Zipline expands partnership in Rwanda to boost economic development, wildlife conservation

The new partnership will help fund conservation of crucial ecological resources in Rwanda. Twenty percent (20%) of the fee paid for every delivery completed by Zipline within Rwanda’s tourism sector will go towards the expansion of Volcanoes National Park, an initiative to expand the protected habitat of Rwanda’s mountain gorillas and other endangered species.

This initiative expands on Zipline’s long-standing collaboration with the Government of Rwanda.
Since 2016, Zipline has partnered with the Ministry of Health, the Rwanda Agricultural Board, the National Child Development Agency, the Rwanda Biomedical Center and other agencies to improve access to blood, animal health products, human vaccines, childhood nutrition products and medical supplies through 24/7, on-demand logistics.

“We are elated to join forces with the Rwanda Development Board, broadening the horizons of our drone delivery services far beyond the realm of medical supplies,” says Pierre Kayitana, General Manager of Zipline Rwanda.

According to Kayitana, this initiative allows Zipline, in collaboration with handpicked ‘Made in Rwanda’ brands, to deliver local gifts directly to tourists even in the most remote corners of Rwanda.

“Made in Rwanda” products include fashion and souvenir items created by a vetted list of local business owners.

This initiative aims to boost local businesses, enhance the visibility of Rwandan products, and contribute to the growth of the nation’s creative economy. The delivery service will first be available to guests at high-end Wilderness resorts and the UMVA Muhazi Lodge.

Commenting on the development; Francis Gatare, CEO of the Rwanda Development Board said: “This partnership underscores our dedication to collaborating closely with private sector entities such as Zipline, to advance environmental conservation, stimulate economic development, and foster a culture of innovation.”

The partnership continues to position Rwanda as a global leader in embracing innovative solutions for the betterment of people and natural wildlife.