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.
Speaking at the Aviation Africa Summit and Exhibition in Kigali on Thursday, September 4, 2025, Makolo emphasised that despite progress under the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), market access remains uneven across the continent.
“Even with countries that are signatories to SAATM, we still face challenges gaining access to some points, which is frustrating,” she said.
Makolo also highlighted the airline’s ongoing fleet expansion, noting the addition of two Boeing 737-800 aircraft and an expected Airbus A330 by the end of the year.
“Availability of aircraft, spare parts, and engines is increasingly tough, especially for smaller carriers competing against larger airlines,” she said.
The RwandAir CEO also spoke about the airline’s preparation for the upcoming Bugesera International Airport, expected to be completed in 2028 at an estimated cost of around $2 billion.
“We are looking as an airline to grow. We have the new airport that’s coming up in the next two and a half years. And in order to grow, we need to make sure we’re ready for that growth,” she said.
The first phase of the new Bugesera International Airport is planned to handle 7 million passengers annually. A subsequent second phase will expand the airport’s capacity to handle 14 million passengers per year.
Makolo noted the importance of partnerships in expanding the airline’s reach. RwandAir has extended codeshare agreements with Qatar Airways and Ethiopian Airlines, giving it access to more than 100 additional destinations.
“For African airlines, it’s important to partner both internationally and within the continent to achieve the scale needed,” she added.
Protectionism remains a major barrier to continental connectivity. Makolo cited excessive fees and restrictive practices in some countries as obstacles to growth.
“We need to get to a level where we understand the importance of aviation. It’s not for rich people. It’s for all citizens of our continent. Given the vastness of this continent, we need aviation to connect with each other,” the RwandAir CEO stated.
Charles Habonimana, Managing Director of Rwanda Airports Company, emphasised the necessity for structural reforms within African aviation to enhance its efficiency and competitiveness.
He advocated for modernising airport infrastructure, privatising operations, and liberalising airspace.
He further underscored the need for airspace liberalisation through the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), noting, “SAATM is a vision for Africa to open up our skies, but we face challenges like protectionism.” These reforms, he argued, are critical to reducing high airfares and improving connectivity across the continent.
Additionally, Habonimana highlighted the challenges in financing aviation development, pointing out that governments struggle to prioritise airport projects amid competing demands.
“Each government goes with like 20 files [to development partners like the World Bank or African Development Bank]—healthcare, agriculture, now today what is trending is the environment protection. So you can imagine then bringing eight files of one government, and we’re 54 governments. Adding airport development, airport maintenance or airport upgrade, that would never be a priority for those development partners,” he explained.
He proposed a dedicated African aviation fund to address this issue, ensuring resources for infrastructure upgrades. Workforce development is another critical focus for Rwanda. Habonimana detailed the establishment of a civil aviation training centre in Kigali, supported by the African Development Bank, to prepare young people for aviation careers and develop skills tailored to the African context.
“That’s why we have established a centre, a civil aviation training centre based here in Kigali in the aviation authority, training young people to come into this industry, but also for the future transformation,” he stated.
He emphasised the need to train 15,000 pilots and 20,000 engineers by 2040 to support Africa’s projected passenger growth, noting, “With this number of 15,000 pilots and 20,000 engineers, all of them need other support people in this industry, which means we need to invest more in human capital on the continent.”
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.
The Kigali office will offer Fund Administration, Corporate Services, Compliance Solutions, as well as Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) advisory services, pending regulatory approvals.
The company said in a statement on Thursday that, in offering its services, it will work closely with the Kigali International Financial Centre (KIFC), which is positioning Rwanda as a leading hub for financial services in Africa.
Emma Msowoya, Country Head of Apex Group Rwanda, said the office reflects a “long-term commitment to the region” and a focus on building local expertise.
“I am proud to be part of Apex Group’s entry into East Africa as we expand our global footprint and drive meaningful change across the financial services industry,” she said.
“Rwanda’s reputation for innovation, stability, and progressive economic policy makes it an ideal location for Apex Group’s next chapter in Africa,” she added.
KIFC CEO Hortense Mudenge welcomed the expansion, saying it demonstrates growing global confidence in Rwanda’s stable business environment and strengthens the country’s position as a competitive financial hub.
“Apex Group’s presence further strengthens our financial ecosystem, enhances the availability of world-class services and Rwanda’s position as a trusted and competitive financial hub on the continent,” the KIFC CEO stated.
Apex Group, founded in Bermuda in 2003, operates in more than 50 countries worldwide, including several in Africa such as South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana.
The company plans to host an official launch event for the new office on September 8 at the Kigali Marriott Hotel, bringing together clients, partners, and stakeholders from across the region.
