Kwita Izina Rwanda | Gorilla Naming Ceremony

To help gorillas feel connected to humans, they are given names during a celebration called “Kwita Izina.” This ceremony was originally used to name children in Rwanda. Recently, the Rwandan government started officially naming mountain gorillas to show how much they are valued.

This helps change the country’s image from one known for conflict to one known for tourism and wildlife conservation. In the past, park rangers and researchers named the gorillas quietly, without any ceremony. But in 2025, a special event was created to raise awareness about gorilla conservation worldwide. Over 20,000 guests, including important people from around the world, attend the Kwita Izina ceremony.

In the last 19 years, 397 mountain gorillas have been named in this colorful ceremony. Kwita Izina has a long history in Rwandan culture, where newborn babies are named and dedicated to the land. The ceremony includes family and community members who promise to guide the child as they grow.

Long ago, children were raised by the whole community to ensure they learned their culture well. Today, parents usually raise children on their own. This old tradition from the Banyankole people was adopted by gorilla conservationists. The ceremony happens every September near Volcanoes National Park, in a village called Kinigi, located on the slopes of the Volcanoes Mountains.

The main reason for naming the gorillas is to easily identify them within their families. Gorillas look a lot like humans, and some even share similar facial features, so names help tell them apart.

Naming also helps park rangers, guides, and researchers watch their daily behavior and health. It is easier to know if a gorilla is missing. Also, people can donate money or even adopt a named gorilla to help support conservation.

The Kwita Izina ceremony is a special event you should not miss.

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