Author: Wycliffe Nyamasege

Speaking at the dinner, hosted in Kigali a day after the gorilla naming ceremony in Kinigi, the Head of State underscored Rwanda’s unique model of sharing tourism benefits with local residents.

“In Rwanda, 10% of tourism revenue goes directly to the communities living around our parks. It’s not just support – it’s an incentive to protect and sustain our shared heritage,” President Kagame said.

“To our friends and partners: Rwanda is your home. You are always welcome,” he added.

This year’s Kwita Izina marked two decades of the celebrated conservation tradition, with 40 baby gorillas named, bringing the total since 2005 to 438.

The ceremony drew global icons, including American film director Michael Bay, Oscar-winning actress Michelle Yeoh Todt, Nigerian Afropop star Yemi Alade, former Arsenal and PSG football legends Bacary Sagna and Javier Pastore, and dignitaries from conservation organisations worldwide.

Held at the foothills of Volcanoes National Park in Musanze District, the colourful event was presided over by Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva and graced by First Lady Jeannette Kagame. It featured traditional performances and strong community participation, highlighting the deep cultural roots of Rwanda’s conservation journey.

Tourism remains a pillar of Rwanda’s economy, with $647 million generated in 2024, including over $200 million from gorilla trekking alone.

Rwanda Development Board (RDB) CEO Jean-Guy Afrika described Kwita Izina as a symbol of the country’s dedication to protecting its natural heritage and uplifting communities, with revenues from tourism financing more than 1,200 community projects.

At the event, Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva affirmed plans to expand Volcanoes National Park by nearly 25 per cent, ensuring a secure future for its growing mountain gorilla population.

The government plans to increase the park’s size from its current 160 square kilometres by approximately 37.4 square kilometres (3,740 hectares), a move expected to support a 15-20% increase in the gorilla population and reduce infant mortality by 50%.

The proximity between Bujumbura and eastern DRC areas, such as the city of Uvira, allows for transport via Lake Tanganyika crossings or northern road routes.

Since 2023, Burundian and DRC forces have been jointly combating the M23 rebel group. Beyond receiving arms, these forces have undergone training to help reclaim territories lost in North and South Kivu provinces.

The fighting intensified in January and February 2025, forcing DRC and Burundian troops to retreat from strategic towns, including Goma and Bukavu, relocating to Uvira and surrounding areas.

In March 2025, President Évariste Ndayishimiye launched a four-month military training exercise at Mabanda, Mwaro, Bururi, and Mutukura, preparing 10,000 soldiers for deployment to eastern DRC.

According to Africa Intelligence, cargo planes carrying rockets and ammunition from Sudan and Tripoli, Libya, have been landing at Bujumbura Airport for months, with the supplies then offloaded and transported by truck to Uvira under the cover of night.

The DRC government also mobilised aircraft, including Serve Air planes owned by Indian businessman Harish Jagtani, and five from Mont Gabaon operated by Elie Akilimali Joseph, to transport military equipment and food from Kinshasa to Bujumbura, before onward delivery to Uvira.

Two Ilyushin Il-76 aircraft from Baku landed at Bujumbura Airport in April and August 2025, carrying heavy and light weaponry, including RPG-7s and 7.62mm machine guns. These shipments followed a procurement agreement signed in September 2024 between Burundi’s government and Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Defence.

On September 1, 2025, another Ilyushin Il-76 delivered additional heavy weapons and ammunition for DRC forces, which were then dispatched to South Kivu to support operations against M23.

As the conflict drags on, Bujumbura’s role as a logistical hub highlights Burundi’s direct involvement in supplying arms and military support to the fight against M23, raising serious concerns about the country’s responsibility in prolonging instability in eastern DRC.

Under the theme “Empowering Global South, Navigating Global Changes,” the forum is far more than another international gathering. It is a platform where journalists, scholars, policymakers and entrepreneurs from the Global South are redefining how their stories are told in a world where Western media still dominates the narrative.

From Africa to Asia and Latin America, participants converged to push for greater cooperation in shaping global governance. East African representatives, including those from Rwanda and Uganda, joined peers from across the Global South in calling for stronger information-sharing and a unified approach to addressing global challenges.

