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By Christophe Uwizeyimana
NYAMAGABE, Rwanda—In a vibrant celebration of talent and commitment, the Biodiversity Conservation Organization (BIOCOOR) and its partners honored community conservation champions from Kitabi, Uwinkingi, and Buruhukiro Sectors of Nyamagabe District. Through a blend of sports and artistic expression, the initiative aimed to inspire sustainable biodiversity conservation in and around the iconic Nyungwe National Park.
On January 11, 2025, BIOCOOR, in collaboration with NYUCO and other conservation partners, hosted competitions in cycling and the arts. This innovative approach sought to engage communities surrounding Nyungwe National Park, emphasizing the vital link between environmental stewardship and community development. Young participants from Kitabi, Buruhukiro, and Uwinkingi showcased their talents while demonstrating their commitment to conservation.
Winners’ Reflections
Winners of the competitions received cash prizes, which they described as a powerful motivation to intensify their conservation efforts.
- Cycling Champion: Iradukunda Fidele of Kitabi Sector expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, “This award motivates me to excel not only in cycling but also in protecting Nyungwe National Park. I will actively combat poaching and other illegal activities that harm the environment.”
- Poetry Winner: Tuganumwiza Claudine, whose heartfelt poem earned her first place, shared her excitement: “Look into my eyes; they reflect happiness. This recognition inspires me to redouble my efforts to protect Nyungwe National Park and encourage others to join this mission.”
- Music Artist: Nizeyimana Jean Bosco won acclaim for his song “Nyungwe Nziza,” which highlighted the park’s beauty and importance. In an emotional speech, he said, “This song brought me this honor, and it will continue to be a tool for raising awareness about conservation. This award strengthens my resolve to promote biodiversity protection.”
Leaders Encourage Conservation Efforts
Dr. Ange Imanishimwe, BIOCOOR’s Country Director, commended the winners and urged them to pursue greater success. “Protecting Nyungwe National Park and its biodiversity is a shared responsibility,” he said. “Take care of the environment and your communities through hygiene and sanitation, ensuring a better quality of life.” Link:https://youtu.be/lk6qUgG73NM?si=HoKkgcWT3DvtC-kY
Jean Claude Gasore, the Executive Secretary of Kitabi Sector, underscored the park’s significance to both the environment and the economy. “Nyungwe Forest is a national treasure. It not only generates rainfall but also contributes to economic growth through tourism. Revenue from the park helps fund community projects. Now were going to build new classrooms,” he noted. “We must protect this resource because its benefits directly impact our lives. BIOCOOR can count on our unwavering support.” Link:https://youtu.be/RhtY_fE7ijs
About BIOCOOR
BIOCOOR, founded by a group of passionate young conservationists, is dedicated to biodiversity conservation, ecotourism promotion, community health, environmental management, and climate change mitigation and adaptation. Headquartered in Nyamagabe District, Southern Province, Rwanda, BIOCOOR focuses its efforts on the five districts surrounding Nyungwe National Park.
Initially established in 2012 as a social enterprise under the name BIOCOOP, the organization transitioned to a local NGO in June 2020, adopting the name BIOCOOR while maintaining its core mission. Today, BIOCOOR integrates conservation initiatives with sustainable economic development, striving to build an environmentally and socio-economically stable nation.
Photos:
Photo: Dr. Ange Imanishimwe, the country Director of BIOCOOR is awrding Iradukunda Fidele of Kitabi Cycling Champion of the competition
Photo:Music Artist: Nizeyimana Jean Bosco won acclaim for his song “Nyungwe Nziza,” which highlighted the park’s beauty and importance.
Photo: Cyclists were awarded for their outstanding competition
Photo: Jean De La Paix Muragijimana from RP-Kitabi College awarding the Runner up in cyclist competition
Photo:Youth from communities around Nyungwe National Park attended competition
Photo: People from Kitabi, Uwinkingi and Buruhukiro sector attended this competition
Photo: Different partners of BIOCOOR were present
Photo:Jean Claude Gasore, the Executive Secretary of Kitabi Sector, underscored the park’s significance to both the environment and the economy
Photo: BIOCOOR staff tried their best to accomplish this initiative
Photo: Recognizing and awarding community conservation achievers from through sports and talent detection for sustainable biodiversity conservation in and around Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda
Photo: Cycling race is popular at Kitabi sector
Photo: This race was organized not only for conservation but also for talent detection
Photo: Farmers from Kitabi sector were happy to see the local competition of cycling
Photo: two fans waiting cyclists on the road
Photo: Good View of Kitabi Sector
Photo: Local competition warms up people
Photo: National Police was present to secure the safety
Other Photos:
Photo:DASSO was present to secure safety
Photo: Different artists attended the competition
Photo: Judges evaluated and selected winners
Photo: Everyone was proud to win
Photo: Mr.Irénée on of organizers is offering guidelines of competition
Photo:The Beauty of Nyungwe buffer zone
Photo: Local artists got time to offer their message
Photo: Winners have got their recognition
Photo: Kitabi Tea Plantation
