Akagera National Park, the largest protected wetland in Central Africa, stands as the last bastion for savannah-adapted species in Rwanda. This remarkable park, once on the brink of ruin over two decades ago, has undergone a transformative revival. The devastating impact of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi left Akagera in a dire state, making its resurgence a testament to effective conservation efforts.

In 2010, a pivotal partnership between African Parks and the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) began steering Akagera towards a future of prosperity and hope. Their shared vision aimed to transform a landscape plagued by over 30,000 cattle into a thriving, income-generating sanctuary benefiting both people and wildlife. Key to this transformation were robust conservation law enforcement and strong community engagement, which virtually eradicated poaching within five years. This paved the way for the reintroduction of lions and black rhinos between 2015 and 2017, and white rhinos in 2021. Consequently, Akagera’s wildlife population has flourished, growing from fewer than 5,000 animals in 2010 to nearly 12,000 today.

Beyond its success in wildlife conservation, Akagera has become a vital source of economic support for local communities. Through various income-generating enterprises and revenue-sharing schemes, the park contributed nearly US$1 million to surrounding communities in 2022. This symbiotic relationship continues to thrive, bringing both ecological and social benefits.

Key Highlights of Akagera National Park:

• White Rhino Translocation: In 2021, 30 southern white rhinos were translocated from South Africa and released into Akagera in 2022. Their successful adaptation is evidenced by the birth of several calves.
• Gishanda Fish Farm: Opened in October 2022, this innovative project, located 10km from Akagera, sustainably farms tilapia, benefiting both communities and the ecosystem.
• Conservation Success: Through effective community engagement and stringent law enforcement, Akagera has not lost a single high-value species to poaching since 2010.
• Educational Initiatives: Each year, nearly 2,000 schoolchildren and 350 local leaders visit Akagera as part of an environmental education programme.
• Tourism Growth: 2022 marked the best year for tourism in Akagera, with 34,000 paying visitors and 92% of operating costs covered by park revenue. Since 2010, Rwandan citizens have comprised an average of 46% of paying guests, highlighting the park’s national significance.

Over the past two decades, Akagera has significantly contributed to community development and biodiversity restoration in Rwanda. With ongoing support, the park is nearing full financial self-sufficiency through burgeoning tourism and local enterprise projects. Today, Akagera is home to a thriving wildlife population, including Rwanda’s only rhino population.