Rwanda’s population of endangered Mountain gorillas – a major contributor to the country’s tourism industry – has grown by 26% over the past six years, and another 20 baby gorillas, along with a new gorilla family, were recently christened at the country’s 18th annual Kwita Izina Gorilla Naming Ceremony.
The globally recognised conservation event was attended by a host of distinguished guests including Prince Charleswho joined virtually, global leaders, philanthropists, conservationists and celebrities. Renowned primatologist Dr Jane Goodall also shared a message to mark the occasion.
In addition to naming the 20 baby gorillas, a newly formed Mountain gorilla family was given the name Kwisanga (meaning ‘Feel at Home’ in the local Kinyarwanda language).
“The act of giving a name to baby gorillas is a symbol of Rwanda’s commitment to these majestic animals, and our belief in the power of nature to be a force for socio-economic transformation. Today, Rwanda is home to one-third of the world’s remaining Mountain gorillas and the population is increasing every year,” said Rwanda’s Prime Minister, Édouard Ngirente.
“Our natural ecosystems and national parks represent an important natural and cultural heritage that we hold in trust for future generations. Our key challenge now, and in the future, is to sustain and maintain these natural ecosystems.”
CEO of the Rwanda Development Board, Clare Akamanzi added: “In Rwanda, we have witnessed the benefits of deliberate, consistent and comprehensive conservation by the Government of Rwanda and our valuable conservation partners. In our recent census, the Mountain gorilla population had grown by 26% over six years. The 20 baby gorillas we have given names to today add to that sustainable future. And the presence of all of you today individually and collectively help to secure their future.”
2022 Kwita Izina gorilla baby names
Ubwuzuzanye – ‘Harmony’
Kwibohora – ‘Liberation’
Nyirindekwe – ‘Protector’
Imbaduko – ‘Vivacity’
Ubusugire – ‘Integrity’
Intare – ‘Lion’
Ubwitange – ‘Sacrifice’
Ruragendwa – ‘Hospitable’
Ihuriro – ‘Hub’
Ikuzo – ‘Admirable’
Indatezuka – ‘Resilient’
Turikumwe – ‘We Are Together’
Igicumbi – ‘Sanctuary’
Indangagaciro – ‘Values’
Muganga Mwiza – ‘Good Doctor’
Baho – ‘Live’
Imararungu – ‘Cheerful’
Impanda – ‘Trumpet’
Kwanda – ‘Expand’
Ishami – ‘Offspring’
Gorilla family: Kwisanga – ‘Feel At Home’
