Rwanda hosts week-long program of activities every September to create awareness for the protection of the country’s mountain gorillas, Kwita Izina includes a conference and workshops, the highlight being the naming ceremony for the gorillas born in Volcanoes National Park in the past year.
Guests assemble in the huge silverback-shaped bamboo stage and assign each gorilla with chosen name determined by the baby's behaviour and unique traits. Rwandans believe this will play a prominent role in shaping the baby gorilla’s futures.
Kwita Izina attracts thousands of visitors and conservationists to the ceremony held near the town of Kinigi located at the foothills of Virunga Mountains. The festivities include traditional music, dancing and performances by local artists.
It is estimated that each mountain gorilla generates about $3 million in its lifetime through sale of trekking permits. This revenue helps to support protection and conservation of Volcanoes National Park. 10% of the tourism revenue is shared with the local communities. The locals are employed as vets, researchers, trackers, porters and guides, while others are employed in the safari lodges and camps.
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