Akagera National Park - Rwanda

Akagera National Park has been an African Parks project since 2010 and totals 1,122 KM2.  Akagera's rolling highlands, savannah plains and swamp-fringed lakes make up the largest protected wetland in central Africa, and the last remaining refuge for savannah-adapted animal sand plants in Rwanda.  Akagera is home to an impressive array of wildlife, including a number of rare species such as the shoebill and sitatunga.  Akagera is well on track to becoming Rwanda's only Big Five park and a premiere tourism destination, which is helping the park become financially self-sustaining.

The stats....

• Seven Lions reintroduced in August 2015;
• Seven Lion cubs born in May 2016;
• The number of locals employed by the park increased from 59 in 2010 to 220 in 2014.

The Highlights

• In 2015 seven lions were reintroduced, for the first time in Rwanda after a 20-year absence, and seven cubs were born in 2016, doubling the population;
• A 120 km-long electrified predator-proof perimeter fence has been constructed and is reducing human-wildlife conflict;
• Over 1,000 students and educators annually visit Akagera;
• The parks upgraded facilities, including a visitor complex, Ruzizi Tented Lodge and Karenga Bush Camp, generate funds for community projects.

What next for Akagera?

• Continue to reduce poaching through rigorous law enforcement including patrols and removal of snares;
• Utilise and enhance park infrastructure to continue to grow the park's tourism offering;
• Develop a seasonal tented bush camp and luxury lodge in the north of the park;
• Continue to increase revenue from tourism productivity and channel towards community development.

All of this information has been taken from the African Parks website.  If you want to find out even more about Akagera National Park then why not grab a cuppa and click on the link below - happy browsing!

Akagera National Park 

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