The management of Volcanoes National Park has acquired modern equipment to enhance capacity in protection of wild animals in the park.

The equipment worth Rwf118m was provided by Congo Basin Ecosystems Conservation (PACEBCo), in partnership with Rwanda Natural Resources Authority. It includes 14 generators, 20 binoculars, 50 altimeters, 50 GPSs, 20 digital cameras, 50 compasses, 50 radio call sets, 20 tents, 145 sleeping bags, and 145 rain coats.

Dr Bihini Won wa Musiti, PACEBCo regional coordinator, said the support was in recognition of their good cooperation with the Rwanda Natural Resources Authority and the existing goodwill in conservation and management of biodiversity.

He said the modern equipment will be used to protect the national park by enabling those involved in conservation to effectively deal with some of the challenges they encounter.

"Through the partnership, we can achieve a lot…Capacity building which is ongoing is the key to effective management of our natural resources,” he said.

Emmanuel Nkurunziza, the Director General of Rwanda Natural Resources Authority hailed PACEBCo for the support, saying it will help park employees respond in an effective and timely manner.

He urged park wardens and truckers to take care of the equipment, adding that it was their responsibility to ensure safety of the materials.

Park wardens and truckers said the modern kits will help them work professionally and effectively.

"It has always been hard for us to identify the whereabouts of some animals in the park. Such modern materials will make our work easier,” said Daniel Nkundabera, one of the wardens.PACEBCo works to conserve the second largest tropical forest in the world and the second "green lung” of the planet, after the Amazon.