 23 baby mountain gorillas born in the last 12 months will be named.
Community Involvement
The Kwita Izina ceremony is not just a formal event; it involves the local communities as well. It’s a way to show the communities that their participation in conservation efforts is valued and that their involvement plays a crucial role in the success of these initiatives.
Tourism and Conservation
Rwanda has become a popular destination for gorilla tourism. Every day tourists can go on a Rwanda safari into the mountains to observe these incredible creatures in their natural habitat at a fee of US$1500 for the foreign non residents. The revenue generated from tourism helps fund conservation efforts and provides economic benefits to local communities.
Global Attention
The Kwita Izina ceremony has gained international attention and has become a symbol of Rwanda’s commitment to environmental conservation. It’s also a platform to highlight the importance of global collaboration in protecting endangered species.
Over the last fifteen years, more than 350 mountain gorillas have been named. Today, Kwita Izina forms part of an ambitious strategy to preserve Rwanda’s natural heritage and further expand the role of tourism in the country’s transformation. As a result of the naming ceremony, Rwandans from all walks of life understand the intrinsic value of gorillas and their contribution to the country’s economic prosperity.