Speakers stressed that the Global South can no longer afford to be an audience to narratives set elsewhere. Instead, it must take charge of telling its own story, highlighting not just its struggles but its progress, innovations and aspirations.

Artificial intelligence was one of the most animated topics. Delegates shared views on how AI is reshaping the media and societies, offering opportunities for faster reporting and broader reach, but also posing risks of misinformation and job losses.

Rather than rejecting the technology, many argued for embracing it strategically, developing local solutions, regulating its use and turning AI into a tool for good. Workshops highlighted how AI can be used to preserve cultural heritage, enhance fact-checking and make smaller media outlets more competitive on the global stage.

The choice of Yunnan as the venue carried special symbolism. Known for its cultural diversity and stunning landscapes, the province reflects the richness and complexity of the Global South itself, multi-ethnic, multi-lingual and positioned at the crossroads of Asia.

For many delegates, Kunming offered not just a picturesque backdrop but also an environment that embodied the forum’s mission: dialogue, exchange and unity amid diversity.

The forum was co-hosted by Xinhua News Agency, together with the CPC Yunnan Provincial Committee and the People’s Government of Yunnan Province. Xinhua’s president, Fu Hua, pledged the agency’s readiness to partner with Global South media in telling authentic stories and amplifying the region’s voice in international discourse.

The message was clear: through cooperation, research, and stronger communication networks, the Global South can move from the margins of global storytelling to the center.

As the forum continues, participants are focused on turning dialogue into action, whether by forging cross-border partnerships, launching collaborative projects or using technology to close the information gap.

The Global South Media and Think Tank Forum is not just a meeting of minds in Kunming. It is a step toward a future where the Global South speaks for itself, louder, clearer, and together.

The event brought together leaders from the entertainment, sports, business, science, and conservation sectors, reflecting the growing global recognition of Rwanda’s conservation efforts. Distinguished guests included Rwanda’s First Lady, Jeannette Kagame; Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva; Rwanda Development Board CEO Jean Guy Afrika; and the Governor of the Northern Province, Maurice Mugabowagahunde.

This year, 40 baby gorillas were named, with several names chosen by prominent figures from around the world. International celebrities and global leaders—ranging from actors and musicians to sports icons and conservation advocates—participated in the naming, using their influence to shine a spotlight on Rwanda’s mountain gorillas and the country’s commitment to wildlife protection.

Among the named gorillas were 18 born in 2024, whose naming had been delayed due to the Marburg virus outbreak in Rwanda. Families represented at the ceremony included Muhoza, Kwitonda, Matsiko Cyuzuzo, Kwisanga, Pablo, and others, highlighting the thriving diversity of Rwanda’s mountain gorilla population.

Kwita Izina, which means “to give a name” in Kinyarwanda, is more than a symbolic gesture. It celebrates Rwanda’s conservation achievements, the essential role of local communities in protecting biodiversity, and the survival story of endangered mountain gorillas.

Below is the full list of the 40 named gorillas and the meaning behind their names:

{{1. Mushumbamwiza
}}

Mushumbamwiza is a male baby gorilla from the Hirwa family, born on October 19, 2024, to Igihembo. His name means “good shepherd” and was given by Alliance Umwizerwa, Gorilla Research Assistant at the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.

{{2. Unguka
}}

Unguka is a male from the Matsiko Cyuzuzo family, born on July 26, 2024, to Ruhuka. His name means “gain.” He was named by Dr. Gaspard Nzayisenga, a field veterinarian with Gorilla Doctors.

{{3. Rufatiro
}}

Rufatiro is a male from the Matsiko Cyuzuzo family, born on November 2, 2024, to Umwe. His name means “foundation.” He was named by Dieudonné Gato, Ranger, Volcanoes National Park.

{{4. Amahitamo
}}

Amahitamo is a male from the Mutobo family, born on April 27, 2024, to Ishyaka. His name means “choice.” He was named by Théogène Bimenyimana, Head Tracker, Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.

{{5. Tsinda
}}

Tsinda, whose sex is unknown, is from the Hirwa family, born on June 1, 2025, to Magayane. The name means “win.” Tsinda was named by Brenda Umutoni, a ranger at Volcanoes National Park.

