Following His Great Job in Naming Baby Gorilla, GGGI Director-General Pays Tribute to Victims of 1994 Genocide

This week, Sang-Hyup Kim, the Director-General of the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), visited Rwanda to participate in the highly anticipated Kwita Izina gorilla naming ceremony and to hold meetings with various government officials. His visit underscored Rwanda’s steadfast commitment to conservation, reconciliation, and sustainable development.

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During the ceremony, Mr. Kim played a key role in naming a newborn gorilla “IMPUGUKE,” which means “Experts.” The baby was born last year on July 21 to mother Ahazaza—meaning “the future”—symbolizing the importance of skilled conservationists and community effort in protecting Rwanda’s endangered mountain gorillas.

In a heartfelt address, Mr. Kim expressed his joy, saying, “I am pleased to name my baby gorilla “IMPUGUKE”, meaning ‘expert.’ She was born on July 21 last year. Her mother, Ahazaza, means ‘the future.’ I believe the next generation of gorillas will also be very smart and represent our future.” He added, “This name emphasizes the vital role of experts and people in making community-based conservation successful for all of us.”

In addition to the celebratory moments, Mr. Kim paid tribute at Kigali Memorial, laying a wreath in remembrance of the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. “This memorial reminds me of the greatness of reconciliation. We must remember and honor those who suffered, and work together for peace and future progress,” he said.

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While in Rwanda, Mr. Kim is scheduled to meet with officials to discuss strategies for promoting green growth and regional collaboration on environmental issues. His visit reflects Rwanda’s leadership in biodiversity conservation and its unwavering dedication to fostering peace, resilience, and sustainable development for future generations.