Rwanda Signs Cross-Border Agreement to Protect Migratory Cranes

The Rwanda Wildlife Conservation Association (RWCA) has signed cooperation agreements with four conservation organizations in Burundi, Tanzania, and Uganda to strengthen the protection of migratory cranes that regularly cross into these countries. The agreements were concluded in Kigali on November 21, 2025, during RWCA’s celebration of its 10th anniversary.

Representatives from partner organizations-including Nature Uganda, the International Crane Foundation (Uganda), Nature Tanzania, and the Association Burundaise pour la Protection de la Nature-joined RWCA in formalizing a regional conservation framework. The collaboration will focus on safeguarding 24,904 square kilometers of shared wetland ecosystems.

A joint survey conducted this year revealed the scale of wetlands requiring protection:

1,030 wetlands in Rwanda (82% of the national total),

787 wetlands in Uganda,

266 in Tanzania,

19 in Burundi,

all forming part of interconnected ecosystems frequented by migratory cranes and other wetland species.

RWCA Director General and founder Dr. Olivier Nsengimana noted that cranes and other species are increasingly crossing borders, particularly from wetlands near Akagera, Akanyaru, and Kagitumba. Many do not return, raising concerns about their safety on the other side, especially in wetlands affected by agriculture.

“Some of the cranes equipped with GPS trackers move into neighboring countries, which is why cooperation with local institutions is essential,”Dr. Nsengimana explained, adding that the agreements will facilitate information sharing, community awareness, and joint monitoring.

He emphasized that tracking wildlife across borders comes with logistical barriers-including permits and travel restrictions-making regional collaboration the most practical solution.

Reflecting on RWCA’s first decade, Dr. Nsengimana highlighted significant progress: Rwanda’s wild crane population has risen from fewer than 300 in 2015 to 1,245 today, supported by a conservation team that has grown from five volunteers to 300 permanent staff.

Fidèle Bingwa, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, commended RWCA’s impact, noting that its consistent results have encouraged the government to deepen its commitment to wildlife protection.