Beyond conservation, the park is also a source of employment. Management reports that more than 6,000 people have benefited from jobs linked to the development and maintenance of its facilities, including constructing walkways, building infrastructure, planting trees, removing invasive species, and ensuring cleanliness.
Visitor numbers have continued to grow. In 2024, the park attracted over 76,000 visitors, up from 69,222 in 2023. Between January and July 2025 alone, more than 56,000 people had already visited. This increase has translated into higher revenues, with Frw 158 million generated during the same seven-month period.
Encouraged by these results, park management is preparing to launch new projects aimed at enhancing the visitor experience and boosting tourism appeal. Planned additions include animals, electric buggies, and new walking and cycling paths.
'We intend to expand trails for tourists who prefer walking, cycling, or using electric scooters,' park officials told IGIHE.
'We will increase the number of bicycles and scooters and introduce electric buggies for those who wish to tour the park while seated. We are also conducting a feasibility study to introduce herbivorous animals, and we plan to host conferences that align with biodiversity conservation.'
The park also plans to introduce art installations, innovative structures, and digital tools to enhance learning about biodiversity. Interactive displays and creative facilities are expected to provide engaging experiences for both children and adults. Additionally, the innovation center will support young people through training programs designed to build skills in creativity and environmental stewardship.
Future projects include establishing eco-camping facilities to allow visitors to spend nights in tents, offering professional photography services, and adding more benches for relaxation and social interaction.
Management has also outlined initiatives to support surrounding communities in Nyarugunga, Ndera, and Kimironko sectors, focusing on income-generating activities through cooperatives.
Currently, the park is open from morning until 6 p.m., but plans are underway to extend closing hours to 9 p.m. in response to visitor demand.
Nyandungu Park was officially opened in July 2022 after six years of wetland restoration. Spanning 121 hectaresâ€"70 hectares of wetland and 50 hectares of forestâ€"it is home to more than 60 plant species and over 200 bird species.
The park features a medicinal plant garden, the 'Pope's Garden,' five fish ponds, three swimming ponds, a visitor centre, a modern restaurant, and a 10-kilometre trail for walking and cycling.
IGIHE
