KETHA Community Participates in Rwanda’s 20th Kwita Izina Gorilla Naming Ceremony

By The Inspirer.

Kinigi, Musanze – September 5, 2025 – Kigali Excellent Tourism and Hospitality Academy (KETHA) joined global leaders, celebrities, and conservationists at the 20th anniversary of Kwita Izina, Rwanda’s internationally renowned Gorilla Naming Ceremony.

The academy was represented by its principal, a trainer and students, highlighting the role of education in shaping the future of sustainable tourism.

Dr. Alphonse Habimana, Principal of KETHA, said the ceremony underscored the importance of preparing young people to lead Rwanda’s tourism sector with a focus on conservation.

“As we celebrate the 20th Kwita Izina, we empower our students to take the lead in shaping future generations and building sustainable tourism for Rwanda and the world,” Dr. Habimana said.

For students, the event provided valuable lessons beyond the classroom.

Briana Teta Mutangana, a Level 5 Tourism student, said attending Kwita Izina deepened her understanding of the economic and cultural value of gorillas.

“I learnt the value of the gorilla in general but mostly in tourism. When you give something value and protect it, it comes back to you with more income than you spent,” she said.

Sam Kiviri, Trainer and expert in Job Coaching Skills, emphasized the connection between conservation and education.

“My main takeaway is how important it is to protect gorillas and nature, and how tourism can support both conservation and communities. I’m inspired to involve students more in learning about tourism and conservation,” he said.

Kiviri also noted that Kwita Izina created opportunities for networking and inspiration.

“Attending Kwita Izina was a special chance to see how Rwanda mixes nature, culture, and tourism to protect gorillas. I also got to see famous people like Arsenal and PSG players, whom I used to watch on TV, name the baby gorillas. The event brings many people from tourism and conservation together, giving me good opportunities to meet and connect with others.”

The ceremony, held at the foot of Volcanoes National Park, was marked by major conservation announcements.

Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva revealed Rwanda’s plan to expand gorilla habitat by nearly 25 percent, framing it as both an ecological necessity and a development opportunity.

“As the gorilla families grow, we must expand their habitat. This bold plan will ensure the next generation of gorillas has a secure home while also improving the lives of surrounding communities,” Nsengiyumva said.

The Prime Minister highlighted the role of ecotourism in Rwanda’s economic growth, noting that gorilla tourism alone generated more than $200 million in 2024, out of $647 million earned by the wider tourism sector.

Jean-Guy Afrika, Chief Executive of the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), praised Rwanda’s conservation milestones, including the reintroduction of lions and rhinos and the world’s largest translocation of 70 white rhinos in 2025.

Northern Province Governor Maurice Mugabowagahunde welcomed the government’s plan, stressing local commitment to biodiversity conservation.

For KETHA, participation in Kwita Izina reinforced its mission to prepare future tourism professionals who will champion conservation and sustainable development.

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