Virunga National Park Welcomes New Mountain Gorilla in Mapuwa Family

Goma, January 20, 2026 - Virunga National Park announced the birth of a male mountain gorilla to Sebutimbiri, a female in the Mapuwa family. This marks the second birth recorded in the park this year.

With this addition, the Mapuwa family now numbers 28 individuals. The birth occurred in the Mikeno sector, one of the key habitats for mountain gorillas within the park.

The park highlighted the significance of the birth for both social dynamics within gorilla groups and broader conservation programs aimed at supporting this endangered species. International partners, including the European Union and UNESCO, continue to support efforts to protect these primates.

Earlier in January, Virunga National Park reported another milestone: the first twin birth of the year, which occurred on January 3, bringing attention to the park’s ongoing successes in conservation despite challenges.

Virunga National Park, established in 1925 on the border between Rwanda and Uganda, is Africa’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Covering 7,800 km² in North Kivu province, the park hosts exceptional biodiversity.

The global population of mountain gorillas is estimated at 1,063, with around 350 individuals residing in Virunga, according to 2021 estimates. However, the park faces continued threats from armed clashes between FARDC and AFC/M23 rebels, which endanger both ecosystems and conservation teams.