Tributes are pouring in for Dr Carmen Nibigira, a champion of East African tourism and hospitality, who passed away this week at the age of 46. The Burundi-born, tireless advocate for tourism achieved so many significant milestones throughout her career.
She lived and worked in the US, Switzerland, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda and other countries, which informed her knowledge of the industry and the region. In 2014, she returned to Burundi to take up the role of Director General of the National Tourism Board as she saw this as an opportunity to reform the tourism sector in her country. Nibigira served as Regional Coordinator for the East Africa Tourism Platform between 2015 and 2017 where she was a strong advocate for regional integration and for East Africa to be unified as a single destination.
Her efforts in tourism were recognised in 2017 when she was named one of the Top 100 Influential Women in Travel and, a year later, received the African Women in Tourism Leadership Award. At the time of her passing, the mother of two was leading Tourism and Hospitality Management for the Mastercard Foundation’s Rwanda Programs team where she focused on skills development and capacity building, especially for young professionals in tourism.
Beyond her professional achievements, Nibigira passionately advocated for female empowerment. As a board member of the Akilah Institute for Women in Rwanda, she supported initiatives that equipped young women in tourism with management and entrepreneurial skills.
During her PhD studies at Clemson University, Nibigira specialised in researching the political economy of tourism and the socio-political dynamics of emerging tourist destinations. Her legacy as a pioneering force in intra-regional tourism, a dedicated mentor and an inspiration to many will live on.
Industry tributes
Remembering Nibigira’s infectious positivity and influence, Elcia Grandcourt, Regional Director for the Africa Department of UN Tourism, said: “She was always full of energy and brought light to our industry. Her passing is a huge loss.”
The Rwanda Chamber of Tourism said: “We are deeply saddened by the loss of Nibigira, a cherished friend and reliable adviser. Her steadfast support, wisdom and passion for tourism were a source of inspiration for us all. We celebrate her lasting legacy.”
The East African Tourism Platform (EATP), where Nibigira served as its first CEO from 2013 to 2016, paid tribute to her on X: "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Dr Nibigira, former EATP Regional Coordinator and a passionate advocate for East Africa’s tourism."
Kenya-based sustainable tourism expert Judy Kepher-Gona wrote on her social media pages: “Her legacy of unity and sustainable growth will continue. Farewell Carmen Nibigira. Can't believe. In denial. Were you an angel sent among us for a season? You made our lives richer. You extended the ladder for a sister whenever you could. I am a witness. Go well, my friend. You were a brilliant mind and a beautiful soul. Peace and comfort to your children, family and friends.”
Burundi Tourism said on its social media pages: “We’re sad to announce the passing of Dr Carmen Nibigira, a trailblazer in the field of tourism in Burundi and East Africa. A top academic, researcher and leader, Dr Nibigira made a big impact on the growth of tourism in East Africa. Her dedication and leadership will continue to inspire future generations. May she rest in peace.”
Reflecting on plans to advance the hotel sector in East Africa, Jean Byamugisha, Executive Director of the Uganda Hotel Owners Association, shared: “Carmen’s commitment to training young people in hospitality was unmatched. May her legacy live on.”
Akandwanaho Amos, a researcher at the Institute of Policy Analysis and Research in Rwanda, hailed Nibigira as a "champion of the tourism and hospitality industry in East Africa" – emphasising her pivotal role in shaping numerous institutions and advancing the sector.
Sheikh Abdul Azizi Al Nuaimi, known as the Green Sheikh and a member of the Ajman Royal family in the UAE, noted: “I first met Dr Nibigira at a global conservation conference in Kigali, Rwanda, in 2018. She was a visionary in sustainable tourism and community empowerment. Her keynote on transforming tourism into a force for good deeply resonated with me and we quickly bonded over shared values of family, community and sustainability. Carmen’s admiration for Rwanda’s conservation efforts mirrored her lifelong commitment to sustainability.”
Other industry leaders, including Jon Howell, founder of AviaDev Africa, and Jacinta Nzioka, a destination marketing expert, also expressed their grief and admiration, recognising Nibigira’s boundless energy and innovative contributions to the sector.
