Rwanda sets September 4 for 21st Kwita Izina gorilla naming ceremony

By The Inspirer.

Rwanda has announced that the 21st edition of the annual Kwita Izina gorilla naming ceremony will take place on September 4, 2026.

The announcement was made by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), noting that the event will be held in Kinigi, Musanze District, and is expected to attract thousands of participants, including Rwandans, international guests, and stakeholders from the tourism and conservation sectors.

Kwita Izina is Rwanda’s flagship conservation event, during which newborn mountain gorillas are officially named. The ceremony highlights the role of communities in wildlife conservation and the protection of mountain gorillas and their natural habitat.

Over the years, the event has evolved into a global platform promoting sustainable tourism and showcasing Rwanda’s conservation efforts.

During the 20th edition held in 2025, a total of 40 baby gorillas from 15 families were named in a ceremony attended by prominent international figures.

Among them was Michelle Yeoh, alongside David S. Marriott, Sang-Hyup Kim, and Suzan Chin, among others.

Organisers say this year’s edition is expected to further strengthen global conservation partnerships and raise awareness on the protection of endangered mountain gorillas.