Rwanda building sustainable economy through tourism

Rwanda's tourism sector has shown remarkable signs of recovery in the first half of this year, with the government collecting a substantial $168 million between January and June. This growth comes on the heels of a successful 2021, where total tourism revenues reached $164 million, marking a 25% increase from the previous year. The country welcomed over 512,000 international visitors in 2021, solidifying its position as a top tourist destination in Africa. To delve deeper into how Rwanda is leveraging its tourism industry to build a sustainable economy, Tek Kaberuka, a Partner at Centrix Group, shared insights in an exclusive interview on CNBC Africa. Kaberuka highlighted the pivotal role of events like the gorilla naming ceremony in boosting Rwanda's global visibility and attracting high-profile personalities and international media attention. These initiatives have placed Rwanda on the world map and contributed significantly to the country's strategic positioning in the tourism sector. One of the key strategies employed by Rwanda to enhance its tourism industry is branding itself as a luxury tourism destination. Investments in branding partnerships, such as the deal between RIDB and Arsenal in 2018 worth $41.4 million, have played a critical role in elevating Rwanda's status as a premier travel location. Kaberuka emphasized that these branding efforts have yielded tangible results, with a surge in tourist numbers, even amid the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. By fostering collaborations with renowned entities like PSG, Rwanda is not only attracting a diverse range of visitors but also driving economic growth by creating opportunities for local communities. Moreover, Rwanda's commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development has been pivotal in enhancing its tourism offerings. The country's investments in the Volcanoes National Park, a habitat for mountain gorillas, have led to a significant increase in the gorilla population, surpassing that of neighboring countries. By integrating conservation projects with tourism initiatives, Rwanda is not only preserving its natural heritage but also reaping the economic benefits of wildlife tourism. Initiatives like community engagement and revenue-sharing mechanisms ensure that local populations are active participants in the tourism value chain, further contributing to Rwanda's goal of fostering a sustainable economy. As Rwanda continues to position itself as a leading tourism destination in Africa, the long-term impact of these strategic investments is poised to solidify the country's economic resilience and create a sustainable pathway for growth. By leveraging its unique natural assets, fostering international partnerships, and prioritizing environmental conservation, Rwanda is charting a course towards a prosperous future driven by a thriving tourism industry.