The idea for the creation of a Center of Excellence in Biodiversity originated from the first International Research Conference on Biodiversity, which took place in Kigali in July 2007. During his speech at this conference, H.E. the President of the Republic of Rwanda introduced the idea of the Center of Excellence in Biodiversity and Natural Resource Management. As quoted in his original message; “We also require effective and efficient institutions, with the appropriate human and physical infrastructure…Another key imperative is the scientific and research capacities to continuously monitor, create new knowledge, as well as generate innovative solutions. He also specifically mentioned the concept of a CoE creation when he stated “explore the possibility of establishing a centre of excellence in biodiversity and natural resources management for this region”
