On 5 September 2025, Rwanda celebrated the 20th edition of Kwita Izina, its iconic gorilla naming ceremony, at the foothills of Volcanoes National Park. The event gathered government leaders, diplomats, celebrities, business figures, conservationists, and thousands of community members. Distinguished attendees included First Lady Jeannette Kagame, Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva, and Rwanda Development Board CEO Jean-Guy Afrika.
This year, 40 baby gorillas were named, including 22 from 2023 and 18 born between 2024 and 2025. Naming honors were given by international leaders, artists, football icons, conservation advocates, and local rangers.
Since 2005, Kwita Izina has grown into a national celebration rooted in Rwanda’s tradition of naming newborns. Bringing together communities, global visitors, and conservation partners, the event has named 438 baby gorillas over two decades. It also marks a conservation milestone: mountain gorillas are the only great ape species whose population is increasing.
Today, Kwita Izina stands as both a symbol of Rwanda’s conservation success and Africa’s leading platform for dialogue on wildlife protection and sustainable tourism.
