The challenges facing Nyungwe are diverse. Illegal cross-border movements from Burundi are difficult to control, particularly given the terrain. Illegal extraction of minerals, fauna, and flora for commercial purposes are also prevalent. All of this is exacerbated by a national road transiting through the park which more easily allows illegal activities to take place.
There is also high density of people on the periphery of the park which increases incidents of human-wildlife conflict and agricultural encroachment into the park.
In just one year of management, with sound conservation, tourism, and other sustainable revenue-generating activities under way, Nyungwe is well-placed to support healthy terrestrial ecosystems to benefit wildlife and people long into the future. Today, due to our newly launched law enforcement strategy and community development, illegal activities are being curtailed and tourism is taking hold with visitor numbers on the rise, creating employment and local enterprise opportunities. In addition, a training facility was created for up to 40 rangers to be trained in refresher courses.