'Rwanda is your home, you are always welcome,' President Kagame tells guests at Kwita Izina #rwanda #RwOT

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 â€" 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%.