Biodiversity in Nyandungu Eco-Park in Kigali has nearly doubled, according to new findings from a 2025 survey.

The findings validated by park management on Wednesday, April 8, point to steady ecological recovery since the 2023 baseline study, with bird species rising from 83 to 158.

Among them is continued presence of Grey Crowned Crane in the park, a sign of improving habitat conditions.

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Plant diversity has also expanded, increasing from 260 to 523 species. Among them are plants of high conservation concern, including the critically endangered Vernonia djalonensis.

The survey further recorded growth in aquatic macroinvertebrates, from 29 to 41 families, alongside increases in mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and fish species.

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Researchers also confirmed the presence of the Spotted-necked Otter, a near-threatened species often regarded as an indicator of a healthy wetland ecosystem.

"This progress underscores the impact of science-based conservation,” said Ildephonse Kambogo, the Manager of Nyandungu Eco-Park.

"Every species recorded reflects the effectiveness of structured conservation practices, and we remain committed to building on this foundation.”

The survey was commissioned by QA Venue Solutions Rwanda, which manages the park, and carried out by the Regional Research Centre for Integrated Development (RCID), a Rwandan research and consultancy firm.

Jules Kazungu, Managing Director of RCID, said such assessments are essential for effective conservation planning.

"If you don’t know how many species and types are in the park, you wouldn’t know where to start in order to protect and conserve them,” he said.

Nyandungu Eco-Park, which covers 219 hectares, was restored through an investment of more than $5 million and has become one of Rwanda’s leading examples of urban ecological restoration.

Beyond conservation, the park continues to benefit residents by improving air quality, supporting natural flood control, and providing accessible green space. More than 110,000 people visited the park in 2025.

Nyandungu has also gained international recognition, receiving global awards in 2025, including the Star Wetland Centre Award and honours at the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands COP14.