By Seif Shaggy Gracien Hasingizwimana/Kigali/Rwanda,
The Akagera National Park performance report for January to March 2026 reveals that revenues from tourism and commercial activities reached $1,337,000. This momentum represents an 8% increase compared to the same period in 2025, driven by 11,700 visitors, including a significant number of Rwandans.
Located in Eastern Rwanda along the border with Tanzania, the park spans the districts of Kayonza, Gatsibo, and Nyagatare. Management attributed the revenue growth to the ‘Visit Rwanda’ campaign and the park’s recognition by National Geographic as one of the top 25 global destinations to visit in 2026.
To protect over 11,300 animals within its 1,122-square-kilometer area, the park conducted scientific operations in February. These included fitting tracking devices (GPS and VHF collars) on three lions, one elephant, 17 white rhinos, and eight black rhinos. Additionally, a population management exercise was carried out where five lionesses received contraceptive treatments to balance the ecosystem of the park, which is home to the “Big Five.”
Regarding security, intensified patrols led to the arrest of seven suspected poachers and the removal of 23 snares from the park. This economic growth also extended to neighboring communities, where local activities—including fishing, beekeeping, and independent tour guiding—generated $168,226.83. Furthermore, the park invested $158,277 in purchasing services and goods from local cooperatives comprising over 2,900 members, reinforcing the impact of the park, established in 1934, on the development of its surrounding residents.
