Rwanda was initially known for its iconic attractions, such as the Volcanoes National Park, where tourists visit the mountain gorillas, and other scenic spots like Akagera National Park.
However, over the past 30 years, the country has diversified its offerings, focusing on positioning Rwanda as a premier destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences/Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism. This has been supported by the construction of world-class infrastructure, such as the Kigali Convention Center, and the entry of international hotel chains like Marriott.
In addition to tourism, Rwanda has made strides in other sectors. The sports industry has seen the development of facilities that meet international standards, including the recently renovated Amahoro Stadium, which now boasts a capacity of 45,000 seats, and the BK Arena, known for hosting international basketball games and concerts.
In the education sector, prestigious institutions like Carnegie Mellon University Africa and the University of Global Health Equity in Butaro have established campuses in Rwanda, attracting both local and international students.
The government's pro-business policies have also facilitated the entry of new international companies into the Rwandan market each year, contributing to the country's economic growth.
According to the NISR survey for the fourth quarter of 2023, the expenditure of foreign visitors on goods and various services during their stay in Rwanda has almost doubled over the last decade, rising from $338.1 million in 2015 to $458 million in 2019, reaching $563.9 million in 2023.
The survey, conducted at Kigali International Airport and several border points, including Rusumo, Kagitumba, Gatuna, Cyanika, Rusizi I, Rusizi II, Akanyaru Haut, Nemba, Corniche, and Poids Lourds, revealed that foreign visitors in Rwanda spent the equivalent of over Rwf753.8 billion in 2023.
The breakdown of expenditure shows that 24% came from business travelers, 42% from vacationers, and 23% from those visiting friends and relatives. Data collection took place at the end of the trip, providing a comprehensive overview of the visitors' spending on goods and services acquired during their stay.
Rwandans traveling abroad were also surveyed, revealing that they spent $355.2 million. Notably, 78.1% of the expenditure by foreign visitors in Rwanda came from air travelers, while 57.7% of the expenditure by Rwandans abroad was also attributed to air travel.
The survey also highlighted a significant increase in the number of visitors to Rwanda, rising from 521,000 people in 2021 to 1.4 million in 2023, reflecting the country's growing appeal as a travel destination.
IGIHE