{{6. Atete
}}

Atete is a female from the Mutobo family, born on September 28, 2023, to Akariza. Her name means “to receive affection.” She was named by Leonard Nsengiyumva, Data Technician, Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.

{{7. Umutoni
}}

Umutoni is a female from the Kwitonda family, born on April 6, 2024, to Rwunguko. Her name means “favourite.” She was named by Jean Marie Vianney Zirimwabagabo, Ranger, Volcanoes National Park.

{{8. Kwihangana
}}

Kwihangana, whose sex is unknown, is from the Kwisanga family, born on March 16, 2025, to Aheza. The name means “patience.” Kwihangana was named by Naume Mukabarisa, Ranger, Volcanoes National Park.

{{9. Ogera
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Ogera’s details were not disclosed during the ceremony. The name means “popular.” This baby was named by Khaby Lame, a globally renowned content creator and social media personality.

{{10. Burere
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Burere is a female from the Muhoza family, born on October 3, 2024, to Iriba. Her name means “upbringing.” She was named by Princess Ingeborg zu Schleswig-Holstein, a German artist, philanthropist, and Chairperson of the Louisenlund Foundation.

{{11. Ntarungu
}}

Ntarungu is a female from the Kwitonda family, born on April 29, 2024, to Gahuza. Her name means “companionship” or “enthusiastic.” She was named by His Highness Tunku Ali Redhauddin ibni Tuanku Muhriz, Prince of Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, and President of WWF Malaysia.

{{12. Mwizerwa
}}

Mwizerwa is a female from the Matsiko Cyuzuzo family, born on April 20, 2024, to Umuco. Her name means “reliable.” She was named by Professor Senait Fisseha, MD, JD, Vice President of Global Programs at the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation and Chief Advisor to the WHO.

{{13. Impuguke
}}

Impuguke is a female from the Kwisanga family, born on July 21, 2024, to Ahazaza. Her name means “expert.” She was named by Sang-Hyup Kim, Director-General of the Global Green Growth Institute.

{{14. Rugwiro
}}

Rugwiro is a male from the Pablo family, born on January 22, 2024, to Ubukombe. His name means “hospitable.” He was named by David S. Marriott, Chairman of Marriott International.

{{15. Tekana
}}

Tekana is a female from the Isimbi family, born on December 24, 2023, to Africa. Her name means “feel secure.” She was named by Dr. Yin Ye, CEO of BGI Group and science popularisation vlogger.

{{16. Ntavogerwa
}}

Ntavogerwa is a male from the Agashya family, born on December 14, 2024, to Inyungu. His name means “untouchable.” He was named by Charlie Mayhew, Co-founder and CEO of Tusk Trust.

{{17. Nyunganizi
}}

Nyunganizi is a male from the Mutobo family, born on November 18, 2024, to Akamaro. His name means “supporter” or “helper.” He was named by Claver Ntoyinkima, Senior Ranger Guide and Trainer, Nyungwe National Park.

{{18. Umurage
}}

Umurage, whose sex is unknown, is from the Hirwa family, born on May 22, 2024, to Umoja. The name means “heritage.” Umurage was named by Michael Bay, an award-winning American film director and producer.

{{19. Rwogere
}}

Rwogere is a female from the Sabyinyo family, born on May 1, 2025, to Karema. Her name means “famous.” She was named by Michelle Yeoh Todt, internationally acclaimed actress and UNDP Goodwill Ambassador.

{{20. Garuka
}}

Garuka is a male from the Kwisanga family, born on October 18, 2024, to Nchili. His name means “return.” He was named by Jeanine Rema (Khadja Nin), an internationally acclaimed Burundian singer, songwriter, and humanitarian.

{{21. Rubuga
}}

Rubuga is a male from the Muhoza family, born on November 30, 2024, to Twitabweho. His name means “platform.” He was named by Mathieu Flamini, Arsenal legend and CEO of GFBiochemicals.

{{22. Ruvugiro
}}

Ruvugiro is a male from the Sabyinyo family, born on May 19, 2025, to Gukina. His name means “platform.” He was named by Jean Todt, UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety and former President of FIA.

