In early October, OneNature set off for Rwanda to launch our “Wild Happiness – Rwanda” project alongside the Red Rocks Initiative for Sustainable Development. This project aims to establish a well-being baseline for communities living near Volcanoes National Park, who are facing relocation due to the park’s expansion. With support from Piper & Heath Travel, this effort reflects our shared commitment to integrating conservation, cultural heritage, and well-being.
Launching Wild Happiness: The Journey Begins
On October 5th, I embarked on the journey to Rwanda via Ethiopian Airlines, arriving in Kigali the following morning. After months of planning, it was incredibly exciting to meet Karri from Earthsongs in person for the first time! We were welcomed by Peace from Red Rocks, who introduced us to Kigali with a thrilling moto taxi ride through the city, finishing with a delicious Indian meal that set a wonderful tone for our week of exploration and connection.
Meeting Red Rocks and Traveling to Musanze
On Monday, October 7th, Greg from Red Rocks met us at our hotel to start our journey to Musanze and the Red Rocks Cultural Center. After over a year of collaborating virtually through Zoom and WhatsApp, it was wonderful to finally meet in person. During the drive, Greg shared valuable insights about the region, the local community, and Red Rocks’ efforts to merge ecotourism, culture, and conservation.
Upon our arrival, we were greeted with our first of many delicious and healthy meals at the Red Rocks Cultural Center and settled in, excited for the work ahead.
Community Engagement and Conservation
Our first full day at the cultural center was eye-opening. We visited the communities near Volcanoes National Park, meeting local families who will be affected by the park’s expansion. Listening to their stories and insights was crucial in shaping the Wild Happiness Survey, ensuring it accurately reflects their needs and experiences.
Later, we visited the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, where Rwanda’s dedication to conservation and protecting natural heritage is on full display. We also joined the local community in drumming and dancing—a joyful reminder of the cultural richness and spirit of togetherness that underpins this work.
Ecosystem Restoration and Local Innovation
Wednesday brought us to the riverbanks, where the Wildlife Conservation Initiative (WCI) is spearheading ecosystem restoration efforts by reintroducing indigenous trees. These efforts are vital for boosting biodiversity, stabilizing soil, and creating local employment, particularly for youth and women.
In the afternoon, we visited the Virunga Mountain Spirits distillery—a craft distillery that celebrates Rwanda’s volcanic soil and highlights the traditional role of women in spirits production. The distillery not only supports local craftsmanship but also empowers women, linking tradition with economic opportunity.
Training Data Collectors and Gorilla Trekking
On Thursday, we held a training workshop for our local data collectors. Together, we reviewed survey questions, discussed best practices for gathering well-being data, and shared a few laughs along the way. This enthusiastic team is now prepared to take on the crucial role of gathering community insights.
Friday was a personal highlight for me—a gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park. Witnessing a family of 35 gorillas in their natural habitat was awe-inspiring, and the experience left me even more committed to our conservation work. The joy of this experience was mirrored by artist and data collector Winnie, who surprised me by painting “my” baby gorilla for me!
Celebrations and Reflections
On Saturday, we attended a graduation ceremony for community guides trained by Red Rocks. It was an honor to present certificates to the young guides, who are eager to share their culture and community with visitors. On the way back, I was delighted to meet Valerie, the Program Director at Conservation Heritage – Turambe (CHT). We have many mutual friends and share involvement in the Emerging Wildlife Conservation Leaders (EWCL) organization. It was inspiring to learn how she and Red Rocks are collaborating to support the community as they prepare for relocation.
Back at the Red Rocks Cultural Center, we celebrated the spirit of community and conservation. I felt honored to join the local women in their drumming and dancing—truly a highlight of my journey.
Wrapping Up in Kigali
Our time in Kigali concluded with productive meetings with inspiring conservation and development leaders, including Dr. Andrew G. Seguya, Executive Secretary of Greater Virunga Transboundary Collaboration, and Eugene Mutangana, Head of Department Conservation at the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).
Although the Business of Conservation Conference and the gorilla naming ceremony were canceled, our last days in Kigali were filled with meaningful connections and new opportunities. As I departed for Italy and the International Wildlife Coexistence Network conference (stay tuned for my next blog!), I was filled with a renewed sense of purpose and gratitude for the relationships forged during this journey.
Looking Ahead: Wild Happiness in Action
The data collection for “Wild Happiness – Rwanda” is now underway, and we can’t wait to share new insights soon. Each story, each voice from the community, helps us support the well-being of both people and wildlife in this beautiful region. Thank you to all who made this journey possible—especially Piper & Heath Travel for their support in bringing this vision to life.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Wild Happiness project in Rwanda!
Support Our Mission: Join Our Year-End Fundraising Campaign
Imagine a world where the well-being of communities and wildlife is at the heart of conservation. At OneNature, we’re working towards this vision, and your support can help us achieve more. We’re currently raising $10,000 to expand our work in communities like those in Rwanda and beyond.
All donations up to $5,000 will be matched by our board, advisors, and senior leadership, doubling your impact!
With your support, we can:
- Expand the Wild Happiness work in Rwanda, supporting more communities impacted by park expansion.
- Launch new initiatives like our collaborative art project in Nepal to support snow leopard conservation.
- Develop and share our Wild Happiness framework globally through workshops, consulting, and partnerships.
Join our GoFundMe campaign and help us make a difference.
Together, we can create a world where well-being for all beings is central to conservation. Thank you for being a part of this journey.