Rwanda Advances Toward Establishing Its First UNESCO Global Geopark
Rwanda has taken an important step toward joining the Global Geoparks Network following a national consultation workshop held in Musanze in September 2025. Organized by the Rwanda National Commission for UNESCO in collaboration with the UNESCO International Geoscience and Geoparks Programme and the Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board, the workshop brought together scientists, policymakers, conservation experts, and community representatives to explore pathways for developing the country’s first UNESCO Global Geopark.
Geological heritage refers to natural landforms and Earth processes with scientific, educational, cultural, aesthetic, or economic value — including rock formations, fossils, volcanoes, caves, and tectonic structures that tell the story of the planet’s evolution.
Rwanda’s list of candidate geopark sites is expected to be submitted to UNESCO by November 2025.
UNESCO Global Geoparks are single, unified geographical areas where sites and landscapes of international geological significance are managed with a holistic concept of protection, education, and sustainable development. There are currently 229 UNESCO Global Geoparks in 50 countries — but only two in Africa. For Rwanda, joining this network would represent a significant milestone in linking science, education, and community-based conservation to national development goals.
Ir. Dominique Mvunabandi, Director of the Science, Technology, and Innovation Unit at the Rwanda National Commission for UNESCO and the National Focal Person for the Geopark National Committee, underlined the broader benefits of the initiative:
“Geoparks bring benefits to local communities and to tourism in general, based on their land, settlement history, and culture.”
Dr. Özlem Adiyaman López and other Rwandan Geologists during field study
UNESCO expert Dr. Özlem Adiyaman López emphasized that aspiring sites must meet rigorous standards:
“Not all natural sites automatically qualify as UNESCO Global Geoparks. Sites must demonstrate outstanding geological significance, effective management, and strong community involvement. For transboundary sites, cooperation between countries is also essential.”
The Musanze and Burera districts in northern Rwanda are being considered for potential inclusion due to their exceptional geological and ecological features. The region is home to the Musanze Caves, the twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, and the rehabilitated Rugezi wetland — landscapes that reflect both Rwanda’s volcanic heritage and its ongoing environmental recovery efforts.
Dr. Cedrick Nsengiyumva, lecturer at the Kigali Institute of Science and Technology, highlighted the scientific and educational potential of the area:
“From ancient metamorphic rocks to the volcanic peaks of the Virunga chain, Rwanda’s geological formations provide opportunities for education, culture, science, and geotourism.”
Professor Asfawossen Asrat, geologist and expert from Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia, stressed the importance of local participation in the process:
“Geoparks are about people. If local communities are not involved, there will be no Geopark. They generate social, economic, and educational benefits while protecting the environment.”
From the community perspective, Grégoire Bakunzi, Founder and CEO of Red Rocks Initiative for Sustainable Development, emphasized that the Geopark model goes beyond conservation:
“A Geopark is not just about stones and landscapes — it’s about people. Its real value lies in how it creates socio-economic opportunities at the grassroots level. It can revive traditional knowledge, promote job creation, and encourage community ownership of conservation.”
At the policy level, Joseph Mugabo from the Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board noted that the initiative aligns with national priorities:
“The Geopark concept aligns strongly with Rwanda’s vision for sustainable natural resource management and green growth. It can help Rwanda move from resource extraction to resource appreciation — diversifying rural economies through geotourism while protecting our geological heritage.”
Governor of Northern Province with Dr. Özlem Adiyaman López and other Rwandan Geologists
The Governor of the Northern Province expressed confidence that the initiative will enhance both conservation and tourism: “Rwanda’s northern landscapes are exceptional. Recognizing them as a Geopark will benefit communities, promote research, and ensure our natural heritage is protected for future generations.”
At the district level, Mayor Mukamana Soline of Burera highlighted the potential for education, tourism, and local pride:
“In Burera, we have sites like the Rugezi wetland and the twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo. If these places become recognized as a Geopark, it would bring knowledge, visitors, income, and jobs — and it would encourage our people to protect them.”
Local residents also voiced their support. Uwase Saraphine, a resident of Burera, shared how understanding the Geopark concept has inspired stewardship in her community:
“When people understand that a Geopark can create jobs, improve livelihoods, and help educate children, they become its protectors.”
The workshop concluded with a shared commitment to continue field assessments and data collection to prepare for the possible nomination process. If successful, Rwanda’s first UNESCO Global Geopark would not only enhance scientific research and heritage preservation but also strengthen community resilience, environmental education, and sustainable development.
As Rwanda continues to invest in science, innovation, and green growth, the Geopark initiative reflects the country’s ambition to connect global recognition with local empowerment — ensuring that geological heritage becomes a living resource for learning, tourism, and inclusive development.
Uwimanimpaye Cyiza Marie Clemence (Earth Rwanda)