{{23. Mwungeri
}}

Mwungeri is a female from the Isimbi family, born on August 9, 2025, to Ejoheza. Her name means “shepherd.” She was named by Matthew Harris, Founding Partner of Global Infrastructure Partners and Senior Managing Director at BlackRock.

{{24. Iwacu
}}

Iwacu, whose sex is unknown, is from the Isimbi family, born on May 15, 2024, to Isura. The name means “our home.” Iwacu was named by Laura Kabasomi Kakoma (‘Somi’), Rwandan-American vocalist, composer, and playwright.

{{25. Kundwa
}}

Kundwa, whose sex is unknown, is from the Igisha family, born on May 1, 2025, to Imbaga. The name means “loved.” She was named by Yemi Alade, a Grammy-nominated Nigerian Afropop singer and songwriter.

{{26. Tengarama
}}

Tengarama is a male from the Amahoro family, born on August 1, 2023, to Mudahinyuka. His name means “be safe and sound.” He was named by Reed Oppenheimer, Chairman and CEO of the Reed Jules Oppenheimer Foundation.

{{27. Cyubahiro
}}

Cyubahiro is a female from the Mutobo family, born on September 12, 2024, to Igitangaza. Her name means “respect” or “honour.” She was named by Athanasie Mukabizimungu, Founder and Chairperson of Imbereheza Gahunga.

{{28. Rwandanziza
}}

Rwandanziza is a male from the Igisha family, born on September 4, 2023, to Twongere. His name means “beautiful Rwanda.” He was named by Dr. Edward Hult, CEO of Education First North America.

{{29. Muvugizi
}}

Muvugizi is a female from the Isimbi family, born on March 22, 2024, to Rwandarushya. Her name means “advocate.” She was named by Suzanne Sinegal, Co-founder and President of Rwanda Girls Initiative & Gashora Girls Academy of Science and Technology.

{{30. Mpinganzima
}}

Mpinganzima is a female from the Muhoza family, born on November 30, 2023, to Ikirezi. Her name means “futuristic.” She was named by Gagan Gupta, an entrepreneur, conservationist, and builder of Africa’s green future.

{{31. Rugano
}}

Rugano is a male from the Isimbi family, born on March 12, 2024, to Dukundane. His name means “bamboo.” He was named by Camille Rebelo, Founder and CEO of EcoPlanet Bamboo.

{{32. Iraba
}}

Iraba is a female from the Amahoro family, born on September 26, 2024, to Ihame. Her name means “ornament pattern.” She was named by Luis Garcia, Atlético de Madrid legend and ESPN football analyst.

{{33. Amahumbezi
}}

Amahumbezi, whose sex is unknown, is from the Agashya family, born on January 13, 2025, to Munezero. The name means “gentle breeze.” He was named by Bacary Sagna, an Arsenal legend.

{{34. Izere
}}

Izere is a male from the Titus family, born on November 16, 2024, to Agaseke. His name means “hope.” He was named by Xi Zhinong, renowned Chinese wildlife photographer and Founder of “Wild China” film.

{{35. Shyamba
}}

Shyamba, whose sex is unknown, is from the Musilikale family, born on January 16, 2025, to Ubufatanye. The name means “forest.” Shyamba was named by Lee Ehmke, conservation leader and former President & CEO of Houston Zoo.

{{36. Cyerekezo
}}

Cyerekezo is a female from the Musilikale family, born on January 8, 2025, to Izihirwa. Her name means “vision.” She was named by Susan Chin, Senior Vice President of Strategy and Advancement, Wildlife Conservation Society.

{{37. Nkomoko
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Nkomoko is a female from the Ntambara family, born on February 3, 2024, to Tegereza. Her name means “origin.” She was named by Ruth Fisher, Corporate Attorney and President of Pereg Holdings.

{{38. Higa
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Higa, whose sex is unknown, is from the Ntambara family, born on February 23, 2025, to Nsanganira. The name means “commit.” Higa was named by Vivien Ressler, creative and philanthropist.

