RDB warns of rising poaching in Volcanoes National Park

By The Inspirer.

The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) has warned of a sharp increase in wildlife poaching in Volcanoes National Park, citing a growing number of animal traps recovered in the protected area.

According to RDB data, 2,200 traps were seized in 2023, more than 2,300 in 2024, and 2,336 by October 2025. The 2025 figures approach levels last recorded in 2009 and are significantly higher than the 446 traps reported in 2019.

Colonel Steven Kayigumire, commander of the 505 Brigade operating in Musanze, Gakenke, and Burera districts, said poaching activities have intensified and are causing financial losses to the country.

“If we fail to act decisively, the country risks losing more than Rwf 500 million due to poaching,” Kayigumire said.

RDB’s Director in charge of National Parks Conservation, Ngoga Télesphore, said poaching levels recorded in the first 10 months of 2025 have already exceeded those of the entire previous year.

“It is unacceptable that communities benefiting from the park are also involved in its destruction,” Ngoga said, calling for increased public cooperation with conservation authorities.

Northern Province Governor Maurice Mugabowagahunde said government institutions are coordinating efforts to curb the increase in poaching, describing the situation as concerning.

Officials said six mountain gorillas were caught in poachers’ traps last year.

Kinigi sector recorded the highest number of traps, with more than 800 recovered, followed by Bugeshi with over 500, Kabatwa with more than 300, and Gataraga with 287.

Authorities have arrested 38 suspected hunters and poachers in connection with the illegal activities, and legal proceedings are ongoing.

Local leaders in sectors bordering Volcanoes National Park said the cause of the recent rise in poaching remains unclear but noted that measures are being implemented to address the problem.