Over the years, Rwanda has implemented a range of strategiesâ€"integrating community involvement, cutting-edge technology, and strong tourism frameworksâ€"ensuring these creatures not only survive but thrive.
Mountain gorillas, which are primarily found in the Volcanoes National Park, have seen a remarkable population increase. Thanks to years of concentrated conservation efforts, the global population of mountain gorillas has risen to 1,063, with 604 of these living in the Virunga Mountain range, which includes Rwanda.
In the 1980s, the species was on the brink of extinction, with fewer than 250 individuals remaining. Rwanda, which is home to Volcanoes National Park, has been a leader in this recovery.
One of the cornerstones of Rwanda's success in gorilla conservation is its revenue-sharing program. For years, a portion of the income generated by gorilla tourism has been reinvested into the communities surrounding Volcanoes National Park.
This program is built on the premise that local communities should benefit directly from the preservation of these endangered animals.
In 2023, gorilla tourism generated a staggering $650 million, a 35% increase from the previous year, marking another significant milestone for the tourism sector. This growth is largely attributed to the increasing number of tourists visiting Rwanda's gorilla sites, with 25,927 visitors in 2023â€"a 29.4% increase from the previous year.
With the number of tourists steadily growing, this revenue has been reinvested into infrastructure and community projects.
Since 2005, the Rwandan government has invested over Frw10 billion in improving the livelihoods of those living near the parks, funding projects such as schools, healthcare facilities, water systems, and sanitation.
The government also increased the revenue-sharing percentage from 5% to 10% in 2017, ensuring that communities continue to directly benefit from the thriving tourism sector.
Beyond direct financial benefits, Rwanda's conservation efforts have been supported by a range of research institutions, including the renowned Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. This organization plays a vital role in tracking gorilla populations, educating the public about the importance of conservation, and assisting in the protection of the animals from poachers.
Their efforts, along with those of local rangers and conservationists, have been instrumental in the survival and growth of the mountain gorilla population.
In addition to these long-standing conservation measures, Rwanda has embraced innovative solutions to further safeguard its gorillas. The government recently introduced an AI-powered initiative called "Interspecies Money."
This unique program enables tourists to make symbolic financial contributions during real-time interactions with the gorillas via digital wallets, similar to mobile money platforms like MoMo.
The funds collected through this initiative are used to protect gorilla habitats and improve their overall well-being, offering an innovative way for tourists to contribute directly to conservation while enhancing their experience.
Rwanda's annual Kwita Izina ceremony, now in its 20th year, has also played a pivotal role in the conservation story.
This event, which involves the naming of newborn gorillas, celebrates the progress of the conservation efforts and serves to raise awareness about the importance of protecting the species.
Since its inception, 395 baby gorillas have been named during the ceremony. The event draws global attention, attracting celebrities, conservationists, and dignitaries who come together to celebrate Rwanda's achievements in gorilla conservation.
It's a symbolic moment that connects the global community to Rwanda's efforts and reminds everyone of the importance of sustaining these efforts for generations to come.
Rwanda's use of technology has also been integral in advancing its conservation efforts. In addition to traditional monitoring methods, the country has pioneered the use of GPS tracking collars, camera traps, and drones to keep a close eye on the gorillas and their habitats.
These tools allow conservationists to monitor the animals in real-time, detect illegal activities, and assess the health of the park's ecosystem.
In fact, daily staff membersâ€"149 in totalâ€"work in the high-altitude forests of Volcanoes National Park to monitor the gorillas and ensure their safety. Another 27 staff members assist tourists, ensuring that both the animals and visitors have a safe and enriching experience.
Looking ahead, Rwanda's tourism sector is projected to continue expanding. The country's goal is to generate $1.1 billion in revenue by 2024 under the second phase of its National Strategy for Transformation (NST2).
As the demand for eco-tourism grows, the Rwandan government remains committed to ensuring that the benefits of gorilla tourism are shared with local communities, supporting their development and creating new opportunities.
Rwanda's conservation efforts are not limited to gorillas but extend to broader environmental protection strategies. By ensuring the long-term sustainability of its protected areas, Rwanda is positioning itself as a model for other nations striving to balance wildlife protection with economic development.
The country's success demonstrates that with thoughtful planning, innovative solutions, and community involvement, it is possible to create a future where both endangered species and human communities can thrive side by side.
Théophile Niyitegeka
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/inside-rwanda-s-gorilla-conservation-efforts
