Rwanda is seeking to solidify its reputation as one of Africa’s leading MICE destinations as the country progresses towards its goal to almost triple the sector’s revenue by 2029.
A Rwandan delegation representing conference venues, hospitality groups and the national carrier, RwandAir, exhibited at Meetings Africa in the Sandton Convention Centre from February 24-26.
Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation 2024-2029 aims to increase MICE revenue from US$95 million in 2023 to US$224 million.
Janet Karemera, CEO of the Rwanda Convention Bureau, said rapid advancements in air connectivity, MICE and hospitality infrastructure development and visa facilitation position the country as a premier business travel destination.
“RwandAir, in partnership with Qatar Airways, provides access to over 160 destinations and connectivity is set to expand further through Bugesera International Airport, which will have capacity for up to 14 million passengers,” she said.
Construction of the new Bugesera International Airport is underway and slated for completion in 2027.
MICE infrastructure has been bolstered with the US$165 million upgrade of the Amahoro Stadium in 2024. It accommodates 45 000 people for sporting and other events. This adds to existing infrastructure such as the Kigali Convention Centre, the Intare Conference Arena and BK Arena.
Karemera said the growing presence of international hotel brands has also enhanced the country’s reputation.
“International hotel brands such as Marriott, Radisson Blu and Four Points by Sheraton are well-established and high-end lodges such as One & Only Gorilla’s Nest and Wilderness Bisate cater to premium incentive travellers.”
The Mövenpick brand will enter Kigali in 2025 after redevelopment of the Umubano Hotel by Kasada Capital Management.
Karemera said waiving visa requirements for travellers from all African Union member states in 2023 was a key selling point attracting intra-African business.
She also highlighted the country’s intensified focus on sustainability.
“Rwanda is actively working towards a carbon-neutral economy by 2050 with initiatives including e-mobility, eliminating single-use plastics and increasing investments in renewable energy.”
By hosting 32 internationally recognised in-person meetings in 2023, the country climbed seven places in the International Congress and Convention Association rankings to 55th – the second-highest ranking in Africa behind South Africa.
