The High Commission of Rwanda in India in cooperation with the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) turned their vision towards the Indian travel trade to promote Rwanda as a new destination for tourism and investment opportunities by organizing a two-city road show. This followed close on the heels of a very successful participation at the Mumbai Outbound Travel Mart held at the Bombay Exhibition and Convention Centre from February 18-20. This is the first major initiative undertaken by an African country following the successful India-Africa summit hosted by the Indian Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, in October 2015. The road shows were held in Mumbai at The Westin on February 19, 2016, and in Bangalore at The Chancery Pavilion on February 20, 2016.
The High Commissioner of Rwanda, His Excellency Ernest Rwamucyo, highlighted in his speech: “We are happy to be here in Mumbai and showcase Remarkable Rwanda to the second outbound travel market in the world. In 2014-15, Indians were the 2nd largest visitors to Rwanda after Americans.”
Mrs. Anny Batamuriza, Vice Chairperson of Tourism Chamber Rwanda Private Sector Federation, said, “We look to the India as the future for various tourism opportunities in Rwanda.” She highlighted various initiatives being taken by the Rwanda Tourism Board to tap into the Indian tourism market.
Mrs. Linda Mutesi, Division Manager, Tourism Marketing, Rwanda Development Board, gave a detailed presentation on “Destination Rwanda” highlighting the investment opportunities available in the tourism and hospitality sector, and assured maximum support from the Rwandan authorities.
A Memorandum of Understanding was signed by Mrs. Batamuriza in the presence of the High Commissioner, with the President of the Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI), Mr. Zakkir Ahmed, in Mumbai.
During their visit to Bangalore, the Rwandan delegation had the opportunity to interact with members of the Federation of Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Karnataka.
In Bangalore, Shri Arvind Jadav, Chief Secretary to the government of Karnataka, addressed the gathering and extended the support of the government of Karnataka to Rwanda in its endeavors.
A large section of the business investors from Karnataka expressed their interest in the various investment opportunities in Rwanda at the Bangalore road show.
The seminars held in Mumbai and Bangalore were a huge success with an attendance of over 200 participants at each city, including eminent leaders from the travel trade and the corporate world.
The Q&A received enthusiastic participation from the audience seeking the support of the diplomatic authorities of Rwanda to collaborate to promote Rwanda as a major destination in the Indian market.
The event concluded with a colorful cultural performance by the Rwandan students in India who showcased the traditional Rwandan dance with active participation from the audience.
