The 23rd World Travel and Tourism Council Global Summit kicked off in Rwanda on Thursday, marking a pivotal moment in the African travel and tourism industry.
This prestigious event attracted more than 2,000 participants, including prominent figures like Burundi Vice President Prosper Bazombanza, Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, and Togo President Faure Gnassingbé. However, the highlight of the summit was the moment when Rwandan President H.E. Paul Kagame made the announcement of Visa-Free entry to Rwanda for all African citizens.
President Kagame seized this momentous occasion to address the audience and share insights into the ongoing investments in infrastructure and sporting events in Rwanda, such as the Basketball Africa League. But perhaps, the most significant announcement was his commitment to breaking down barriers that hinder travel within Africa.
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In his address, he stated, “We imagined a Rwanda that anyone would want to travel to. That is how, early on, we identified tourism as a key driver of economic growth”. “We have not been disappointed” he added.
Days after Kenyan President William Ruto made a similar declaration, the Rwandan government decided to provide visa-free admission to all African people. This is evidence of Kenya’s and Rwanda’s commitment to advancing intra-African travel and regional integration. This represents a growing trend to extend to welcome fellow Africans, promote cross-cultural dialogue, economic expansion, and a stronger sense of oneness among the continent’s people.
Watch the entire speech: