The Rwandan Civil War which began on October 1, 1990 and ended in July 18, 1994, caused major setbacks in the country. Although climatic changes were never an issue, horrifying images based on the global subconscious are continuously displayed on a CNN rolling news feed now, more than two decades after the war.
Fortunately, Rwanda has been able to successfully build up its reputation with reasonable planning. An immeasurable amount of time has contributed to the healing process of this country.
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Vision 2020, an ambitious plan aimed at transforming this country from its broken status to a middle income earning one was launched in the year 2000. This vision was also focused on promoting the private sector, increasing its health and education services as well as providing good governance.
It involved a framework for tourism sector in the country with a focus on increased value eco-tourists, adventurers and business travellers.
Every marketing expert knows that rebranding exercises require a focal point. Rwanda is blessed with beautiful landscapes where tree covered mountains slant upwards at extremely unbelievable angles from dirt roads.
Such sight observed after a quick downpour or just before the sun sets is a mesmerizing one indeed and perhaps, a huge reason why most tourists and adventurers decide to quit their jobs and start new lives in this territory.
Millions of global aid has been invested into the country’s infrastructure in order to make cleaner, safer and generally more environmentally friendly.
For instance, the plastics ban placed in 2006. Vision 2020 has indeed yielded fruits in this country. Rwanda has been rated as the ninth safest country in the world by World Economic Forum and the easiest country to do business with in Continental Africa by the World Bank.
Like other parts of the world, dark tourism exists here. Most museums and memorials have artifacts that serve as a huge reminder of this country’s past. Although there are several debates on the ethics of dark tourists, some believe the best way to appreciate this country is to first see it from its lowest point.
Several such places for tourism include the Genocidal Memorial, which is the burial site for over 250,000 genocide victims located in the capital city Kigali, a short drive from the centre of town in Gisozi. It provides adequate information on what happened and how far it has come since.
Kigali is one of Africa’s rapidly growing cities with massive rejuvenation and development in infrastructure ranging from luxury hotel chains, designer malls, galleries, museums, and modern housing development. The capital also possesses one of the country’s three national parks.
Kigali has made a huge transformation that many people want to reside in it. The city is among the bustling destinations in Rwanda that changed tourism in the country.
Have you been to Rwanda? Let us know of your experience in this great country.
