Rwanda and DRC Launch New Peace Deal to Unite Tourism and Conservation Efforts, Creating an Eco-tourism Hub for Mountain Gorilla Viewing in Virunga

Published on December 11, 2025

With a historic agreement signed on December 4, 2025, Rwanda and DRC integrated joint tourist and conservation initiatives as part of their peace agreement using the Regional Economic Integration Framework initiative that has been backed by the US. The agreement contains a plan of action for the management and conservation of two of Africa’s most renowned protected natural resources, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in DRC. This agreement also encompasses Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which now provides for a comprehensive tourist destination referred to as the Greater Virunga Landscape for those interested in watching mountain gorillas.

A Three-Phase Strategy for Transboundary Conservation and Tourism Development

The REIF outlines a detailed three-phase programme aimed at enhancing the long-term success of joint tourism and conservation efforts. The first phase focuses on strengthening transboundary conservation and security, alongside implementing a joint system for biodiversity monitoring across the three countries. This collaborative approach will ensure that conservation efforts are synchronized, providing a stable and sustainable environment for the mountain gorillas and other endangered species in the region.

The second phase introduces the establishment of a bilateral commission to align tourism standards, pricing, and revenue-sharing between the countries. This phase also includes the investment in infrastructure to improve accessibility and create a joint visa system for visitors to all three parks. This simplified visa process is expected to encourage more international tourists to visit the region, boosting both conservation funding and the local economy.

In the third phase, the focus shifts to collaboration with experienced tourism operators. The plan calls for a harmonized strategy for joint marketing of the parks, as well as participation in international trade shows to attract tourists. These efforts will be complemented by initiatives to ensure that local communities benefit from the growing tourism sector, through the creation of jobs and equitable revenue-sharing arrangements.

Benefits for Local Communities and Expanding Conservation Efforts

One of the key aspects of the peace deal is the focus on community engagement and ensuring that the benefits of the tourism and conservation efforts are shared equitably. Local communities living near the Greater Virunga Landscape are expected to directly benefit from the job creation associated with the tourism sector, including guides, park rangers, and other service industry positions. In addition, the deal provides for revenue-sharing models that ensure local communities have a stake in the success of ecotourism.

The cooperation also has the potential to extend to other protected areas in the region, such as Kahuzi-Biega National Park and Itombwe Forest in the DRC, as well as Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda. These additions would further expand the scope of conservation and tourism activities, offering even more opportunities for sustainable development and community involvement.

Positioning the Greater Virunga Landscape as a Premier Ecotourism Destination

By aligning the efforts of Rwanda, DRC, and Uganda, the Greater Virunga Landscape is set to become a world-class destination for ecotourism. The region is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, and the joint effort will increase the visibility of the region as a conservation success story and a must-visit destination for travelers interested in wildlife and sustainable tourism.

This agreement aligns with the global push toward eco-friendly travel and conservation-driven tourism, where visitors are increasingly seeking to contribute to local conservation efforts through their travels. As part of the joint marketing and promotional campaigns, the countries aim to raise awareness of the importance of protecting mountain gorillas and other wildlife, while also educating tourists about the cultural richness and biodiversity of the region.

The Long-Term Impact: A Model for Regional Cooperation and Sustainable Tourism

The Rwanda-DRC tourism and conservation agreement is not just a strategic move to boost the region’s tourism sector, but also an example of regional cooperation that can have a profound impact on the broader African continent. As the agreement unfolds, it will likely serve as a model for other countries with shared natural resources, showcasing how cross-border collaboration can lead to long-term environmental sustainability and economic growth.

Moreover, by enhancing conservation efforts and sustainable tourism in the region, the deal is expected to make significant contributions to preserving biodiversity and supporting local livelihoods. It positions the Greater Virunga Landscape as a leading destination for eco-conscious travelers, further elevating Rwanda, DRC, and Uganda as key players in the global ecotourism market.

A Bright Future for Ecotourism in the Greater Virunga Landscape

The signing of a peace agreement between the government of Rwanda and the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo marks a turning point in the establishment of the Greater Virunga Landscape as a comprehensive ecotourism destination. This new development brings hope as this area will now be a role model in sustainable tourism worldwide. The cooperation between the three countries will not only benefit their economies but also help in a significant way with protecting mountain gorillas and other animals that inhabit this incredible area. This development, when fully implemented, will encourage other countries to consider working together for a brighter sustainable tourism future.