Akagera National Park's Rehabilitation Post-Genocide

SOURCE npr.org
Akagera National Park in Rwanda, devastated by the country's genocide, has made a remarkable recovery and is now flourishing with diverse wildlife and growing tourism, contributing significantly to the country's GDP.

Key Points

  • Park faced challenges post-genocide due to encroachment by people and cattle
  • Rehabilitation efforts included giving park land to Rwandan refugees and promoting international tourism
  • Park now monitored 24/7 with advanced technology to track animals and tourists
  • Impressive biodiversity with close encounters with wildlife

Pros

  • Remarkable recovery of the park after being devastated by the Rwandan genocide
  • Diverse wildlife including leopards, impalas, and over 500 bird species
  • Growing international tourism that contributes 11% to Rwanda's GDP

Cons

  • Challenge of balancing tourism growth with conservation efforts to maintain the park's integrity