Rwanda hosts gala to celebrate achievements in the tourism sector

Rwanda's tourism sector is set to shine at the annual Rwanda Tourism Gala dinner and award ceremony, scheduled to take place on the 14th of December. The event promises to recognize and honor various industry players who have made significant contributions to the sector throughout the year. Sifa Uwera, Secretary General at Rwanda Tours and Travel Association, recently shared insights about the event with CNBC Africa, shedding light on the excitement and anticipation surrounding the prestigious awards ceremony. With expectations of about 300 participants from both the private and public sectors, the gala is poised to be a grand celebration of Rwanda's booming tourism industry. Uwera highlighted that the awards ceremony would honor individuals and organizations that have demonstrated outstanding work and excellence in the tourism sector. The selection process involved meticulous preparations, including online voting and mystery shopping conducted by a panel of judges. The event will not only be a platform for awarding top performers but also a networking opportunity for industry practitioners to discuss key issues, share insights, and strategize on the way forward. Reflecting on the growth of the sector over the years, Uwera emphasized the significant contributions of industry players to Rwanda's economy. With tourism contributing nearly $400 million to the country's GDP and providing jobs for approximately 181,000 people, the sector has become a vital pillar of Rwanda's economic landscape. The projection of a rise to $800 million underscores the remarkable potential and growth prospects within the tourism industry. When delving into the numbers within the sector, Uwera revealed that the Rwanda Hospitality Association boasts about 4,000 members, showcasing the sector's vibrancy and appeal. However, she noted that the actual number of licensed members under the Chamber of Tourism stands at a quarter of this figure, with 132 licensed operators. Despite the impressive numbers, Uwera acknowledged the presence of numerous unregistered players in the industry, hinting at the continued growth and expansion of Rwanda's tourism landscape. Discussing the chamber's efforts to maintain credibility in the face of evolving trends such as digitalization and the rise of online experiences, Uwera stressed the importance of continuous training and collaboration with other industry bodies. By organizing training sessions and seminars in conjunction with the Chamber of ICT, the chamber aims to enhance the skills and marketing strategies of its members, ensuring that Rwanda's tourism offerings maintain high standards and appeal. Uwera acknowledged the progress made since the chamber's inception in 2006, noting the enthusiasm of new entrants to the market who strive to meet stringent licensing requirements and uphold quality standards. With a relentless commitment to excellence and a focus on continuous improvement, Rwanda's tourism sector is poised for further growth and success. The Rwanda Tourism Gala stands as a testament to the industry's achievements and the dedication of its stakeholders to promote Rwanda as a premier tourist destination.