Rwanda reopens meetings & conferences to revive COVID-19 hit hospitality sector

In the wake of months of lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Rwanda Convention Bureau has made a bold move to reopen meetings and conferences in an effort to rejuvenate the country's tourism and hospitality sector. Janet Karemera, the Deputy CEO of the Rwanda Convention Bureau, shed light on the challenges faced by the industry during the pandemic and the strategies being employed to bounce back. With a significant number of events canceled and millions of dollars lost, the road to recovery for Rwanda's hospitality sector seems steep but not insurmountable. As the government of Rwanda prepares to lift travel restrictions and allow the resumption of events from August onwards, the country is poised to gain a competitive edge in attracting conferences. Rwanda's swift and effective response to the pandemic has instilled confidence in stakeholders and event planners across the continent. The readiness to reopen for business signals a welcoming environment for hosting events and conferences in the near future. The timeline for the sector's recovery remains uncertain, given the unpredictable nature of the COVID-19 situation. However, with events scheduled from September to December and into the next year, there is optimism for a gradual resurgence. Private players, particularly event companies, have borne the brunt of the crisis, facing financial hardships and uncertain prospects. The government has been actively engaging with stakeholders, providing guidelines and economic relief funds to support small businesses and local players in the industry. The Economic Recovery Fund for Businesses in Rwanda has set criteria for companies eligible to apply, including those that have suffered more than a 50% revenue loss. The Rwanda Convention Bureau is working to ensure accountability and proper utilization of the funds, encouraging companies to retain staff and explore alternative revenue streams. Amid the challenges, the crisis has also presented opportunities for innovation and adaptation within the hospitality sector. Embracing virtual and hybrid events has emerged as a promising avenue for industry players to diversify and expand their offerings. The shift towards online platforms for conferences and training sessions has paved the way for increased engagement and new business opportunities. The resilience and adaptability of local professionals in the sector have been evident, as they embrace new technologies and strategies to navigate the changing landscape of the events industry. Looking ahead, the focus on hybrid events, virtual platforms, and enhanced training and capacity building initiatives will be key for Rwanda's hospitality sector to thrive in the post-pandemic era. By leveraging digital tools and exploring innovative ways of conducting business, the industry is poised to not only recover from the setbacks but also emerge stronger and more resilient in the face of future challenges.