Kwita Izina 2023: Conservation is life

“Kwita Izina” is a Rwandan cultural and conservation ceremony that celebrates the naming of newly born mountain gorilla babies. This event is a significant part of Rwanda’s efforts to protect and conserve these critically endangered animals. The name “Kwita Izina” means “to give a name” in Kinyarwanda, which is Rwanda’s official language.

During the Kwita Izina ceremony, dignitaries, conservationists, and local communities come together to name the baby gorillas. Each gorilla is given a unique name, often chosen to reflect their personality, appearance, or circumstances of their birth. This naming ceremony not only helps create a personal connection between the gorillas and the local communities but also raises awareness about the importance of gorilla conservation and the need to protect their habitat.

Rwanda has been successful in increasing the population of mountain gorillas in the Volcanoes National Park through dedicated conservation efforts. Kwita Izina serves as a way to showcase this success and highlight the ongoing conservation work being done to protect these majestic creatures. The event typically features speeches, traditional music and dance performances, and the official naming of the gorillas.

Kwita Izina has gained international recognition and has become an important event in Rwanda’s efforts to promote wildlife conservation and ecotourism.