The One Health Approach for Conservation (OHAC) – Gorilla Health, together with others partners, proudly joins in celebrating the collective efforts behind the sustainable conservation of mountain gorillas and wildlife, both regionally and nationally. This celebration is a powerful reminder of what collaboration and long-term commitment to conservation can achieve.
On September 5, 2025, we take a moment to honor the incredible growth of the Virunga mountain gorilla population and recognize the vital efforts of the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), the staff of Volcanoes National Park, and all conservation partners. This occasion serves to reflect on decades of dedicated work, during which the mountain gorilla population steadily rose from critically endangered status to endangered population of 604 mountain gorillas across 41 social groups (according to the 2016 census – gorillahealth.org).
From Extinction Threat to Conservation Success
At the start of the 21st century, many scientists predicted the extinction of mountain gorillas due to rampant poaching and habitat loss. However, with the emergence of gorilla tourism in the 1970s, a new path was forged — one that linked conservation with economic opportunity. Protecting these majestic creatures became a national priority, strengthened by increased public awareness and international support.
The Kwita Izina gorilla naming ceremony, officially launched by the Rwandan government i 2005, became a landmark in conservation history. Inspired by Rwanda’s tradition of naming newborns within families and communities, the ceremony became a global platform to celebrate conservation achievements.
As Dr. Jean Felix Kinani Sangwa, Founder and CEO of OHAC – Gorilla Health, explains:
“Before 2005, it was the park trackers who named the baby gorillas. But after extensive consultations with RDB leadership, especially under Rosette Rugamba, the idea was formalized and elevated to an international event.”
Since 2004, Dr. Jean Felix has worked tirelessly to protect mountain gorillas by providing daily care and train wildlife veterinarians, and mentor park trackers, caregivers, and young conservationists in Volcanoes, Akagera, and Nyungwe National Parks in Rwanda, as well as across DR Congo and Uganda.
Thanks to the critical work of our gorilla veterinarians—who provide life-saving medical care and implement a One Health approach—the mountain gorilla population in the Virunga Massif has increased by more than 60% for the past 4 decades. This remarkable recovery highlights the power of science and conservation in action, driven by the One Health model championed by our organization ‘’www.gorillahealth.org’’
Dr. Kinani regularly monitors gorilla health, provides advice of medical interventions (such as treating respiratory outbreaks and injuries), leads field responses and contribute to research publications—activities deeply rooted in primatological practice.
Mountain gorilla doctor monitoring a gorilla patient in Volcanoes National Park during a respiratory infection
Putting community in the central of conservation effort, the OHAC – Gorilla health initiated joint surveillance and control of diseases affecting both gorillas and humans. It plays a vital role in reducing the risk of zoonotic transmission between park personnel and mountain gorillas. This collaborative approach not only helps health professionals monitor and understand the incidence of potentially transmissible diseases but also strengthens conservation efforts by protecting both human and gorilla health under the One Health framework.
One Health Approach for Conservation (OHAC) – Gorilla Health
For more information or if you would like to make a donation, we greatly appreciate it.
By Dr Jean Felix Kinani Sangwa
One Health Approach for Conservation (OHAC) – Gorilla Health
For more information or if you would like to make a donation, we greatly appreciate it.
You can contact our organization via by email: info@gorillahealth.org/ ohac2004@gmail.com
www.gorillahealth.org – Tel: 0788640986
