Dr. Nsanzimana shared this update on Thursday, January 16, 2025, during a presentation to the Senate about the progress of implementing the National Health Policy and efforts to improve primary healthcare services.
Plans to relocate CHUK were first unveiled in 2013, aiming to move the hospital out of Kigali’s city center.
The decision was influenced by increasing congestion in the area due to rapid commercial developments.
According to the minister, the renovation and expansion of the new facilities to house CHUK in Masaka is in its advanced stages with expectations for the relocation process to begin within the set timeframe.
“There are only a few months left. We expect to finalize everything by June or August, for the hospital’s relocation to begin,” Dr. Nsanzimana stated.
He also confirmed that the current CHUK site would continue to offer some healthcare services.
“The current CHUK site will still be used for necessary health services, particularly those that can complement nearby hospitals like Muhima and Nyarugenge. These services are being carefully planned, as demand for them continues to grow. Teams are working to ensure that once the construction and relocation are complete, everything will follow smoothly,” he explained.
“This is not a rushed process because relocating a hospital and its services requires thorough preparation. Residents need to be informed, equipment must be installed, and resources organized to ensure that services are not interrupted,” he added.
The new CHUK facility will be located in the former Masaka Hospital premises, which have undergone significant upgrades.
As of November 2024, 80% of the renovation work is complete. The project, implemented by the Government of Rwanda through the Ministry of Health, is being financed by the Chinese Government.
The project is estimated to cost Frw 85 billion and will accommodate 827 patients, nearly doubling its current capacity of 400.
The design includes three multi-story buildings, some rising five stories high, to provide expanded patient care.
Additionally, the hospital will feature facilities for research, teaching, and specialized services, contributing to the growth of healthcare in the region.
The Masaka area, designated for healthcare services, is expected to become a hub for medical tourism, further enhancing Rwanda’s healthcare landscape.
“The new site is already home to other healthcare facilities, with more under consideration. For example, the Research Institute against Digestive Cancer [IRCAD] has been operational there for some time, and new laboratories are also set to be built in the area,” he noted.
Among these was TROLL, a satellite developed by the Czech Republic’s TRL Space, which specializes in small CubeSat satellites. TRL Space also operates a branch in Rwanda, TRL Space Rwanda.
The TROLL satellite will orbit Earth in the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) region, approximately 2,000 kilometers above the Earth’s surface, a common orbit due to its proximity to Earth.
While in orbit, TROLL will partner with the Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture (RICA) to gather valuable data on Rwandan crops, supporting research to enhance agricultural productivity.
Beyond Rwanda, the satellite will aid efforts to monitor deforestation and human activities that damage soil and water in the Czech Republic.
Through collaboration with the Maldives Space Research Organisation (MSRO), it will also collect data on rising temperatures and sea levels surrounding the Maldives.
The technology developed for TROLL will play a key role in the creation of a similar satellite being built in Rwanda.
The upcoming Rwandan satellite, equipped with advanced sensors that capture a wide colour spectrum, will provide precise data on crops, soil health, and other environmental factors.
According to Petr Kapoum, CEO of TRL Space Rwanda, the Rwandan satellite is expected to be completed by June 2026, 20 months after October 2024.
Once ready, it will be shipped to the United States for launch from either the Kennedy Space Center or Cape Canaveral in Florida, using a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.
This project highlights Rwanda’s growing role in space technology and its commitment to leveraging space innovations for sustainable agricultural and environmental solutions.
However, further studies are needed to determine the quantity of oil and the costs involved in its extraction.
“The good news is that we have oil. Preliminary research in Lake Kivu revealed 13 wells with signs of oil,” RMB’s CEO, Francis Kamanzi, told members of parliament on Wednesday, January 15, 2025.
“Considering discoveries in neighboring regions like Uganda, oil was discovered in Lake Albert, which is believed to be part of the same rift valley stretching through Lake Kivu to Lake Tanganyika. There is confidence that oil exists,” he added.
Kamanzi shared the development during a discussion between the Parliamentary Committee on Governance, Gender Equality and the Ministry of Environment.
Efforts to explore oil in Rwanda began years ago but were halted in 2014.
They resumed after Canada-based company Black Swan Energy discovered that parts of Eastern Kivu could yield oil and gas easily.
The presence of methane gas in Lake Kivu was an initial indicator of potential oil deposits, as methane is often found alongside oil.
