The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) has announced that the 21st edition of Kwita Izina, the country’s annual gorilla naming ceremony, will take place on September 4, 2026, in Kinigi, Musanze District.
The flagship conservation event will bring together thousands of participants, including Rwandans and international guests, as well as stakeholders from the tourism and conservation sectors.
Kwita Izina is a globally recognised ceremony in which newborn mountain gorillas are officially named, symbolising Rwanda’s community-based approach to wildlife conservation and environmental protection.
The event has also become a key platform for promoting sustainable tourism and showcasing Rwanda’s long-term commitment to safeguarding mountain gorillas and their natural habitat.
During the 20th edition held last year, 40 baby gorillas from 15 families were named in a ceremony attended by prominent global figures.
Among the guests were Malaysian actress and UN environmental advocate Michelle Yeoh, American business leader David S. Marriott, Global Green Growth Institute Director-General Sang-Hyup Kim, and Suzan Chin of the Wildlife Conservation Society, among others.
Organisers say preparations are underway for this year’s edition, which is expected to further strengthen global conservation partnerships and raise awareness on the protection of endangered mountain gorillas.
