Kwita Izina- Gorilla Naming Ceremony (June 2011)

When a child is born in Rwanda there is a ceremony called Kwita Izina it is a naming ceremony. In June there is an annual Kwita Izina ceremony held in Northern Rwanda in Kinigi at Volcanos National Park it is a Gorilla naming ceremony. All the Gorillas that were born during the year are given names during the ceremony. There are guest speakers, traditional dancing, music food and drinks. An individual can choose to sponsor a Gorilla and then gets the honor of choosing the name of the Gorilla. During this years event many notable guest were seen and individuals from all over the world attended. It is an enjoyable celebration as well as an important event to raise money and awareness about the mountain gorillas.