Rwanda will hold its annual gorilla naming ceremony, Kwita Izina, on Sept. 4, 2026, in Kinigi Sector near Volcanoes National Park in Musanze District, the Rwanda Development Board said Monday.
The 21st edition of the event will bring together government officials, conservationists and local communities to name newborn mountain gorillas and spotlight conservation efforts in the Virunga mountain range.
The announcement comes as Rwanda reports continued growth in its tourism industry, which remains a key driver of foreign exchange earnings. Official figures show tourism revenue rose to $685 million in 2025, up 6% from $647 million in 2024. Visitor arrivals increased 9% over the same period, reaching 1.49 million.
Volcanoes National Park, home to Rwanda’s mountain gorillas, continues to be the country’s leading tourist attraction, alongside other national parks that draw visitors for wildlife experiences.
Since Kwita Izina was launched in 2005, 435 baby gorillas have been named through the ceremony, which authorities say has helped strengthen conservation awareness and community involvement around protected areas.
At the 2025 edition of the event, 40 baby gorillas from 15 different groups were named. The ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva, with First Lady Jeannette Kagame also in attendance.
Rwanda continues to position gorilla tourism as a high-value conservation model. Gorilla trekking permits cost $1,500 for foreign tourists, $500 for foreign residents in Rwanda, $200 for Rwandan citizens and East African Community nationals, and $500 for other African and international residents living on the continent.
