Rwanda Development Board

 

On 5th September, 2015, the Rwanda Development Board will host the eleventh Kwita Izina, naming 24 baby gorillas, the newest arrivals born after last year’s ceremony. 

 

This year’s Kwita Izina will take place as we embark on carrying out another general census of the gorilla population in the Virunga Massif following the one that was carried out in 2010. In 2010, the gorilla population registered a 26,3% growth in a period of 7 years from 2003.

The theme for Kwita Izina 2015 is conserving now and for the future.

 

 

The private sector has explored expansive business opportunities around conservation efforts that have been harnessed into ongoing profitable and viable business ventures. As a result, the tourism sector has registered continued growth through attracting international hospitality brands and businesses. Since 2007, tourism has been the leading sector in foreign exchange earnings for the country. The objective is to grow tourism revenues by 25% per annum as projected in the Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategy 2. 

 

The 11th Kwita Izina will be a week-long ceremony encompassing activities such as: 

A Conversation on Conservation 1st – 2nd September: This high level Forum, whose target audience is policy makers, conservationists, philanthropists, civil society, business and community stakeholders, will provide a platform to network and exchange ideas on the future of wildlife conservation in Rwanda. Along the side-lines of the forum, there will be an exhibition showcasing conservation success through art, photography, business, education and community involvement. As the highlight of this, two leaders in Conservation will have a conversation with the audience of what has achievements and challenges in sustainable conservation and Tourism. 

 

A photo exhibition 1st-2nd September: This conservation photography exhibition will feature images that tell the most inspiring and impactful stories. It will take you on a journey through conservation’s biggest triumphs and arm you with the knowledge to make a difference. It will feature photographs of one of the best wildlife photographers in the world Suha Derbent. 

 

Familiarisation Trip and Regional Tourism Business to Business Forum 28th August- 6th September: In the spirit of engaging the private sector and maintain the momentum of increasing tourism revenues, a customised familiarisation trip will be organised for selected regional and international travel writers and tour and travel operators. The trip will give an opportunity to new and ongoing tourism operators to explore and become familiar with Rwandan tourism experiences. It is hoped that from the trip, they will start packaging and selling Rwanda as a destination to their markets. The trip will be followed by a Business to Business meeting and concluded by a gala dinner that will announce deals sealed. 

 

Launch of a Community Project 2nd September: During the eleventh Kwita Izina, one of the community projects that were developed through the Tourism Revenue Sharing scheme will be launched. A Public Library, with support from the Dianne Fossey Foundation, was set up in order for the public to access conservation and responsible tourism information. 

 

Community Igitaramo 4th September: The famous community party (Igitaramo) will be held on the evening prior to the main naming ceremony. Rwandan traditional dances, story -telling and cultural performances will highlight this evening. 

 

Naming Ceremony: 5th September: The gorilla naming ceremony characterised with entertainment and renditions from local entertainers, is the climax of the Kwita Izina week. It will be celebrated in Kinigi where names will be given to the 24 baby gorillas. This is an exciting and once in a lifetime event that attracts close to twenty thousand people. At a reasonable fee, breakfast and snacks will be available at the site for all participants and guests. During and after the naming ceremony the following activities are planned: 

 

o Kwita Izina Awards: The awards will be launched during the eleventh Kwita Izina and will be given every two years to recognizese local conservationists for their lifetime achievements and contributions to the wildlife conservation and tourism. This award will be given by the Rwanda Development Board to celebrate wildlife conservation and tourism achievements that have had a significant impact in improving of tourism and the protection of the wildlife globally. 

 

o Business Exhibition: The exhibition will bring together exhibitors from the business community. The Kinigi Community Complex will exhibit and sell their products which include; honey, handicrafts and interactive weaving sessions. It will also provide an opportunity for operators to sell packages, hotels to showcase their services and provide refreshments that people can buy and for the participants to acquire souvenirs.