According to WTTC, in 2024, Rwanda’s travel and tourism industry experienced unprecedented growth, setting new economic contributions, employment, and visitor spending records. The sector added Fr1.9 trillion to the national economy, accounting for 9.8% of Rwanda’s total GDP. This marked an increase of 17.7% over the peak last seen in 2019.
Employment and Visitor Spending The industry supported nearly 386,000 jobs in 2024, a significant recovery and growth from the previous year. International visitor expenditure also reached a new high at Fr1 trillion, showing a substantial increase of Fr169 billion compared to 2019. Domestic spending surged by 32.2% from pre-pandemic levels, totaling over Fr773 billion.
Government Initiatives and Infrastructure Development The growth in Rwanda’s tourism sector is largely attributed to strategic government initiatives to diversify the economy. Key infrastructure projects, like the upcoming Bugesera International Airport, are expected to enhance connectivity and boost visitor numbers. The airport is designed to handle up to 14 million passengers annually, promising to impact future tourism and economic activity significantly.
Projections for 2025 and Beyond Looking ahead to 2025, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) forecasts a 13% increase in the sector’s economic contribution, potentially reaching Fr2.1 trillion, representing 10.3% of Rwanda’s GDP. Tourism employment is expected to exceed 402,000 jobs, making up more than 8% of the nation’s total employment. Both international and domestic spending are projected to rise, reaching Fr1.2 trillion and Fr822 billion, respectively.
The Rwandan government continues promoting a sustainable tourism model emphasizing conservation and community benefits. Initiatives like gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and the expansion of eco-tourism in Akagera and Nyungwe exemplify this approach.
Long-Term Outlook The WTTC also provided a long-term outlook, predicting that by 2035, the travel and tourism sector will contribute Fr3.1 trillion to the economy, account for 10% of the GDP, and support over 545,000 jobs. This growth trajectory underscores the potential for significant job creation and sustained economic benefits over the next decade.
