Rwanda
Rwanda is home to our Karisoke Research Center since 1967 and is one of three countries in Africa where mountain gorillas live.
About Rwanda
- Most densely populated country in Africa
- One of the smallest countries in Africa geographically, roughly the size of Maryland
- Areas of wildlife contained in four national parks, protected by the Rwanda Development Board
- Varied terrain, including volcanic mountains as high as 14,000 feet (Mt. Karisimbi), as well as deep valleys, grassland, rivers and lakes
Mountain Gorilla Status
- The mountain gorilla population is critically small, with only about 1,000 individuals remaining, making them one of the most-endangered animals on earth.
- In Rwanda, the gorillas are limited to a small island of forest surrounded by people. The human population density around the gorillas’ habitat is among the highest in Africa.
- Local populations still depend on the forest for some resources, such as water, wood and food, which puts pressure on the small remaining habitat.
Goals
- Continue work with the Rwandan government to protect the mountain gorillas from threats to their survival.
- Train the next generation of local scientists and conservationists locally.
- Help educate local communities about gorillas, conservation and their role in protecting natural resources.
- Help communities thrive through education and livelihood efforts.
- Conduct cutting-edge science aimed at developing effective conservation strategies.
Challenges
- Mountain gorillas live in a limited protected area, surrounded by human communities.
- Mountain gorilla population is critically small, with fewer than 880 individuals remaining, one of the most-endangered animals on earth.
- Mountain gorillas are limited to an area of forest surrounded by people. Local populations still depend on the forest for some resources, such as water, wood and food.
