From Poaching to Partners in Conservation
One&Only Nyungwe House has partnered with the Kora Tubungabunga Ibidukikije cooperative since 2017, and we are proud of our deep connection with the community. Today, the resort works with the cooperative, employing members for a range of activities including maintenance of nearby hiking trails and other facilities. The income from this work and donations from the resort has enabled the cooperative to establish a range of farming projects to generate additional income.
Before the forest was designated as a National Park, however, poaching and other deforestation activities were common. Typically, men would go into the forest to hunt animals such as elephants and buffalos - species sadly no longer present in the park. Trees would be cut down for use as timber or firewood, minerals would be extracted, and the forest would be used for grazing.
Today, however, former poachers have become conservation champions and play an active role in protecting Nyungwe National Park and the unique flora and fauna that call the forest home.
Grace Uwingeneye, Guest Experience Expert at One&Only Nyungwe House, is passionate about community development and works with the cooperative on a day-to-day basis. “Working with the cooperative ensures the experience at the resort is a memorable one. Guests enjoy the pristine environment of the property and can also plant trees to leave a lasting legacy at the resort. The cooperative prepares these seedlings for guests to plant during their time at here.”
Cooperative leader, Thomas Ntawurushimana, invites others to join them on the journey of conservation.
“Nyungwe National Park is known as the lungs of Rwanda - this park is a source of life and the country’s development. I encourage the entire community to conserve the forest, and to our beloved visitors, I invite you to come and witness our journey of wildlife and nature conservation. There is safety here, love, great hospitality and a unique culture for you to experience.”
We hope to inspire our guests to become champions of conservation, just like the members of the Kora Tubungabugana Ibidukikije cooperative.
One&Only Nyungwe House will continue supporting the Kora Tubungabugana Ibidukikije cooperative and plans to expand the partnership.