Kwita Izina 2026: Patrice Evra names baby Gorilla ‘Muganura’ as Mamadou Sakho declares, “From Today, I Am Rwandan”
The world once again turned its attention to Kinigi in Musanze District, where the 21st edition of Kwita Izina, Rwanda’s annual gorilla naming ceremony, was held on Friday.
Among the high-profile figures who participated in the ceremony was former French international football star Patrice Evra, who named a baby mountain gorilla ‘Muganura.’
The ceremony took place in the scenic Kinigi area, on the edge of Volcanoes National Park, one of the last remaining habitats of the endangered mountain gorillas, which are found in only a few places in the world, including Rwanda.
The event brought together distinguished guests from different parts of the world, including internationally recognised personalities, conservation advocates and residents of Musanze District.
The ceremony was presided over by Prime Minister Dr Justin Nsengiyumva, who served as the Guest of Honour and represented President Paul Kagame at the 21st edition of Kwita Izina.
The celebrations also featured performances by some of Rwanda’s leading musicians, including The Ben, Riderman, Bushali and Kivumbi Kingi, who entertained guests attending the event.
Baby Gorilla Names and Their Namers
When Patrice Evra took to the stage to name his assigned baby gorilla, he expressed his happiness at being in Rwanda, saying, “I am happy to be here in Rwanda.” He added that he has always admired the country and its people.
Evra also spoke about his visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, saying he was deeply saddened by what he saw there. However, he said he was inspired by Rwanda’s remarkable recovery and transformation, describing it as a country that has become a model for others.
After naming the gorilla ‘Muganura,’ Evra revealed that he had originally planned to leave Rwanda on Saturday but had decided to extend his stay because of how much he had enjoyed his time in the country.
Kenza Johanna Ameloot, Miss Belgium 2024, who has Rwandan roots, also took part in the ceremony. She said, “Whenever I come to Rwanda, I feel like I am coming home.” She named her baby gorilla ‘Nkwakuzi.’
Former French international footballer Mamadou Sakho, who played for several prominent clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain in France, Liverpool and Crystal Palace in England, named his baby gorilla ‘Ntwarane.’ He concluded his remarks by declaring, “From today, I am Rwandan.”
Rwandan gospel singer Israel Mbonyi named his baby gorilla ‘Igihembo,’ a name symbolising a reward, remembrance and appreciation.
Full List of Baby Gorillas Named at Kwita Izina 2026
– Shaikha Al Nuwais: Ishakwe
– Dominic Barton: Umukondo
– Paul Danforth: Shikama
– Miguel Angel Gil Marin: Inkera
– Ahmed Sadek Elsewedy & Anita Dravec: Rugamba
– Olivier & Quitterie Granet: Umucyo
– Garreth & Nicola Wood: Ngabonzima
– James Chester: Ndongozi
– Jeannette Uwimbabazi: Ndahiro
– Francesco Calvo: Ngoga
– David Lappartient: Muhuza
– Dominique Laura Plewes: Komezutsinde
– Mamadou Sakho: Ntwarane
– Mutaz Barshim: Tarama
– Alastair Fothergill: Mpinga
– Neil & Susan McDougall: Ruhembe
– Patrice Evra: Muganura
– Israel Mbonyi: Igihembo
– Kenza Johanna Ameloot: Nkwakuzi
