The Rushegura gorilla group lives in the Buhoma sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and is one of the oldest and largest families in the sector. Formed in 2002, it was the third gorilla family established in Buhoma, following Mubare in 1993 and Habinyanja in 1997.
A Nomadic History
Rushegura was known in its early years for a nomadic lifestyle, moving freely between Uganda and DR Congo and frequently visiting nearby lodges. The family has since settled permanently within Bwindi.
How Rushegura Was Formed
The family was founded by silverback Mwirima, who split from the Habinyanja family in February 2002 at age 25. Mwirima was the son of Mugurusi, Habinyanja’s original silverback, and brother to Rwansigazi. After Mugurusi’s death in 2000, Rwansigazi took over as Habinyanja’s leader, but internal disagreements led Mwirima to break away with the support of several family members, forming Rushegura once reconciliation efforts failed. The name Rushegura refers to the specific location where the split took place.
Mwirima left with just over 5 members initially, and the group grew steadily to 19 by the time of his death in March 2014, from natural causes. Leadership then passed to dominant blackback Kabukojo, supported by fellow blackback Kalembezi, who continue to lead the family today.
Family Structure Today
Current members include Kabukojo and Kalembezi (blackbacks), along with Kyirinvi, Kibande, Nyamunwa, Buzinza, Karungi, Ruterana, Kafuruka, Kanywani, Nyampazi, and Katazi, among others.
Trekking the Rushegura Family
Rushegura is known as one of Bwindi’s calmest and most peaceful families. It often stays close to Buhoma village and is sometimes spotted near Gorilla Forest Camp or in nearby gardens, making it one of the more predictable families to track. Treks usually begin at Buhoma park headquarters, though visitors sometimes need to drive about 15 minutes to the trailhead at Mukono before setting out.
With a calm temperament and a location close to Buhoma’s amenities, Rushegura offers one of the more relaxed gorilla trekking experiences in Bwindi. Book your gorilla trekking permit with our team today, and we’ll help you plan the trek alongside the rest of your Bwindi itinerary.
