Kigali, 11 October 2017 – Today, Prime Minister Dr Edouard Ngirente officiated at the opening of the Africa Hotel Investment Forum – a gathering of key players in tourism and hotel investment.

Speaking at the event, Premier Ngirente pointed out that the African Hotel Industry is one of the fastest growing sectors with an estimated contribution of 8 percent to the continent’s GDP. The sector is projected to rise to 4.9 percent per year until 2025. 

For Africa to achieve its growth target, PM Ngirente stressed, there is need to put in place strategies that support investments in the tourism sector.

“Rwanda has made significant progress in the tourism industry. This was mainly achieved through the development of tourism infrastructure, especially through the expansion of RwandAir’s routes, and investments in a number of leading international hotel brands. As a result, more jobs were created, especially for the youth,” the Premier Said.

Dr Ngirente explained the various investment opportunities available in the country – economic stability, security and business-friendly laws – making Rwanda an ideal place for investors across Africa. 

Held annually, the Africa Hotel Investment Forum brings together key players tourism investment from across the continent to share experiences on best practices and devise ways to ensure the tourism sector’s growth.

The 2017/18 Global Competitiveness Report, a report by the World Economic Forum, ranks Rwanda second on the African continent.