Just yesterday, on September 5th, Rwanda marked a triumphant milestone: the 20th anniversary of Kwita Izina—the nation's annual baby gorilla naming ceremony. Forty playful little infants were bestowed with their names, an incredible eighteen of whom were born in the last twelve months. It feels beautifully synergistic that we at ROAR AFRICA are also celebrating our 20th anniversary this year, having supported the work of the park and its rangers since the day our business was founded. I can’t help but become emotional when I think how much bravery and commitment it took for these precious primates, who share 98.3% of our DNA, to reach this critical tipping point. Two decades of ceaseless determination. Two decades of triumph of a difficult past. Two decades of watching hope take root in the misty rainforest canopies of Volcanoes National Park.
When this ceremony began in 2005, only 370 mountain gorillas remained in the wild. Their numbers decimated by colonialism, trophy hunting, poaching and habitat destruction. Today, per the most recent 2019 census, approximately 604 thrive in Rwanda, with 1,063 spread across the entire Virunga Massif. These growing numbers are no accident. Instead, this conservation success story is down to the vision and hard work of the late Dian Fossey and her colleagues. A legacy that continues with Dr Tara Stoinski and the fellow primatologists, conservationists and guests supporting the Fossey Center campus today.
For those who have journeyed with ROAR AFRICA into the emerald stillness of Volcanoes National Park, you never forget the moment you meet your first gorilla family. As you nestle into the trees and bushes, your eyes drink it all in: a knowing silverback keeping a protective eye on his clan, little infants tumbling amongst the greenery, teenagers swinging off branches, mothers resting.Time stops. Your breath slows. Your heart pounds. The DNA we share with our primate cousins is clear as we observe their fingers, their wise eyes, and singular nose prints. However, it’s the gorillas’ capacity for loyalty, love, and survival against impossible odds that takes root in your heart, reflecting the very best of our humanity.
Whether you're seventeen or seventy-five, trekking on foot or with assistance on a stretcher through the forest, this life-changing encounter is physically accessible to everyone. It’s a rarified experience wrapped in love, care and expert guidance from our team on the ground and in the spectacular lodges we partner with, like the inimitable Singita Kwitonda and One & Only Gorillas Nest. Not only is the journey to meet the gorillas immeasurably transformative, but the opportunity also to explore Rwanda’s diverse beauty and complex history with ROAR AFRICA’s insider access is one not to be missed.
In a world heavy with environmental despair, Rwanda's mountain gorillas stand as living proof that dedication and unwavering commitment can rewrite the story of a species. As Chief Warden Prosper Uwingeli reminds us: "Every gorilla born is a victory over extinction, every naming ceremony a celebration of hope." Wise words indeed.
To experience Rwanda’s wild mountain gorillas and the spectacular beauty of Volcanoes National Park, kindly contact welcome@roarafrica.com or click here. Note this journey is in high demand with limited park passes available annually.
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