Kamanzi expressed optimism, suggesting that Lake Kivu might have larger oil reserves than neighboring countries: “Our Lake Kivu is deeper than other lakes in the region, so we might have more oil than our neighbors.”
While the initial studies confirmed the presence of oil, deeper exploration is needed to determine the quantity, type, and commercial viability.
This involves drilling to collect samples for laboratory analysis.
The process is expensive, as the cost of drilling one well can exceed $15 million (approximately Frw 20 billion).
Earlier research, conducted at depths of up to 480 meters, included deploying machines to collect samples from the lakebed.
These samples confirmed the presence of methane gas and potential oil reserves.
The next phase involves deploying advanced machines to create detailed maps of the lakebed, identifying precise locations of oil and gas reserves.
Previous exploration phases cost Frw 1.7 billion, and future stages are estimated to require between Frw 8 billion and Frw10 billion.
Oil extracted from Lake Kivu could vary in form, ranging from solid asphalt to liquid fuels like diesel or gasoline, or even gas. Determining the exact type will depend on further tests.
Extracting oil from Lake Kivu would follow a similar process to that used for methane gas extraction.
It starts with drilling deep holes in the lakebed, using specialized equipment capable of penetrating rocks and other materials. Once drilled, the base is reinforced with sand or gravel.
Pipes are then inserted into the holes to pump oil from beneath the lakebed to surface storage tanks.
The potential for oil in Lake Kivu represents an exciting opportunity for Rwanda, but significant investment and research are still required to unlock its full potential.
This recognition comes after the international body’s acknowledgment of several other Rwandan heritage sites, including four Genocide memorials and Nyungwe National Park, further highlighting the rich cultural and natural heritage of Rwanda.
This momentous event took place on December 3, 2024, during the 19th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, held in Asunción, Paraguay.
The Intore dance’s inclusion on UNESCO’s prestigious list marks a historic first: it is the first time a Rwandan cultural performance has been inscribed, solidifying the Intore as a significant cultural symbol for both Rwanda and the wider world.
UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List is a global effort to safeguard traditions that are passed down through generations. The list aims to preserve practices, knowledge, and skills that define a community’s cultural identity. Currently, 678 elements from 140 countries are included, showcasing the diverse cultural practices and traditions from across the globe.
{{Intore: More than just a dance}}
The Intore dance is a powerful expression of Rwandan culture, performed by a troupe of dancers who recreate the movements of warriors in battle. Dancers form lines that represent the ranks of soldiers preparing for combat, with each movement reflecting strength, courage, and the struggle against an unseen enemy. The rhythm of traditional drums and horns guides the dancers, who wield spears and shields in synchrony with their energetic leaps and footwork.
Accompanying the dance are songs and poems that celebrate themes of victory, power, and national pride, adding a rich auditory layer to the performance.
Today, the Intore dance is widely practiced across Rwanda. It is a prominent feature in national cultural events and festivals, often performed alongside the national ballet in performances that are cherished by both locals and tourists. In addition to state-sponsored events, the dance is celebrated by smaller regional troupes that are found throughout the country. Schools and universities regularly organize training sessions, ensuring that the art form is passed on to younger generations.
The practice is also transmitted within families and communities, further embedding the Intore dance into the social fabric of Rwandan life. Whether at weddings, public celebrations, or during the harvest festival, the dance serves as a vibrant symbol of unity, victory, and cultural pride. It remains a popular form of entertainment and an expression of strength during important national moments.
The inclusion of Intore on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List not only protects the dance from potential extinction but also underscores its role in fostering social cohesion and national identity.
The Africa Report is a Paris-based, English-language quarterly magazine focusing on African politics and economics, founded by Patrick Smith two decades ago.
In its first ranking of African cities, the pan-African media platform recognized Kigali as Africa’s second most inviting, livable, and investment-friendly city.
South Africa’s Cape Town and Johannesburg claimed the first and third spots, followed by Morocco’s twin cities of Casablanca and Rabat. Nairobi, Kenya, ranked sixth.
Other cities in the top 10 include Alexandria, Cairo, Abidjan, and Accra. Additional rankings feature Lagos, Dakar, Gaborone, Addis Ababa, Tunis, Lusaka, Cotonou, Oran, Kampala, Abuja, Lomé, Algiers, Douala, Yaoundé, Luanda, Maputo, Harare, Kinshasa, Libreville, and Ouagadougou.
