Rwanda Invests Rwf23 Billion in Communities Around National Parks

Kigali, 11 August 2026 - More than Rwf23 billion has been invested in approximately 1,300 community development projects through Rwanda’s national park revenue-sharing program, supporting communities living near protected areas.

The initiative allocates 10% of revenue generated by national parks to projects aimed at improving livelihoods and access to essential services. According to the Rwanda Nature Foundation, the funding has supported the construction of schools, health centres, water infrastructure, roads and other community facilities.

Rwanda’s tourism sector has continued to expand, generating more than $685 million in revenue in 2025, compared with $647 million in 2024. Volcanoes National Park accounted for nearly 88% of the revenue generated by the country’s national parks, contributing more than $35.8 million in 2025.

Northern Province Governor Mugabowagahunde Maurice said communities around Volcanoes National Park have benefited from projects providing schools, electricity, water, markets and roads, with additional initiatives including model villages planned.

He said the visible benefits have strengthened public support for conservation, with local residents increasingly participating in efforts to combat poaching and activities that threaten the park’s biodiversity.

The park has also contributed to the growth of tourism-related businesses in the region. Northern Province now has more than 50 hotels rated at star level, many located near Volcanoes National Park to accommodate visitors coming to see the mountain gorillas.

The revenue-sharing program was launched in 2005, initially allocating 5% of national park revenues to surrounding communities. The share was increased to 10% in 2017, expanding the resources available for community development and conservation-linked projects.