The Kwita Izina Gorilla Naming Ceremony is a one-of-a-kind event that takes place in the country of Rwanda. Kwita Izina was created to celebrate the birth of newborn mountain gorillas! The ceremony is based upon the Rwandan custom of naming their children while being surrounded by friends and family. Kwita Izina began officially in 2005 as a way to celebrate the birth of baby gorillas and raise awareness for conservation efforts for these majestic and endangered animals.
Taking place in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, the ceremony serves as an opportunity to thank local communities, research partners, vets, and the dedicated professionals who protect the gorillas. Over the last 17 years, 328 mountain gorillas have been named during the ceremony. Last year, special guests and conservation partners named 24 baby gorillas.
A few of the baby gorilla names from 2021:
- Ingabire - 'Gift'
- Umusingi - 'Foundation'
- Byiruka - 'Flourish'
- Mubyeyi - 'Mother'
- Urusobe - 'Diversity'
- Iribagiza - 'Pretty'
- Twirinde - 'Protection'
- Zigama - 'Saving'
In honor of the upcoming 202022 Kwita Izina Festival, let's celebrate with a one-of-a-kind free coloring page.
Want more? Check out our Kwita Izina 'Seek N Find' Puzzle!
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