The report highlights progress made by urban centres while identifying areas for growth, using a comprehensive survey of readers and foreign direct investment data to provide insights into Africa’s evolving urban landscape.
Kigali has previously been recognized for its ease of doing business, driven by streamlined regulatory processes, transparent governance, and supportive policies for entrepreneurs and investors.
The city also boasts a clean, orderly environment thanks to initiatives like monthly Umuganda community cleanups and strict waste management systems, earning it a reputation as one of Africa’s cleanest capitals.
In addition, Kigali embraces innovation with tech hubs, smart city initiatives, and a growing startup ecosystem fostering creativity and modern solutions, making it an attractive destination for both business and living.
In July, Kigali was ranked among the top five favourite destinations for travellers visiting Africa and the Middle East. It moved up four spots from ninth place in the World’s Best Awards 2024, behind Marrakesh, Cape Town, Jerusalem, and Dubai, respectively.
The awards, organized by Travel + Leisure, a New York City-based travel magazine, consider traveler experiences to rank the world’s top cities based on parameters such as sights/landmarks, culture, food, friendliness, shopping, and value.
In the 2024 edition, voters described Kigali as a beautiful and well-organized hub with friendly and helpful residents.
“Amazingly clean and progressive city! I felt safe walking all over,” wrote one voter. “There is a wide variety of cuisine available and amazing coffee.”
The 51-year-old was one of three top African conservationists honoured by Prince William at the Tusk Conservation Awards ceremony held at The Savoy Hotel in London, the United Kingdom (UK), on the night of Wednesday, November 27, 2024.
The Tusk Wildlife Ranger Award, sponsored by the Nick Maughan Family Foundation, gives international recognition to the dedication and commitment of individuals who work in the field to protect Africa’s wildlife.
Born near the [Nyungwe forest he now protects->https://en.igihe.com/tourism/article/from-forest-curiosity-to-global-conservation-hero-claver-ntoyinkima-s-journey?var_mode=calcul], Ntoyinkima combines his deep ecological knowledge of the park’s bird population with a passion for educating and inspiring others.
As a ranger, he has played a vital role in primate habituation and anti-poaching patrols, while also guiding scientific research and bird conservation efforts across Rwanda.
The father of four is also keen to extend his legacy to the next generation through conservation clubs he founded for local youth, promoting a lasting commitment to Rwanda’s natural heritage.
He expressed his joy at winning the international award, saying: “I am truly grateful to be a finalist for the 2024 Tusk Conservation Awards; there are no words to describe how proud I am to win this award. The acknowledgement of my dedication and efforts to give back to the community is truly inspiring. I am very grateful for this historical support and recognition of the conservation efforts made by field-based actors like me.”
The 2024 Tusk Conservation Awards also recognized two other exceptional African conservationists: Nomba Ganamé from Mali, who was awarded the Prince William Award for Conservation in Africa for his groundbreaking work in protecting desert elephants, and Edward Aruna from Sierra Leone, who received the Tusk Award for Conservation in Africa for his efforts in marine turtle conservation.
Prince William commended the winners for their relentless dedication and contributions to the preservation of nature, highlighting their pivotal roles in safeguarding Africa’s wildlife and ecosystems.
“Now is the time to support those globally who work to prevent future generations from becoming disconnected from nature. We live in a world in which incredible wildlife exists, and I want that for the generations that follow. I want my children to live in a world where swallows still migrate, gorillas still live in the cloud forests of Uganda, and rhinos still roam the arid rangelands of Namibia.
“It will be thanks to extraordinary leaders – such as those that we are celebrating today – that this will happen. They remind us of the importance of living at peace with nature; they should guide and inspire us all to drive change,” the Prince of Wales stated.
Nick Bubb, CEO of Tusk, emphasized the critical role of conservationists in protecting Africa’s biodiversity.
“Africa is still rich in animal, plant, and marine biodiversity. Tusk’s vision is a future where the continent’s wildlife and human communities not only coexist peacefully, but positively thrive. Tonight we once again celebrate the remarkable, courageous, and committed individuals on the ground who safeguard Africa’s natural heritage day and night, and who demonstrate to us all the power of understanding, respecting, and protecting the natural world,” the CEO remarked.
