We are thrilled to share some exciting updates about our ongoing project in Rwanda. This initiative, now generously supported by Piper & Heath Travel, is making a profound impact on the well-being of communities living near mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. Since our last update, we’ve made significant progress and are eager to share the latest developments with you.
Project Overview
The Red Rocks Initiative for Sustainable Development, based in Rwanda, has been a trailblazer in integrating local communities into conservation efforts. Their approach combines ecotourism, arts, culture, and direct conservation projects, supporting biodiversity while enhancing local economies and cultural heritage. Recognized as one of the ‘Best Tourism Villages’ by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Red Rocks sets a high standard for community-based conservation.
Building on Red Rocks’ impressive foundation, OneNature is introducing a participatory community methodology and a data-driven framework to these ongoing efforts. With the expansion of the Volcanoes National Park boundary, some communities are facing relocation. Our goal is to mitigate potential negative impacts and ensure that conservation efforts are both practical and truly beneficial to these communities. This October, OneNature will join Red Rocks on the ground in Rwanda to kickstart this crucial work.
Project Activities
Our team will spend two weeks in Rwanda, with the first week dedicated to working with the community near Nkotsi Village. During this time, we will conduct focus group discussions, meet with community leaders, and train local data collectors on well-being data collection. The second week will be spent in Kigali attending the Business of Conservation Conference, where we will connect with other conservation leaders and share our insights and progress. Red Rocks will oversee the data collection, while OneNature will analyze and share the report with Red Rocks and the community for planning the next steps.
Why This Matters
Conservation and ecotourism are vital for supporting community well-being. These initiatives provide economic opportunities, preserve cultural heritage, and promote the sustainable use of natural resources. By tracking and enhancing well-being in these communities, we aim to create a model where conservation efforts are not only environmentally sound but also socially equitable. This work aligns perfectly with the ethos of Piper & Heath and its clients, who value responsible and sustainable travel.
Our partnership with the Red Rocks Initiative is just the beginning. After our initial pilot phase, we envision expanding our efforts across the broader Volcanoes National Park region. Our shared vision is to set a new standard for conservation efforts that protect biodiversity and enhance the well-being of local communities. We believe that community-led conservation can become a global model, integrating local knowledge and cultural values into sustainable strategies.
Join Us on This Journey
We are grateful for Piper & Heath’s support, which has been instrumental in launching this initiative. Their passion for eco-friendly travel and conservation is making a tangible difference. As we embark on this journey, we invite you to follow our progress and continue supporting these vital efforts. Together, we can build a sustainable future where conservation and community development go hand in hand.
If you will be attending the Business of Conservation Conference in Kigali from October 14-16, we would love to connect with you. Please reach out to us to arrange a meeting. For more information about our project and ways to get involved, please visit OneNatureInstitute.org or contact us directly.
Thank you for being part of this transformative journey. Let’s continue to pave the way for a future where communities are at the heart of conservation efforts, crafting resilient solutions that stand the test of time.
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