Authorities in Nyaruguru District have revealed that preliminary investigations indicate that a beekeeper who was illegally harvesting honey inside Nyungwe National Park was responsible for a wildfire that burned 29 hectares of forest.
The fire broke out in the section of Nyungwe National Park located in Muganza Sector, Nyaruguru District, and continued burning for more than a week before it was eventually extinguished.
ALSO READ: https://agaciropress.com/president-kagame-holds-discussions-with-rdb-board-of-directors/
Local Authorities Reveal Suspected Cause
The revelation was made by Nyaruguru District Mayor Dr. Emmanuel Murwanashyaka on the evening of September 4, 2026, after the fire had been brought under control.
Speaking to IGIHE, Mayor Murwanashyaka said preliminary investigations had established that the fire was caused by a resident who was engaged in beekeeping and had illegally entered the national park to harvest honey. The suspect is currently being investigated.
ALSO READ: https://agaciropress.com/rwanda-army-provides-free-medical-services-to-2874-tanzanian-residents/
Suspect’s Identity Not Disclosed
Mayor Murwanashyaka declined to reveal the identity of the resident, explaining that investigations are still ongoing.
he said: “The matter is still under investigation.” Authorities are expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine the appropriate action based on the findings of the investigation.
ALSO READ: https://agaciropress.com/rwanda-and-botswana-strengthen-military-cooperation/
Security Organs and Residents Extinguish Fire
The fire was eventually extinguished through joint efforts involving local residents and security organs.
Those involved included the Rwanda National Police, the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and staff from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).
Their combined efforts helped prevent the fire from spreading further through the protected forest.
Mayor Warns Residents Against Illegal Activities
Mayor Murwanashyaka urged residents to avoid activities that violate the law, particularly those that could endanger protected areas and the environment.
He also called on residents to take precautions against fires in general, warning that uncontrolled fires can cause significant damage to forests, wildlife and other natural resources.
ALSO RAED: https://agaciropress.com/nyaruguru-youth-urged-to-choose-productive-lives-over-drugs/
Protecting Nyungwe National Park
The incident has once again highlighted the importance of protecting Nyungwe National Park from illegal activities and human actions that could threaten its ecosystem.
Authorities continue to encourage communities living near the park to respect environmental protection regulations and report activities that could put the forest at risk.