Hendrik du Toit, Founder and Chief Executive of Ninety One, also spoke about the urgent need for continued conservation efforts, stressing the precarious state of the natural world.
“The endless degradation of the natural world is pushing our planet dangerously close to a series of tipping points that will lead to a less hospitable Earth for people and wildlife.
“Congratulations to all of those who have been recognized at the Tusk Awards. Their dedication to conservation plays a vital role in preserving Africa’s endangered environments and species, and it is essential that we continue to support their unwavering commitment to this task.”
The 12th edition of the awards, organized in partnership with Ninety One, an Anglo-South African asset management firm, was hosted for the second year running by wildlife biologist and presenter Liz Bonnin.
Previous winners of the Tusk Wildlife Ranger Award include Jealous Mpofu from Zimbabwe (2023), Neddy Mulimo from Zambia (2022), Suleiman Saidu from Nigeria (2021), Amos Gwema from Zimbabwe (2020), Benson Kanyembo from Zambia (2019), Julius Obwona from Uganda (2018), Solomon Chidunuka from Zambia and Lucky Ndlovu from South Africa(2017), Manuel Sacaia from Angola (2016) and Edward Ndiritu from Kenya (2015).
The report, which analyzes private market transactions across the continent, highlights the continued vibrancy of Africa’s private capital landscape.
In Q3 2024, a total of 73 private market deals were recorded, with 39 of them disclosing a combined value of $2.27 billion.
Rwanda stood out in East Africa, contributing to 37% of the region’s private market transactions, making it the second-most active country in the region after Kenya.
Overall, Rwanda emerged 5th on the continent with 15% share of total African deals while Southern Africa accounted for the largest share of private market activity in Q3 2024.
Rwanda was recently ranked as the safest investment destination in East Africa in the ninth edition of the Africa Risk-Reward Index 2024, thanks to the country’s strong security and investment-friendly policies.
Key initiatives include the development of industrial parks, advancements in technology, and the expansion of infrastructure.
At the tender age of ten, he would sit outside his home in Banda village in Nyamasheke District, often wandering along the edge of Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda’s largest national park, renowned for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. The cacophony of bird calls and the soft rustle of primates moving through the undergrowth constantly piqued his curiosity.
During weekends and school holidays, he played with his mates but often paused to admire the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) staff as they ventured into the dense canopy of Nyungwe Forest. They were engaged in conservation activities under the Projet Conservation de la Forêt de Nyungwe (PCFN).
Some of the staff were his neighbours, and Claver Ntoyinkima dreamed of one day joining their ranks.
In the early 1990s, one of his older brothers was recruited to work with WCS, further fueling Claver’s ambition to be part of a team that mitigated threats to the forest and promoted its conservation.
“My brother used to educate the whole family on why we have to conserve the forest. So, I was really interested,” Claver recalls with nostalgia.
As he grew older, his passion for conservation deepened. He got his first opportunity to work in the park while in secondary school, where he assisted researchers and cleaners during school holidays. He also founded and led his school’s environmental club, collaborating with PCFN leaders who often took students into the forest to learn about conservation.
“I worked closely with the PCFN leaders and managers. They would bring their cars to the school, take us to the forest, explain everything, and then bring us back,” he remembers.
After completing secondary school, Claver trained as a teacher and worked as a primary school teacher for one and a half years. However, his passion for conservation led him to transition first to a multilingual receptionist role at the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and later, in 2000, to the position of park ranger and tourist guide.
Twenty-four years later, his steadfast commitment to preserving the natural world has earned him international recognition. He was recently selected as the sole global winner of the prestigious Tusk Wildlife Ranger Award for his work on bird and primate conservation in Nyungwe National Park.
The 51-year-old father of four will be honoured on November 27, 2024, in London at a ceremony addressed by Prince William and attended by other category winners from across Africa.
Over the past decade, the Tusk Wildlife Ranger Awards have celebrated African conservation heroes, recognizing the dedication and risks rangers face daily to protect wildlife and fragile ecosystems.
Previous winners include Jealous Mpofu from Zimbabwe (2023), Neddy Mulimo from Zambia (2022), Suleiman Saidu from Nigeria (2021), and Amos Gwema from Zimbabwe (2020). This year, the award celebrates Claver’s contributions to Nyungwe National Park, where he has risen through the ranks to become a Senior Ranger and Guide.
