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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
Rania Umutoni
