This groundbreaking initiative, set to be realized by 2028, will establish the Islands National Park as Rwanda's fifth national park. It complements the existing Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe National Park, Akagera National Park, and Gishwati-Mukura National Park.
The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) has revealed that the park will offer unique opportunities for birdwatching, sports, golf, traditional medicine experiences, and more eco-friendly recreational activities.
Juliana Muganza, Deputy CEO of RDB, unveiled the plan on Tuesday, June 17, during her presentation to the Senate Committee on Social Welfare and Human Rights. She disclosed that the park will consist of selected islands in Lake Kivu, alongside another in Bugesera District.
Muganza emphasized the findings from research on Lake Kivu’s islands, which point to their immense ecological richness—a prime condition for specialized biodiversity conservation areas.
The Ministry of Environment stressed the importance of safeguarding unique and endangered species found exclusively in Rwanda. Iconic examples include the swamp cat, also known as the "water rabbit," and the Umuyenzi w’umutuku tree, both classified among conservation priorities due to their fragile statuses.
Other remarkable findings highlighted significant species like the Red-chested Cuckoo, the forest rooster, and rare wildlife such as forest mice and exclusive snakes. Plants such as the Umusave, vital for traditional medicine, also gained notable attention in these studies.
These conservation efforts have been facilitated through collaboration between the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA) and the Ministry of Environment, focusing on documenting biodiversity, evaluating human activities, and crafting sustainable strategies for protection.
Juliana Muganza stressed the significance of ongoing data collection for future planning, stating: “RDB is dedicated to preserving the biodiversity of Rwanda’s islands through comprehensive, research-driven initiatives.”
Senator Jean Pierre Dusingizemungu expressed optimism about the islands’ potential for driving sustainable economic growth via eco-tourism and green development. He proposed projects like traditional medicine cultivation, beekeeping, and water sports.
Juliet Kabera, Director-General of REMA, reaffirmed that parts of these islands could be leased to investors for environmentally friendly ventures, such as honey production or coastal sports. She noted how these initiatives could uplift local communities affected by resettlement from some of these islands.
Senator André Twahirwa proposed that the islands should also serve as academic resources, enabling student-driven biodiversity research. He remarked, “While Rwandans often admire international landmarks, they are less aware of the invaluable natural riches we possess locally.”
The Senate Committee underscored that the proposed park would not only safeguard biodiversity but also act as an environmental education center, a cornerstone for sustainable development, and a source of jobs and learning opportunities for youth.
The Ministry of Environment has identified eight islands with permanent inhabitants—Nkombo, Ishywa, Gihaya, Bugarura, Iwawa, Kirehe, Mushungo, and Birwa. These islands will continue to host residents as they already provide essential infrastructure, including schools, hospitals, electricity, and homes.
In contrast, smaller islands such as Ruzi (housing 22 families), Muzira (15 families), and Tereri (5 families) are under government ownership, with plans underway to relocate residents closer to urban areas for better access to services.
Rwanda boasts a total of 153 islands, of which 19 are privately owned by citizens, while the remaining 138 remain uninhabited, showcasing a wealth of untouched ecological wonders.
The Deputy CEO of RDB affirmed that the Islands National Park will be officially launched no later than 2028, marking an exciting milestone for Rwanda's eco-tourism and conservation efforts.