Throughout his career, Claver’s diligence, hard work, and honesty have earned him the respect of colleagues and the community. Some of his notable achievements include habituating colobus monkeys and chimpanzees and launching birdwatching clubs at schools surrounding the park, such as GS Gisakura. Through these clubs, he mentors students to develop a deeper understanding of and commitment to protecting Nyungwe’s ecosystem which includes over 300 bird species.
“Some students from the birdwatching clubs have gone on to become park rangers and guides,” notes Protais Niyigaba, the park manager.
Niyigaba describes Claver as a selfless conservationist whose initiatives have reduced poaching and overdependence on park resources.
“Claver is a naturalist. Born near the park, even his name, Ntoyinkima, reflects his connection to wildlife—it means ‘I’ve luckily found a monkey.’ His work bridges the needs of the community and the park, promoting coexistence,” he says.
Claver has accomplished this through initiatives such as providing goats to local communities in Nyamasheke and promoting goat farming as an alternative to poaching. He also supported the establishment of a cooperative for former poachers, now trained as freelance guides, enabling them to earn livelihoods connected to conservation.
With more than two decades of experience, Claver is known for his expertise, kindness, and mentorship. He collaborates with researchers and shares his extensive knowledge, particularly on bird conservation, contributing to research projects across Rwanda, including those in Volcanoes and Akagera National Parks.
“These initiatives improve livelihoods while protecting nature. Claver doesn’t just do his job for a salary—he goes beyond, creating opportunities for his community,” Niyigaba adds.
Additionally, local communities benefit from government projects funded through tourism revenue-sharing programs, such as constructing classrooms and water infrastructure. These efforts have promoted a sense of ownership and responsibility for conserving the park.
“Now, the communities see the park as a source of support. Some even help control poaching by others who don’t yet understand,” Claver explains.
Claver’s award includes 30,000 pounds (approximately Frw51 million) prize, which he plans to reinvest in community projects.
“There are projects I couldn’t achieve due to limited resources. This award will allow me to take those projects forward and encourage more community involvement in conservation,” he says with optimism.
This is Claver’s first international award and his second overall. In 2007, he received the Rhinoceros Recognition for his conservation efforts.
Recently incorporated into the Volcanoes National Park, Buhanga is not only a haven of natural beauty but also a sacred place steeped in the traditions of Rwanda’s monarchy.
Buhanga Eco Park is a site of historical and cultural importance. Its name, derived from the Kinyarwanda word for “creation,” reflects its profound significance in Rwandan tradition. Legend holds that this forest is where Rwanda’s first king, Gihanga, established the kingdom. For centuries, it served as the coronation ground for Rwandan kings, making it a revered place tied to the country’s origins.
The forest has remained pristine due to its sacred status. Tall Ficus and Drago trees form a lush canopy, creating a serene environment where visitors can wander along trails paved with lava stones. The atmosphere is alive with the sounds of birds and the fluttering of butterflies, adding to the park’s enchanting appeal. It is a sanctuary where nature thrives in harmony with the echoes of history.
Buhanga is home to many remarkable features, including caves and a natural spring called Gihanda. This spring, named after King Gihanga, was integral to the coronation rituals.
Kings would bathe in its waters as part of a ceremonial cleansing before being anointed and crowned. The lava rock platform where they received the instruments of power still stands, surrounded by tales of the blessings and protection the site offered to the kingdom.
Walking through the forest, visitors encounter ancient trees like the “Unity Tree,” or Inyabutatu ya Rwanda, which appears as three trunks intertwined into one. This tree symbolizes the unity of the Rwandan people and serves as a powerful reminder of the country’s shared heritage. Other ancient trees, such as Umusando and Ibigabiro, contribute to the park’s timeless aura, some of them standing tall for over 300 years.
Beyond its cultural significance, Buhanga Eco Park offers a serene escape into nature. The forest is home to species like jackals, porcupines, leopards, and a variety of birds and butterflies. It provides a tranquil environment for anyone seeking peace, adventure, or a deeper connection to Rwanda’s past.
A visit to this sacred forest is a journey into the heart of the country’s identity, where the beauty of nature and the echoes of ancient rituals come together to create an unforgettable experience. For anyone exploring Rwanda, Buhanga is a destination not to be missed.
