Zipline, a drone delivery firm, has announced a partnership with Rwanda Development Board (RDB) to, among others, deliver "Made in Rwanda” products to "resorts and lodges” with proceeds going to the Volcanoes National Park Expansion Project.

Home to Rwanda’s mountain gorillas, the park which is located in Northern Province is set to be expanded by about 23 percent, increasing its size by 37.4 square kilometers (3,740 hectares).

The expansion is set to cater for growing animal population, but most especially safeguard communities around the park against stray animals from the park, which not only destroyed their crops but also harmed people.

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The development, announced on Monday, February 12, builds on Zipline’s "existing success” in delivering medical supplies, according to the agreement.

This, officials said, sets a precedent for the integration of drone technology into diverse sectors, fostering economic development and sustainability.

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The move would position Rwanda as a global leader in embracing innovative solutions for the betterment of people and natural wildlife.

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"This partnership underscores our dedication to collaborating closely with private sector entities, such as Zipline, to advance environmental conservation, stimulate economic development, and foster a culture of innovation,” said Francis Gatare, the Chief Executive at Rwanda Development Board (RDB).

Key highlights of the partnership include the promotion of Made in Rwanda products, where Zipline, in collaboration with RDB, will deliver high-quality Made in Rwanda fashion and souvenir items to lodges and hotels across the country.

The initiative also aims to boost local businesses, enhance the visibility of Rwandan products, and contribute to the growth of the nation’s creative economy.

Equally important, officials said, the deal will ensure the conservation of Rwanda’s mountain gorillas’ habitat, where a portion of the fee paid for every delivery completed by Zipline within Rwanda’s tourism sector will go towards the park Expansion project, which is a critical initiative to support the conservation of mountain gorilla populations and other endangered wildlife as well as promote tourism in Rwanda

The agreement is also set to ensure logistical efficiency and sustainability by utilizing Zipline’s autonomous drone technology, through streamlining the delivery process, reducing delivery times, and improving the overall efficiency of supply chain logistics.

"We are elated to join forces with the Rwanda Development Board, broadening the horizons of our drone delivery services far beyond the realm of medical supplies. This initiative allows Zipline, in collaboration with handpicked ‘Made in Rwanda’ brands, to enchant tourists by seamlessly delivering exquisite local gifts directly to their hotel doorsteps, even in the most remote corners of Rwanda,” said Pierre Kayitana, the General Manager of Zipline Rwanda.

He added; "We are incredibly proud to announce that Wilderness Destinations and Umva Muhazi Lodge are the pioneering subscribers to this innovative drone delivery service, aimed at enhancing the experience of their esteemed guests.”