Rwandan hills turned into a global stage as Nigerian superstar Yemi Alade stepped into history at the Kwita Izina 2025 Gorilla Naming Ceremony in Kinigi.
Dressed regally in the traditional Rwandan attire, imushanana, a symbol of royalty, dignity, and cultural pride. Alade joined 40 distinguished figures, including royals, philanthropists, athletes, musicians, and global citizens, to give names to Rwanda’s newest mountain gorilla infants.
Yemi Alade
Yemi Alade
With emotion, Alade revealed the name of her baby gorilla: “Kundwa,” meaning to be loved. Her declaration drew cheers from the crowd, a moment she described as “life-changing.”
“Standing amongst the mountain giants of Rwanda, dressed as royalty, I realized how deeply connected humans are to gorillas,” she reflected. “With only a 4 percent genetic difference, they are our cousins. They share the same nine-month gestation, and so many similarities that remind us of our shared world. This is more than conservation—it’s kinship.”
Yemi Alade
Yemi Alade
The Johnny hitmaker, known for her bold cultural advocacy, urged fans worldwide to visit Rwanda and experience its unmatched natural treasures: “You should visit Rwanda,” and thank me later. Ask for Mr Emmanuel to be your guide. He is the best.”
For Alade, the day was about bridging humanity and nature, showcasing Africa’s heritage, and celebrating the profound balance between man and the wild.
