Rwf 5.5 Billion to Be Invested in Development Projects for Communities Living Near Rwanda’s National Parks.

The money comes under an RDB initiative that allocates 10% of revenue generated from tourism in national parks to development projects carried out for communities living around the parks. 

Jean-Guy Afrika announced it on August 27, 2026, during the launch of the construction of an environmentally friendly model village in Kinigi Sector, Musanze District, Northern Province.

According to figures provided by RDB, in 2025, Rwanda’s national parks received 155,394 visitors, generating US$40.8 million in revenue for the country. Of this amount, Volcanoes National Park alone generated US$35.8 million.

Of the Rwf 5.5 billion to be invested in development projects for communities living near national parks, approximately Rwf 2 billion will be invested in the four districts bordering Volcanoes National Park. 

Musanze and Nyabihu districts will each receive Rwf 659.8 million, while Burera District will receive Rwf 494.8 million, and Rubavu District will receive Rwf 164.9 million. 

Since Rwanda began allocating 10% of national park tourism revenue to development projects benefiting communities living near the parks, more than Rwf 23 billion has been invested in over 1,300 community development projects over the past 20 years, according to Jean-Guy Afrika. 

Explaining the purpose of these projects, the RDB CEO said:

“These projects have focused on activities that benefit entire communities, including education, healthcare, water supply, and other infrastructure that contributes to their well-being.”

Jean-Guy Afrika also highlighted the impact of the 10% revenue-sharing programme, saying that it has made local communities important partners in environmental conservation and tourism development. 

“These activities demonstrate that when communities benefit from protecting the environment, they become passionate about conservation. Tourism develops, and their living conditions improve as well,” he said. 

The construction of the model village is part of the Rwandan government’s efforts to expand Volcanoes National Park, allowing gorillas to grow and live in a larger, more spacious habitat. 

The village is expected to accommodate 547 families and will include a health centre, school, hotel, and other infrastructure intended to support residents in improving their livelihoods. 

The launch of the environmentally friendly model village comes just days before the 21st edition of Kwita Izina, Rwanda’s annual gorilla-naming ceremony. The event is scheduled to take place in Kinigi, Musanze District, Northern Province, on September 4, 2026.