Beyond conservation, the park is also a source of employment. Management reports that more than 6,000 people have benefited from jobs linked to the development and maintenance of its facilities, including constructing walkways, building infrastructure, planting trees, removing invasive species, and ensuring cleanliness.
Visitor numbers have continued to grow. In 2024, the park attracted over 76,000 visitors, up from 69,222 in 2023. Between January and July 2025 alone, more than 56,000 people had already visited. This increase has translated into higher revenues, with Frw 158 million generated during the same seven-month period.
Encouraged by these results, park management is preparing to launch new projects aimed at enhancing the visitor experience and boosting tourism appeal. Planned additions include animals, electric buggies, and new walking and cycling paths.
“We intend to expand trails for tourists who prefer walking, cycling, or using electric scooters,” park officials told IGIHE.
“We will increase the number of bicycles and scooters and introduce electric buggies for those who wish to tour the park while seated. We are also conducting a feasibility study to introduce herbivorous animals, and we plan to host conferences that align with biodiversity conservation.”
The park also plans to introduce art installations, innovative structures, and digital tools to enhance learning about biodiversity. Interactive displays and creative facilities are expected to provide engaging experiences for both children and adults. Additionally, the innovation center will support young people through training programs designed to build skills in creativity and environmental stewardship.
Future projects include establishing eco-camping facilities to allow visitors to spend nights in tents, offering professional photography services, and adding more benches for relaxation and social interaction.
Management has also outlined initiatives to support surrounding communities in Nyarugunga, Ndera, and Kimironko sectors, focusing on income-generating activities through cooperatives.
Currently, the park is open from morning until 6 p.m., but plans are underway to extend closing hours to 9 p.m. in response to visitor demand.
Nyandungu Park was officially opened in July 2022 after six years of wetland restoration. Spanning 121 hectares—70 hectares of wetland and 50 hectares of forest—it is home to more than 60 plant species and over 200 bird species.
The park features a medicinal plant garden, the “Pope’s Garden,” five fish ponds, three swimming ponds, a visitor centre, a modern restaurant, and a 10-kilometre trail for walking and cycling.
AFC/M23 leader Corneille Nangaa recently told reporters he would send a large delegation to the discussions aimed at finding solutions to the DRC’s ongoing crisis.
As promised, a team led by AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka has already arrived in South Africa. Before joining the talks, the group also attended an international peace and security conference hosted by the Mbeki Foundation.
Kabila, who was among those invited, dispatched senior allies including his former chief of staff Néhémie Mwilanya, former Kinshasa governor Andre Kimbuta, former senator Francine Muyumba, and former deputy budget minister Félix Momat Kitenge.
Mbeki’s foundation had extended invitations to a broad range of participants, including members of President Félix Tshisekedi’s government and opposition figures.
However, Tshisekedi declined the Mbeki Foundation’s invitation, insisting that Congolese do not need a mediator to resolve their own political challenges. He argued that peace talks organised abroad are merely a distraction. Government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya reinforced that stance, saying no official from Kinshasa would attend, claiming that Mbeki did not fully understand the country’s problems.
Speaking to South African media on September 4, Kanyuka criticised Tshisekedi’s position, saying it undermined other peace efforts supported by the United States and Qatar.
“I know the map very well. Washington is not in the DRC, Doha is not in the DRC—they are foreign powers,” he said. “Why does he say he doesn’t want to be distracted by external talks? By closing the door to all dialogue, he is choosing war. That has been his position from the start.”
Thabo Mbeki, who served as South Africa’s president from 1999 to 2008, has long taken an interest in the DRC and is considered one of the African leaders most familiar with its conflicts.
The Head of State delivered his remarks at the opening of the 9th edition of the Aviation Africa Summit and Exhibition in Kigali on Thursday, September 4, 2025.
“Since its inception, the Aviation Africa Summit has been pivotal in showing how much growth Africa’s aviation industry has experienced in a very short time,” President Kagame said, welcoming participants from across the continent and beyond.
“With the exhibitors and sponsors present, we also see how much more potential the aviation sector has to offer.”
Highlighting Rwanda’s innovative partnerships, President Kagame pointed to the collaboration with Zipline, which has been delivering urgent medical supplies to health facilities via drones for over a decade.
“This technology does not only save time; it also saves lives,” he said, noting plans to expand the service to urban deliveries and support emerging sectors like e-commerce.
President Kagame also celebrated a landmark moment for African aviation, witnessing the continent’s first-ever autonomous air taxi flight at the summit.
“We are very happy to be part of this demonstration and look forward to seeing what will come next,” he said.
President Kagame underscored the need for investments in a robust and dynamic aviation sector, pointing to a growing middle class, increasing tourism, and projected doubling of passenger traffic across the continent in the coming years.
President Kagame called for stronger collaboration with the African Union and African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) to realise ‘one sky and free movement’ across Africa, noting Rwanda’s policy allowing visa-free entry for all African nationals.
