Using Drones in Akagera – Guidelines for Filming & Conservation

Akagera National Park is a protected wildlife conservation area located in the East of Rwanda. The use of drones by regular visitors to the park is not permitted at any given time.

This restriction is in place to combat poaching and minimize disturbance to the natural behavior of the wildlife in their environment.

The Rwanda Development Board and African Parks have formed a partnership that led to the creation of the Akagera Management Company, which is responsible for managing the park’s operations.

They employ drones in Akagera National Park for various purposes such as filming wildlife, as outlined below:

1. Ecological research, where the collected data can inform conservation decisions.
2. Monitoring wildlife, especially endangered species like the Black rhinos.
3. Patrolling the park to combat poaching and prevent illegal encroachment on park land.
4. Conducting aerial surveys to assess the overall condition of the park and its wildlife.
5. General park management and maintenance, including checking on animals that may require medical attention or rescue from poacher’s traps and snares.

For anyone wishing to fly a drone in Akagera National Park, the following guidelines must be followed:

1. Seek permission from the relevant authorities and obtain permits to operate the drone in Rwanda and specifically in Akagera National Park.
2. Comply with the park’s rules and regulations to ensure your safety, as well as that of the wildlife and other park visitors.
3. Maintain a respectful and safe distance from the wildlife while operating the drone to minimize disturbance to the animals.
4. Respect the privacy of other visitors when capturing images or recording videos with the drone.
5. Use the collected data in accordance with the data protection laws of Rwanda and Akagera National Park.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can contribute to the conservation efforts of the Akagera Management Company, African Parks, and the Rwanda Development Board.

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