Kwita Izina: The Gorilla Naming Ceremony in Rwanda

Learn all the facts you need to know about this Rwandan naming event.

Celebrities in naming baby Gorillas by Kwita izinaRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy

The historical background of Kwita Izina (child naming)

Though an evolved part of Rwandan culture, 
newborns were welcomed after 8 days with the "Kwita Izina" ceremony. Family and friends gathered to bestow a name, officially introducing the child to the community.

Giving milk to kidsRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy

Children's involvement

In Rwanda's child naming ceremony, children received "Amasuka y'abana" hoes and seeds, symbolizing their future role as cultivators. They tilled the soil, then received food and milk, earning the right to suggest names, some sticking with the child forever.

Kwita izina - Gorilla Naming ceremonyRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy

Fathers in Rwandan naming ceremonies honor lineage by choosing names for sons, often reflecting family history, heroes, or birth events. Cheers erupt as the chosen name echoes through the community.

Baby GorillaRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy

Naming Baby Gorillas

In Rwanda, naming newborns is a cherished tradition, uniting family and friends. Inspired by this, Kwita Izina - "Naming the Baby Gorilla" - celebrates new gorilla arrivals since 2005, connecting communities with nature through meaningful naming ceremonies.

Silver backRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy

Gorillas naming ceremony and Conservation of nature

Aside from naming children, the Kwita Izina celebration is a way of raising funds and creating awareness for Gorilla conservation. It is also an event whereby whoever is involved in Gorillas conservation is appreciated for their conservation efforts and encouraged to continue.

Celebrities in naming baby Gorillas by Kwita izinaRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy

Participating in the gorilla naming ceremony

Kwita Izina festivities which include traditional music, dance and performances from local students and artists, attract thousands of people such as  conservationists, rangers, local communities, celebrities, dignitaries from across the world, and the President of Rwanda.

Credits: Story

Content development & Curatorial layout: Chantal Umuhoza

Photography: OGS & RDB

Credits: All media
The story featured may in some cases have been created by an independent third party and may not always represent the views of the institutions, listed below, who have supplied the content.
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