{{39. Terimbere
}}

Terimbere is a male from the Igisha family, born on December 3, 2023, to Ikigera. His name means “progress.” He was named by Jean de Dieu Niyonzima, student at the Educational Institute for Blind Children, Nyaruguru District.

{{40. Ogera
}}

Ogera was named virtually by Khaby Lame, TikTok sensation and one of the world’s most-followed social media personalities, emphasising Rwanda’s commitment to linking conservation with global culture.

Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva, speaking at the event in the foothills of the park in Kinigi, Musanze District, highlighted the ambitious plan, emphasising that it will not only safeguard the critically endangered mountain gorillas but also uplift surrounding communities.

The ceremony, which named 40 baby gorillas, bringing the total to 438 since 2005, served as a vibrant backdrop to Rwanda’s conservation vision. Dozens of high-profile individuals from various fields, including conservation, attended the naming ceremony.

“Rwanda is honoured to be the custodian of these last mountain gorillas, which are not only a global treasure but also a source of pride and economic opportunity for our nation,” Prime Minister Nsengiyumva declared.

“But success brings new challenges. As the gorilla families grow, we must expand their habitat,” he added.

The government plans to increase the park’s size from its current 160 square kilometres by approximately 37.4 square kilometres (3,740 hectares), a move expected to support a 15-20% increase in the gorilla population and reduce infant mortality by 50%.

This expansion, supported by partnerships with organisations like the African Wildlife Foundation and the World Bank through its Volcanoes Community Resilience Project (VCRP), aims to reduce rising conflicts between gorilla groups caused by limited space, which can sometimes result in the death of young gorillas.

PM Nsengiyumva framed the expansion as a testament to Rwanda’s model of community-centred conservation, which has helped the mountain gorilla population in the Virunga Massif grow.

“The story of the mountain gorillas has not always been one of celebration. Years ago, their population had alarmingly decreased, and their survival seemed uncertain. Today, we are over a thousand mountain gorillas worldwide, including more than 600 in the Virunga Massif,” he stated.

The Prime Minister called on the international community to join Rwanda in this ambitious project, emphasising the shared responsibility to protect biodiversity.

“When we stand united, no mountain is too high to climb,” he said, drawing a parallel between the gorillas’ perseverance and humanity’s challenges.

Jean-Guy Afrika, CEO of the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), echoed the Prime Minister’s commitment, emphasising Rwanda’s conservation achievements and their economic impact.

“In 2024, the sector generated 647 million dollars, with gorilla tourism alone contributing over 200 million dollars,” Afrika noted.

He credited Rwanda’s robust legal and policy framework, including biodiversity laws and a tourism revenue-sharing program that allocates 10% of park revenues to local development, for transforming communities.

“Over 1,200 projects were supported, including schools, health centres, markets, homes, and agricultural hubs,” he said, underscoring the synergy between conservation and community empowerment.

The expansion at Volcanoes National Park will include a buffer zone to minimise human-wildlife conflict, with over 3,400 resettled families gaining access to better housing, social infrastructure, and eco-tourism opportunities, creating an estimated 17,000 new jobs.

The milestone event drew more than 30 influential figures from around the globe, who joined Rwandans in honouring the country’s conservation achievements. First Lady Jeannette Kagame was among the high-ranking officials who attended the ceremony, which was presided over by Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva.

American film director Michael Bay, Arsenal legend Bacary Sagna, actress Michelle Yeoh Todt, former FIA President Jean Todt, PSG legend Javier Pastore, Nigerian Afropop star Yemi Alade, and leaders from global conservation organisations were among the distinguished participants who named the young gorillas.

Bay named one baby gorilla Umurage, meaning “heritage,” while Alade named hers Kundwa, meaning “loved.”

“As a movie director, I am going to make him a famous gorilla movie star,” Bay remarked.

Reflecting on the moment, Alade said:

“As the first daughter of her mother, I know the responsibility of this role. It cannot be replaced because there is only one first daughter. The minute I laid my eyes on beautiful Kundwa, it was love at first sight. I feel grateful to the guides and trackers who spent hours locating the gorilla family. Their dedication allowed us to be welcomed into this family, and I love my baby Kundwa.”

