Today, September 5, Rwanda celebrates their 20th Kwita Izina – the baby gorilla naming ceremony and annual tribute to the country’s long committment to mountain gorilla conservation. Gorilla Doctors was honored to have Dr. Gaspard Nzayisenga, our senior field veterinarian in Rwanda be selected to name one of the infant mountain gorillas! We sat down with Dr. Gaspard to learn more –

1)    Can you tell us a little about the meaning and history of Kwita Izina?
Kwita Izina is a traditional Rwandan ceremony that translates to “naming the newborn baby.” The Gorilla Naming “Kwita Izina,” Ceremony began in 2005 to promote gorilla conservation and celebrate Rwanda’s growing mountain gorilla population.

This celebration is held annually to honor the newborn mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, a vital habitat for these endangered species, and to engage the local and international community in conservation efforts and awareness. It also symbolizes the nation’s commitment to conservation and sustainability, while also promoting tourism and community involvement in protecting their environment.

2)    2025 is the 20th anniversary of Kwita Izina. It is a big honor to be asked to name one of the infant gorillas. How did it feel when you were asked?

It was a tremendous honor to be asked to name one of the infant gorillas during the 20th anniversary of Kwita Izina. I felt a deep sense of responsibility and excitement, knowing that this tradition not only highlights the importance of conservation but also celebrates the connection between the community and these magnificent creatures. It was a moment filled with joy and pride, reflecting the significance of our efforts to protect wildlife.

3)    What name did you choose for your infant and what does it mean?
The name I chose is “Unguka,” meaning “Gain” in English.

4)    What made you choose this name?
I chose this name to honor the mother, Ruhuka and her group, Matsike-Cyuzuzo who have experienced the heartache of losing infants in previous years. The birth of this beautiful baby is considered a remarkable gift, symbolizing hope and renewal for both the mother and the group. The arrival of this infant not only brings joy but also strengthens bonds, while fostering resilience and optimism for the future.

5)    Mountain gorillas are the only great ape in the wild whose numbers are increasing. Kwita Izina recognizes and celebrates the importance of conservation and Rwanda’s leadership in contributing to this conservation success. Tell us a little more about this and how it feels to be part of an international effort to protect and preserve these magnificent animals today and for future generations.

Mountain gorillas, indeed, stand out as a beacon of hope in wildlife conservation. Their population increase, primarily due to dedicated conservation initiatives, is a testament to the effectiveness of global and local efforts. Kwita Izina symbolizes not just a celebration of these incredible animals but also a commitment to their preservation and the sustainable development of their habitats.

Being part of this international effort feels empowering and crucial. It emphasizes the impact of collaboration, education, and advocacy. Knowing that our actions today can ensure the survival of mountain gorillas for future generations brings a profound sense of purpose.

Through community engagement and support for conservation programs, we can foster a sense of stewardship towards these magnificent creatures. It’s not just about protecting them; it’s about creating a legacy of biodiversity and natural beauty for years to come.

WATCH the recording of the Kwita Izina ceremony on the Visit Rwanda YouTube Channel.

READ this great article listing all the honorees from around the world selected to name one of 40 infant mountain gorillas (22 infants are from 2023 when the naming ceremony had to be postponed and 18 are from the past year, 2024 – 2025). Dr. Gaspard is the 9th listed!

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