Businesses supported by Akagera National Park generated more than Rwf800 million (approximately $555,242) in 2025, benefiting around 1,200 cooperative members living in communities neighboring the park.
According to park management, the revenue was distributed among members of various cooperatives operating in sectors such as beekeeping and fishing.
Beekeeping cooperatives produced over 17 tonnes of honey valued at more than Rwf100 million, while fishing cooperatives generated upwards of Rwf170 million during the year.
Separately, the park recorded more than Rwf900 million in revenue from tourism and related commercial activities.
Under Rwanda’s tourism revenue-sharing scheme, $886,379 has been earmarked for the 2025/2026 fiscal year to finance new community development projects scheduled for implementation in 2026.
For the same fiscal year, Rwf1.285 billion in tourism revenue is projected to be distributed to communities surrounding the park in Kayonza District, Nyagatare District and Rwamagana District.
Visitor numbers also rose in 2025. The park welcomed 59,538 tourists, generating $5.06 million in revenue.
Figures released by African Parks, which manages the park, show that 51,769 of the visitors were paying guests—an 8 percent increase compared to 2024.
Rwandan nationals accounted for 47 percent of visitors, international tourists made up another 47 percent, while foreign residents living in Rwanda represented 6 percent.
Overall, both visitation and revenue posted steady growth, underscoring the park’s expanding role in supporting conservation and community livelihoods.
