Kigali, Rwanda (TAN): Rwanda is using the platform of an annual cycle race to promote tourist attractions of the country, The New Times reported.
Organisers of the 11-day Tour Du Rwanda cycle race that starts on February 24, Sunday, are partnering with German Society for International Cooperation (Gesellschaft Internationale Zusammenarbeit or GIZ) to promote the Kivu Belt region that has tourism destinations such as Lake Kivu, museums, tea plantations and hill stations.
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Speaking to The New Times, tourism policy analyst Carmen Nibigira said: “Sports tourism could be another avenue that can depict Rwanda to be an attraction site for many events. If sports tournaments such as volley ball and cycling are to be given more credit, then the number of foreign visitors coming into Rwanda would definitely increase.”
“I think sports organisations can enter into partnerships with tourism and other bodies to contribute to Rwanda’s tourism agenda… For example the Tour du Rwanda taking place this week, which will surely attract the attention of a variety of tourists. When tourists come around to attend such events, they definitely want to explore the city as well. It would then be great for organisations like Rwanda Development Board to draw itineraries for them to tour around, hence contributing to the revenue coming into the country,” PR professional Bob Rutarindwa told the newspaper.
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Jacky Tumukunde, who is in the tourism business, has praised the tourism promotion initiatives as part of the cycling event.
“Setting aside the amazing Gorillas and game drives that our parks can offer, Sports could act as an added value for tourists which is a fundamental contribution,” she said.
