Rwanda celebrated the 20th edition of its renowned Gorilla Naming Ceremony on September 6, 2025, with 40 baby gorillas from 15 families officially receiving names. The event drew thousands of locals and international visitors, highlighting Rwanda’s commitment to wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism.
Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva, the ceremony’s chief guest, urged communities to continue protecting gorillas, describing them as a “valuable national asset.” He emphasized that park expansions and community projects linked to conservation directly benefit local livelihoods.
Among the high-profile participants:
- Michelle Yeoh Todt, Malaysian Oscar-winning actress, named a gorilla Rwogere, noting the name reflects Rwanda’s leadership in environmental conservation.
- Jean Todt, French motorsport executive and UN Special Envoy for Road Safety, named a gorilla Ruvugiro, underscoring the ceremony’s role in promoting coexistence between humans and wildlife.
- Javier Pastore, Argentine footballer, named a gorilla Ganza.
- Yemi Alade, Nigerian Afropop star, named a gorilla Kundwa.
- David S. Marriott, chairman of Marriott International, named a gorilla Rugwiro.
Other participants included royalty, global conservationists, and international business leaders, collectively emphasizing the global importance of Rwanda’s conservation efforts.
The ceremony also featured cultural performances by Eric Senderi, Kivumbi King, Ariel Wayz, Chriss Eazy, and Bruce Melodie, adding a festive atmosphere to the meaningful occasion.
Since its inception, the naming ceremony has honored 438 gorillas, fostering both cultural pride and tourism-driven community development. Rwanda’s approach has become a model for wildlife conservation and sustainable engagement worldwide.
