Rwanda Eyes National Island Park by 2028 in Bold Eco-Tourism Move
Rwanda is setting its sights on a bold new frontier in eco-tourism: a National Island Park that could reshape the country’s environmental and economic landscape by 2028.
The announcement was made by Juliana Kangeli Muganza, Deputy CEO of the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), on June 17, 2025, during a presentation to the Senate’s Committee on Social Affairs and Human Rights.
“It is evident that the islands, which host unique ecosystems, could be consolidated into a significant area, or a National Island Park, in the near future,” said Muganza.
🌱 Why the Islands? Unique Biodiversity, Untapped Potential
Research conducted with key partners has revealed that Rwanda’s islands possess rare ecosystems—making them perfect candidates for national park status.
But while the vision is exciting, Muganza also acknowledged several key challenges:
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❌ Lack of infrastructure
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❌ Land registration issues
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❌ Weak transport networks
The goal, she emphasized, is to create a development model that benefits both nature and local communities.
🌍 “More Than Just Gorillas” – Senators Want Big Eco-Tourism Impact
Senator Jean Pierre Dusingizemungu passionately endorsed the idea, suggesting Rwanda’s islands could become high-value tourism destinations, potentially outperforming even its world-famous mountain gorilla attractions.
“These islands have history, biodiversity, and economic potential. I believe they can contribute more than the gorillas,” he said.
He proposed leveraging the islands for:
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Medicinal plant research
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Beekeeping
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Cattle farming
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Cultural tourism
🛶 What Makes This Ambitious? A New Kind of National Park
If realized, the National Island Park would complement Rwanda’s existing crown jewels:
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Volcanoes National Park 🦍
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Akagera National Park 🐘
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Nyungwe National Park 🌳
Each attracts thousands of eco-conscious travelers — and the islands would bring water-based, heritage-focused, and research-driven tourism into the national spotlight.
📈 Tourism Already on the Rise
Rwanda's tourism sector is already booming:
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$647 million in revenue generated in 2024
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📊 4.3% increase from the previous year
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🦍 27% boost in gorilla tourism
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✈️ 11% growth in air travel
🤝 Call for Inclusive Planning
Senator Niyomugabo Cyprien emphasized that development must ensure communities on the islands benefit directly.
Committee Chairperson Umuhire Adrie echoed the need for thoughtful planning and long-term sustainability.
"These islands must be prepared with the people in mind — culturally, economically, and environmentally," she stated.