This small but ecologically diverse country is home to over 700 recorded bird species, including some of the continent’s most sought-after and rare birds.
From lush montane rainforests and tranquil wetlands to rolling savannahs and shimmering lakes, Rwanda’s varied landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for birding adventures.
What sets Rwanda apart is its accessibility and safety. The compact size of the country allows travelers to explore multiple birding hotspots within a short time frame, while its excellent infrastructure and expert local guides ensure a seamless and enriching experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder chasing rare species or a beginner eager to explore, Rwanda is a destination that promises unforgettable encounters with its vibrant avian life.
Here are Rwanda’s top birdwatching sites, each offering a unique glimpse into the country’s exceptional biodiversity.
{{1. Nyungwe National Park}}
Nestled in southwestern Rwanda, Nyungwe National Park is a tropical montane rainforest renowned for its incredible biodiversity. Home to over 300 bird species, it offers birders a chance to spot rare and endemic species.
The Red-collared Babbler is the park’s crowning jewel. Other must-see species include the Rwenzori Turaco, Handsome Francolin, Grauer’s Warbler, and the colorful Regal and Purple-breasted Sunbirds.
With well-maintained trails and expert guides, Nyungwe provides an enriching birding adventure. For the lucky few, rarities like the Congo Bay Owl and Shelley’s Crimsonwing might make an appearance.
{{2. Akagera National Park}}
In the east, Akagera National Park blends savannah, wetlands, and woodland habitats, creating a vibrant ecosystem for over 400 bird species.
Known for its traditional “Big Five” safari experiences, Akagera also boasts a rich birdlife, with highlights including the range-restricted Red-faced Barbet and the majestic Shoebill.
A boat trip on Lake Ihema is a must for spotting waterbirds like the African Finfoot. Night drives add a layer of excitement, with the potential to see Verreaux’s Eagle Owl and nightjars.
{{3. Volcanoes National Park}}
Volcanoes National Park, famed for its Mountain Gorillas, also hosts an impressive avian population, including 17 Albertine Rift Endemics.
For birders, the Scarlet-tufted Sunbird is a unique attraction, best spotted on a trek to Mount Bisoke’s summit. Nearby lakes and Buhanga Eco-Park further enrich the birdwatching opportunities.
{{4. Gishwati-Mukura National Park}}
Rwanda’s newest national park, Gishwati-Mukura, is a symbol of conservation and biodiversity.
Located in the mountains above Lake Kivu, it hosts over 230 bird species, including the Black-fronted Duiker.
The ongoing rehabilitation of this park promises even greater birdwatching potential in the years to come.
{{5. Lake Kivu}}
Lake Kivu’s tranquil shores are a refreshing stop for birders. The lake supports large populations of White-breasted Cormorants and Pied Kingfishers, while hotel gardens in Karongi and Rubavu provide sightings of species like the Double-toothed Barbet and Yellow-bellied Waxbill. The Kinunu area is particularly rewarding for spotting common terrestrial birds.
{{6. Wetlands}}
Rwanda’s wetlands cover 10% of the country, offering habitats for numerous bird species.
Key sites like Rugezi Marsh, Akanyaru, and Nyabarongo Wetlands are designated Important Bird Areas by BirdLife International.
In 2006, Rugezi Marsh was designated a Ramsar site, joining a global network of wetlands protected under the Ramsar Convention, signed in 1971 and enacted in 1975.
The marsh supports populations of Grauer’s Swamp Warbler and Grey-crowned Cranes.
In the Bugesera District, wetlands and lakes offer accessible birding with sightings of Papyrus Gonolek, White-backed Duck, and Lesser Jacana.
{{7. Kigali: Urban birding at its best}}
Even Rwanda’s bustling capital, Kigali, offers remarkable birding opportunities. Nyarutarama Lake, known locally as “Lover’s Lake,” and the recently inaugurated Nyandungu Ecopark are urban oases for birdwatchers.
Species like African Swamphen, Narina Trogon, and Bat Hawk are commonly spotted, making Kigali an excellent starting point for any birding itinerary.
For a close encounter with rescued Grey-crowned Cranes, Umusambi Village is a must-visit, offering a unique blend of conservation and education.
Whether you are an avid birder or a casual nature enthusiast, Rwanda offers an unforgettable journey into the world of avian beauty.
