Established in 1934 as a national park, Akagera is one of Central Africa’s largest protected wetlands and Rwanda’s last remaining refuge for savannah-adapted species.
In 2010, the Rwandan Government invited African Parks to partner with the Rwanda Development Board in managing Akagera, to support its conservation efforts and desire to utilise tourism as a driver for economic improvement. Since then, with effective management and wildlife conservation methods in place, Akagera has become home to abundant and thriving populations of wildlife species. Lion were reintroduced in 2015, eastern black rhino in 2017 and 2019, and 30 southern white rhino in 2021. Building on these results, an additional 70 southern white rhino, were introduced in June 2025 as part of the Rhino Rewild Initiative.
Monitoring and research have continued to provide deeper insights into conservation efforts, while surveys, in particular amphibian and reptile surveys, have helped add new species to the park’s records. Almost 500 bird species have also been documented, promoting Akagera as an important ornithological site.
Besides becoming a haven for wildlife, the park’s support for income-generating enterprises for local communities has grown remarkably with local initiatives accelerating economic development, advancing the benefits of a conservation-led economy. Over 18,000 community members participate annually in gatherings to discuss conservation and human-wildlife conflict issues, and environmental education is reaching over 2,000 students each year.
Akagera’s tourism has become a major generator of revenue for the park, earning 97% of the park’s total annual revenue in 2024, with 45% of visitors being Rwandan. Flowing directly back into the park, these funds further stimulate the local economy through job creation and other sustainable development projects. Additionally, 10% of the park’s income is allocated to Rwanda’s revenue-sharing scheme, which supports community development through local projects, including schools, healthcare facilities and cooperatives.
Today, Akagera National Park continues its work with surrounding communities, bringing economic and social benefits, allowing the ecosystem and people to thrive together.
