Illegal Poaching Threatens Rwanda’s Wildlife and Public Health

Nyamasheke, July 9, 2026 - Rwandan authorities have warned that crimes committed in national parks pose risks beyond environmental destruction, emphasizing that illegal hunting and unauthorized entry into protected areas can increase the spread of zoonotic diseases such as Ebola, Marburg and mpox.

Officials reported that since 2020, hundreds of suspects have been arrested for damaging Nyungwe National Park, but many are released before trial.

They argued that environmental crimes are often treated too lightly despite their lasting impact on endangered wildlife and fragile ecosystems.

Authorities stressed that contact between humans and wild animals can facilitate the transmission of infectious diseases, noting that many major outbreaks originate from wildlife.

They called for stronger enforcement of environmental laws and greater recognition of the importance of protecting Rwanda’s national parks for biodiversity, public health and sustainable development.