“We have all the resources and capabilities we need,” he said, stressing that collaboration, innovation, and policy reforms are key to making travel more accessible and affordable.
Minister of Infrastructure Jimmy Gasore also welcomed participants, stressing Rwanda’s strategic role as a hub for aviation innovation and future air mobility.
“For Rwanda, aviation is not just a mode of transport; it is a strategic enabler of development,” he said, highlighting the integration of the Africa Drone Forum into the summit.
The two-day summit, hosted by the Government of Rwanda alongside the Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority, RwandAir, and Rwanda Airports Company, opened at the Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre under the theme, “Collaborating to Unlock Africa’s Aviation Growth.”
The summit brings together senior government officials, airline CEOs, Air Chiefs, and industry professionals to discuss key sectoral priorities, including sustainable aviation fuels, advanced air mobility technologies, and airport infrastructure development.
Rwanda is positioning itself as a leader in aviation excellence, investing in major infrastructure projects like the new Kigali International Airport in Bugesera and supporting technological innovation to strengthen the continent’s aviation ecosystem. The previous edition of the summit was held in Johannesburg, South Africa, in 2024.
The Kigali gathering aims to transform policy discussions into practical actions, fostering collaboration that can help Africa fully realise its aviation potential.
This deeply symbolic event, meaning “to give a name” in Kinyarwanda, is a celebration of Rwanda’s conservation successes, community engagement, and the incredible journey of the country’s endangered mountain gorillas.
A total of 40 baby mountain gorillas will be named, including 18 born in 2024, when the ceremony was postponed due to the Marburg virus outbreak in Rwanda.
Over the past two decades, Kwita Izina has evolved into a global platform, attracting influential figures from around the world who participate in naming the newest generation of baby gorillas. These distinguished participants serve as ambassadors for conservation, highlighting Rwanda’s pioneering role in blending sustainable tourism with rigorous wildlife protection.
The 20th anniversary promises will bring together leaders from diverse fields, including entertainment, sports, business, science, and hands-on conservation.
Below are the 20 prominent figures who will take part in Kwita Izina 2025:
{{1. Michelle Yeoh Todt
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Internationally acclaimed actress and UNDP Goodwill Ambassador, Michelle Yeoh Todt is renowned not only for her stellar career in film but also for her advocacy on gender equality, environmental sustainability, and global development.
At Kwita Izina, she brings her global influence to champion wildlife conservation and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.
{{2. Jean Todt
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The United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety, motorsport executive, and former FIA President, Jean Todt, is a global leader in advocacy and safety. His participation in Kwita Izina underscores the intersection of leadership, global responsibility, and conservation awareness, highlighting the importance of cross-sector support for wildlife protection.
3. Javier Pastore
Argentine professional footballer and PSG legend, Javier Pastore, is known for his elegant play as an attacking midfielder and his environmental advocacy.
His involvement in Kwita Izina reflects how global sports icons can champion conservation and inspire new generations of environmental stewards.
{{4. His Highness Tunku Ali Redhauddin ibni Tuanku Muhriz
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Prince of Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, and President of World Wide Fund for Nature Malaysia, Tunku Ali has long championed environmental protection and sustainable development initiatives.
His presence at Kwita Izina reflects the critical role of international collaboration in safeguarding endangered species such as mountain gorillas.
{{5. Mathieu Flamini
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Former professional footballer for Arsenal and CEO of GFBiochemicals, Mathieu Flamini bridges the worlds of sports and sustainability.
At Kwita Izina, he represents the growing role of public figures in supporting innovative solutions for conservation and environmental stewardship.
{{6. Yemi Alade
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Grammy-nominated Nigerian Afropop singer and songwriter, Yemi Alade, uses her global platform to promote awareness of cultural and environmental causes.
Her participation at Kwita Izina highlights the power of arts and culture in engaging audiences for conservation initiatives.
{{7. David S. Marriott}}
Chairman of the Board of Marriott International, Inc., David S. Marriott brings decades of leadership experience in global hospitality. His presence at Kwita Izina symbolises the crucial partnership between conservation and sustainable tourism, highlighting the connection between protecting Rwanda’s natural treasures and responsible travel experiences.
{{8. Susan Chin
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Senior Vice President of Strategy and Advancement at the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), Susan Chin, combines architecture, design, and conservation to create immersive wildlife experiences.
Her work educates millions about the natural world, and at Kwita Izina, she exemplifies the importance of connecting people with wildlife through creative and strategic engagement.
{{9. Dr. Gaspard Nzayisenga
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Field veterinarian with Gorilla Doctors, Dr. Nzayisenga provides hands-on medical care to wild mountain and Grauer’s gorillas, often treating injuries from snares and monitoring their health in Volcanoes National Park. His role is vital in ensuring the survival of these endangered species.
