Akagera National Park adds 43 elephants to its census in 2025

By The Inspirer.

Akagera National Park has reported the addition of 43 elephants to its official population records in 2025, as part of ongoing efforts to monitor and protect the park’s wildlife.

The new additions include 25 female and 18 male elephants, each now registered with detailed identification, including photographs and distinguishing features.

With this update, 106 elephants—61 females and 45 males—are now individually tracked, representing over 75% of the park’s total elephant population of 142.

Park authorities say the census is a key tool in improving wildlife management and strengthening conservation strategies across Rwanda’s eastern savannah.

Akagera, established in 1934 and spanning 1,122 square kilometers, is home to some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, impalas, topis, bushbucks, and over 500 other species, including rare birds.

Tourism in the park continues to grow, with 56,219 visitors recorded in 2024, a 3.83% increase from the previous year.

The park has undergone significant restoration over the last 30 years following poaching challenges, and today, its wildlife populations are steadily recovering.