On such occasion, thousands of people from Rwanda and several other nations gather at the foot of the Virunga Mountains to witness the occasion where specially invited guests name baby gorillas born in the wild misty mountains of Rwanda.

A news release from the Rwanda Office of Tourism and National Parks (ORTPN) which is organizing the ceremony on behalf of the government terms Kwita Izina ceremony as, “a conscious effort to celebrate conservation success and community development, as we strive to protect the remaining population of less than 800 mountain gorillas.”

This event was launched by the Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame and his wife in 2005 by naming the first twin gorillas ever born in the wild. Since then, exciting arrays of local and international dignitaries have participated in this event including ambassadors accredited to Rwanda; international conservationists, individuals and organizations; Hollywood star Natalie Portman, officials from renowned TV channels such as Animal Planet, Discovery channel and business leaders among others.

Gorilla Tourism represents the best attraction in the Region. In Rwanda, the conservation of biodiversity has been a major concern since the colonial era, with the creation of the three national parks that harbour rich natural resources and exceptional tourist opportunities.

Keywords: bushmeat nature rwanda