{{10. Alliance Umwizerwa
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Gorilla Research Assistant with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, Alliance monitors gorilla populations and conducts behavioural research, contributing critical insights that inform conservation strategies and habitat management.
{{11. Leonard Nsengiyumva
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Data Technician at the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, Leonard supports gorilla conservation by managing and analysing crucial data, helping to track population trends and inform field interventions.
{{12. Brenda Umutoni
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Ranger at Volcanoes National Park, Brenda is on the front lines of protecting mountain gorillas and their habitats through patrols, monitoring, and community engagement programs that ensure long-term conservation success.
{{13. Claver Ntoyinkima
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Senior Ranger Guide and Trainer at Nyungwe National Park, Claver oversees wildlife protection and ranger training, fostering a new generation of skilled conservationists dedicated to preserving Rwanda’s rich biodiversity.
Claver was in November 2024 awarded the prestigious Tusk Wildlife Ranger Award in recognition of his exceptional dedication to primate and bird conservation in Rwanda.
{{14. Reed Oppenheimer
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As the Chairman and CEO of the Reed Jules Oppenheimer Foundation, Reed leads philanthropic initiatives supporting education, health, and environmental conservation.
At Kwita Izina, he demonstrates the role of private foundations in promoting global conservation goals.
{{15. Sang-Hyup Kim
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Sang-Hyup is the Director-General of the Global Green Growth Institute. He advances sustainable development and environmental policies worldwide. His participation highlights the link between international policy, economic growth, and the preservation of endangered species.
{{16. Athanasie Mukabizimungu
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Founder and Chairperson of the Imbereheza Cooperative in Gahunga, Athanasie empowers local communities through sustainable agriculture and development projects, showing how grassroots efforts can complement wildlife conservation.
{{17. Charlie Mayhew OBE
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Charlie Mayhew OBE is the co-founder and CEO of Tusk Trust. He leads initiatives that protect wildlife and support community development across Africa, illustrating the power of collaborative conservation models.
{{18. Dr. Yin Ye
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The CEO of BGI Group and science popularisation vlogger bridges the gap between scientific innovation and public engagement, bringing evidence-based insights to global conservation efforts.
{{19. Princess Ingeborg zu Schleswig-Holstein
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Artist, philanthropist, and Chairperson of the Louisenlund Foundation, Princess Ingeborg uses her artistic and philanthropic influence to support environmental and cultural causes, inspiring broader societal involvement in conservation.
{{20. Camille Rebelo}}
Camille Rebelo is the founder and CEO of EcoPlanet Bamboo. Camille implements sustainable land-use projects that combat deforestation, rehabilitate degraded land, and create employment opportunities, demonstrating the impact of entrepreneurial solutions in conservation.
Together, these distinguished individuals will participate in the symbolic act of naming the newest baby gorillas, a gesture that reinforces the global commitment to biodiversity, conservation, and Rwanda’s leadership in sustainable tourism.
Their involvement highlights not only the remarkable recovery of mountain gorilla populations but also the importance of international collaboration, community engagement, and innovative approaches to wildlife protection.
The launch took place on September 3, 2025, just hours before the ninth edition of the Aviation Africa summit, a two-day conference bringing together over 80 aviation companies from across the continent.
The drones, known as eVTOLs (electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing vehicles), are manufactured by Chinese company EHang and run entirely on electricity.
Each drone costs approximately $400,000 (approximately Frw 579 million), can carry two passengers, transport over 620 kilograms of cargo, cover 30 kilometres, and fly for up to 25 minutes on a full charge. They operate at an altitude of 100 metres, feature 12 rotors mounted on four arms, and are equipped with technology to detect obstacles mid-air.
Melissa Rusanganwa, International Affairs Manager at the Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority (RCAA), was the first to experience the aircraft in flight.
“I felt safe throughout the flight,” she said. “The crew conducted thorough checks and gave us instructions to follow. This technology will connect people across different regions and support tourism while being environmentally friendly, as the drones are fully electric.”
Rwanda has previously used drones mainly for medical deliveries. Zipline Rwanda, operational since October 2016, has delivered blood, vaccines, and medical supplies to over 650 health facilities, including more than 100 small clinics. Their drones carry 2–3 kilograms, travel up to 160 kilometres at speeds of 130 km/h, and complete long-distance trips in under 40 minutes.
The country is also developing a state-of-the-art Drone Operation Centre in Huye District, Southern Province, on the site of a former airfield. The 13.4 billion Rwandan franc facility will accommodate drones of all sizes, including large models comparable to helicopters with wingspans of 18–20 metres. It will host up to 3,000 drones at once and include areas for assembly and testing of new drones.
