Conservation efforts can learn from Rwanda’s park expansion and UK rewilding

Growing up in Mukamira, Nyabihu district, Western Province, Rwanda, I witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of landslides, erosion and harsh weather on crops and livestock. These challenges had a profound effect on my community’s livelihood, which inspired me to seek solutions. As a student, I was an active member of environmental clubs and led efforts to plant 500 trees on eroded hills in my village. Today, when I return home, I am proud to see how our efforts have transformed the once-barren landscape into a lush, green environment.

Although my humble beginnings may not immediately suggest global impact, I believe that even a single voice advocating for urgent biodiversity conservation and restoration can inspire many others. I see this work as urgent given the devastating effects of climatic change. In 2022 I witnessed this firsthand when I saw the effects of prolonged drought on communities in Laikipia county, Kenya. Today, I am deeply committed to advocating for the protection and sustainable use of natural resources, which are essential for preserving biodiversity for future generations.

For me, working in the Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is a dream come true. The park’s diverse vegetation zones and unique animal species, including the magnificent mountain gorillas, have strengthened my resolve to protect this special place.

The Volcanoes National Park is a place of incredible natural beauty. As you enter, you are greeted by tall trees such as Hagenia abyssinica, thick bamboo, and bright, fresh shades of green all around. The air is cool and earthy, filled with the sounds of birds, rustling leaves, and the distant sight of five towering volcanoes often shrouded in mist. The park’s tranquillity combined with the presence of mountain gorillas — gentle giants with expressive eyes — creates a deep connection to nature. Every moment in the park feels like a gift, and it is clear why protecting this ecosystem is so important.

My journey began as a research assistant at the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, collecting behavioural and health data on the gorillas and tracking them in their natural habitat. Today, as the data and operations coordinator, I am involved in training field teams and working on anti-poaching efforts. These efforts have led to a substantial reduction in illegal activities, with only 600 snares being found and removed in 2018, versus 1,000 snares in previous years; the Rwandan government’s revenue-sharing scheme, in which 10% of the park’s tourism revenue is shared with local communities, has also had a crucial role in fostering support for conservation¹.

I am honoured to work with mountain gorillas, the only great apes whose numbers are increasing in the wild². However, their habitat remains limited. To ensure their continued survival, the Rwandan government initiated the expansion of the park by 23% in 2018. This project is a model of sustainable conservation, which will transform former agricultural lands into protected areas that benefit a wide range of biodiversity, including plants, birds and invertebrates. By increasing the park’s size, the project aims to create a more resilient environment, which is essential for the long-term survival of these species.

The sustainability of this expansion project is ensured through careful environmental studies. These studies focus on soil adaptability and environmental conditions, which are critical for the successful reintroduction of native plant species. By understanding the ecosystem’s specific needs, the project minimizes risks and ensures that the newly reintroduced plants will thrive and support the wildlife that depends on them. This thoughtful approach to environmental management demonstrates a commitment to creating a sustainable and self-sufficient ecosystem that can withstand climate change and human impact.

Local communities also have a pivotal role in the success of this conservation effort. By engaging with local people and understanding their attitudes towards the park expansion, the project fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility. Providing alternative livelihoods, such as eco-tourism and sustainable agriculture, ensures that the economic needs of the local population are met. This approach reduces the likelihood of conflicts over land use and promotes harmony between conservation goals and community wellbeing.

The success of this ambitious project depends on collaboration between various partners, including conservation organizations, the government of Rwanda and international donors. Organizations such as The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, International Gorilla Conservation Programme, Gorilla Doctors and the African Wildlife Foundation bring invaluable expertise and resources to the project. Their involvement ensures that best practices in conservation are applied and contribute to research, monitoring and on-the-ground efforts.

Moreover, the Rwandan government’s leadership highlights its commitment to conservation and sustainable development. By creating policies that favour the expansion of protected areas and the protection of biodiversity, the government ensures that the conservation gains made today will be preserved for future generations. Donors ensure the financial support necessary to implement key activities, such as environmental studies, community engagement and land acquisition.

To gain further insight into conservation efforts, I was awarded a Leventis Fellowship at the University of Oxford. During my three-month term, I visited the Knepp Rewilding Project in the UK. This was a transformative experience that instilled in me the hope for the success of park expansion.

At Knepp, diverse wildlife habitats have been successfully restored to an area formerly used for intensive agriculture; now, animals including birds, pigs, deer, and dam-building beavers freely roam the site, which covers 3,500 acres of land that was once farmed. The decision to rewild this area was taken by Charlie and Isabelle Burrell, who later were joined by other farmers. The community decided to give back their land for hosting biodiversity.

At the Knepp Site. Photo Courtesy James Munyawera

When exploring Knepp by foot, I felt a deep sense of connection to nature, with the sounds of wildlife and the sight of diverse landscapes filling my senses. The atmosphere tends to be tranquil, with wide open spaces with fresh air and a variety of habitats — from wetlands to woodlands. A visit to Knepp can evoke feelings of hope and possibility, and showcases the power of nature to heal and regenerate when given the chance.

The parallels between the Knepp Rewilding Project and the Volcanoes National Park expansion fill me with hope for the future of biodiversity. Both projects demonstrate the transformative power of collective action in restoring ecosystems. I have a firm belief in the dedication of individuals and communities who are committed to preserving our natural heritage. By fostering a shared responsibility for conservation, we can pave the way for a brighter, greener future for generations to come.