Visit Rwanda Promotes Conservation Efforts at SoFi Stadium Event

Elias Hakizimana Jul 26, 2024 0 Comments

By The Inspirer.

Visit Rwanda hosted an exclusive event titled ‘Conversation on Community-led Conservation’ at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on Thursday, July 25. This event coincided with Arsenal’s USA Summer Tour and featured club legends Gilberto Silva and Theo Walcott.

The event aimed to promote Rwanda’s eco-tourism, raise awareness about conservation efforts, and support the upcoming 20th Kwita Izina gorilla naming ceremony. Attendees included conservation partners, leading tourism and travel operators, commercial partners, and friends of Rwanda.

Francis Gatare, Chief Executive Officer of the Rwanda Development Board, welcomed guests and expressed gratitude to the partners supporting Rwanda’s conservation and community-focused efforts. “Their contributions ensure a thriving wildlife habitat and tourism ecosystem,” he stated.

Ariella Kageruka, Head of Tourism and Conservation at the Rwanda Development Board, highlighted the significant progress made in mountain gorilla conservation. “As a result of the conservation efforts of the government and its partners, mountain gorillas were down-listed from critically endangered to endangered. Mountain gorillas are the only great ape population that is increasing anywhere in the world,” she noted.

Edwin Tambara of the African Wildlife Foundation emphasized the importance of Volcanoes National Park. “Volcanoes National Park is not only special because it is one of only three homes of mountain gorillas but also for its legacy of bold action to conserve gorillas in their natural habitat,” he remarked.

The event underscored the successful collaboration between Visit Rwanda and Arsenal, highlighting the importance of eco-tourism and community-centred conservation efforts. Additional events are scheduled during Arsenal’s tour, from July 24 to August 1, to engage with fans, partners, business executives, and entrepreneurs from the technology, creative, and entertainment industries.