The ceremony, held at the foothills of Volcanoes National Park in Kinigi, Musanze District, came alive with traditional dances and vibrant attire, as the namers dressed in dark green blended with other colourful hues, celebrated alongside the locals.

Among the other prominent “namers” were Princess Ingeborg Zu Schleswig-Holstein, Prince Tunku Ali Redhauddin ibni Tuanku Muhriz, Professor Senait Fisseha, Sang-Hyup Kim, David S. Marriott, Dr Yin Ye, Charlie and Caroline Mayhew, Claver Ntoyinkima, Matthew Harris, Jeanine Rema (Khadja Nin), Mathieu Flamini, Laura Kabasomi Kakoma (‘Somi’), Reed Oppenheimer, Athanasie Mukabizimungu, Dr Edward Hult, Suzanne Sinegal, Gagan Gupta, Camille Rebelo, Luis Garcia, Xi Zhinong, Lee Ehmke, Susan Chin, Ruth Fisher, Vivien Ressler, and Jean de Dieu Niyonzima.

Virtual participants included TikTok sensation Khaby Lame and a team of rangers and researchers from the Volcanoes National Park and the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.

In his address, Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva highlighted the global significance of the event:

“Today, we celebrate not only the naming of baby gorillas but also conservation, communities, and the extraordinary power of nature to unite people from all corners of the world… Thanks to the leadership of Rwanda, the dedication of conservationists, and the commitment of our communities, mountain gorillas have come back from the brink. Today, there are over a thousand mountain gorillas worldwide, including more than 600 in the Virunga Massif.”

The Prime Minister also affirmed a bold plan to expand Volcanoes National Park by nearly 25%, ensuring future generations of gorillas have secure habitats while simultaneously improving local livelihoods.

Rwanda Development Board (RDB) CEO Jean-Guy Afrika described Kwita Izina as a symbol of the country’s dedication to protecting its natural heritage and uplifting communities.

“This year, we celebrate 40 baby gorillas, bringing the total named since 2005 to 438. Kwita Izina is more than a ceremony—it is a global movement that combines conservation, community empowerment, and tourism, which in 2024 generated $647 million, with gorilla tourism alone contributing over $200 million.”

“Over 1,200 projects were supported, including schools, health centres, markets, homes and agricultural hubs across the country,” he added.

He added that Rwanda’s conservation achievements extend beyond gorillas, noting the reintroduction of lions and rhinos to Akagera National Park and the 2025 translocation of 70 white rhinos—the world’s largest such effort.

Governor of the Northern Province Maurice Mugabowagahunde welcomed participants and thanked the Head of State for safeguarding Volcanoes National Park. He noted that communities surrounding the park had benefited from over 695 projects funded through the tourism revenue-sharing program, with investments exceeding Frw 6 billion across 12 sectors.

“Residents appreciate the important project to expand Volcanoes National Park, which we believe will further boost tourism. Hosting the Kwita Izina ceremony here in the Northern Province is a great source of pride for our region,” he said.

The world’s most-followed TikToker, with over 161.5 million followers, Lame rose to fame during the COVID-19 pandemic with his silent comedy skits and was this year named a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.

He is among more than 30 prominent figures set to name baby gorillas at the event in Volcanoes National Park. A total of 40 infants will be named, including 18 born in 2024.

Other participants include celebrated American film director Michael Bay, Arsenal legend Bacary Sagna, Burundian singer Khadja Nin, Rwandan-American vocalist Somi Kakoma, philanthropist Vivien Ressler, CEO of Education First North America Dr. Edward Hult, and conservationists working in Volcanoes National Park.

An [earlier list also confirmed->https://en.igihe.com/tourism/article/kwita-izina-2025-meet-the-stars-who-will-name-rwanda-s-baby-gorillas] actress Michelle Yeoh Todt, former FIA President Jean Todt, PSG legend Javier Pastore, Nigerian Afropop star Yemi Alade, and leaders from global conservation organisations.

Launched in 2005, Kwita Izina has become a platform for conservation awareness and sustainable tourism, highlighting Rwanda’s success in protecting endangered mountain gorillas.