Rwanda’s national tourist board, Visit Rwanda, has reported a 21% increase in visitors from the United Kingdom for 2017.
This comes after an outcry over the recent announcement of a deal with English football team Arsenal FC to promote tourism to the country. The organisation came under fire from critics questioning the reported €34m being spent on the deal in one of the poorest countries in Africa.
In response to the public’s reaction, the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) released a statement on Tuesday saying that British visitors had increased to 16 000 in 2017, and this is expected to grow as exposure for the country grows. The release also cited increased air access as a potential reason for growth, with RwandAir now flying direct to Gatwick, London, three times a week.
Clare Akamanzi, CEO of the RDB has defended the partnership, saying tourism contributes 12.7% of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). She added: “Rwanda has opened up in recent years, enabling visitors to explore our country safely and in comfort.”
