Growing up in Musanze, at the base of the Virunga volcanoes, tourism has always been part of my life. As Rwanda marks the 20th Kwita Izina ceremony, an annual event where baby mountain gorillas are named, I find myself reflecting on the remarkable growth of Rwanda’s tourism industry—a journey that parallels the nation’s transformation from tragedy to triumph.
My childhood memories are shaped by the mist-covered peaks of the Virungas and the thrill of visitors venturing into the mountains to witness our gentle giants, the mountain gorillas. My family, long involved in the tourism sector, was among those who believed in Rwanda’s potential even during its most challenging times. Through their eyes, I saw how our tourism industry evolved—from a fragile post-conflict venture to a crucial pillar of our economy and national identity.
The Evolution of Rwanda’s Tourism Sector
The changes have been profound. In the early years, the Office Rwandais du Tourisme et des Parcs Nationaux (ORTPN) managed our wildlife areas with limited resources but immense dedication. The transition to the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) marked a critical turning point. Tourism was no longer just about conservation; it became a strategic driver of economic development, community empowerment, and national branding. This shift has delivered results beyond our expectations.
Having hiked all three volcanic peaks of the Virunga range and encountered mountain gorillas in their misty habitat, I can personally attest to the transformative power of these experiences. Each trek is more than an adventure—it’s a story of conservation, community engagement, and world-class hospitality. After conquering Mount Kilimanjaro recently, I realized that while other destinations offer higher peaks, Rwanda offers something uniquely profound: a journey of resilience, restoration, and renewal.
Tourism During the Pandemic: A Turning Point
The COVID-19 pandemic brought its own set of challenges, but it also presented an unexpected silver lining. As international travel slowed, Rwandans began to explore the treasures within their own country. Domestic tourism surged, and in the process, we rediscovered our rich natural heritage. From young professionals hiking through Nyungwe National Park to families exploring Akagera’s wildlife, Rwandans became tourists in their own land, forging deeper connections with the landscapes that define us.
The Kwita Izina Legacy
As we approach the 20th Kwita Izina, a ceremony that now attracts global attention, we celebrate far more than our success in conservation. We celebrate the realization of a bold vision, the renewal of a nation, and the deep pride we hold for our homeland. What started as a local event has grown into an international symbol of Rwanda’s emergence as a premier tourism destination.
Yet, what moves me most is not the international accolades or economic statistics. It’s the transformation I’ve seen in my own community in Musanze. Tourism has brought education, employment, and dignity to the region. Former poachers now work as conservationists. Small-scale farmers have turned into successful entrepreneurs. Environmental clubs in local schools inspire children to dream of becoming veterinary doctors, tour guides, researchers, and hospitality professionals.
The Future of Rwanda’s Tourism
Looking ahead, the future of Rwanda’s tourism sector shines bright. Our high-value, low-impact model is now considered a blueprint for sustainable tourism around the world. As we expand our offerings—introducing cultural experiences and conference tourism—we remain grounded in our core values: conservation, community benefit, and exceptional service.
The journey from the Rwanda of my childhood to the Rwanda of today has been nothing short of extraordinary. As we gather to name our gorilla babies during this year’s Kwita Izina, we also name our aspirations for the future. In every tourist’s visit, every conservation milestone, and every community uplifted, we see the realization of dreams that once seemed impossible.
From the misty slopes of the Virungas to the savannahs of Akagera, from Nyungwe’s towering canopy to the bustling streets of Kigali, Rwanda’s tourism story is a testament to what can be achieved when vision is paired with determination.
As we celebrate this 20th Kwita Izina, we do so as proud participants in one of Africa’s most inspiring transformations. The world may know Rwanda for its gorillas, but those who have lived this journey know the real story: it’s about the indomitable spirit of a nation that dared to dream big—and the people who turned those dreams into reality, one step at a time.
