The African tourism industry has lost a trailblazer, Dr. Carmen Nibigira, whose unwavering dedication to the development of tourism across the continent has left an indelible mark. Born in Burundi in 1978, Carmen was the first of four daughters in a family where excellence was a way of life. Her parents instilled in her the values of hard work, ambition, and education, shaping her into one of Africa’s most influential tourism leaders.
Carmen’s academic journey began at Lycee Vugizo in Burundi and later took her to St. Peter’s High College in Gloucester, UK. She earned a BA in Travel Management from the University of Brighton in 2005 and a Master’s in Tourism Destination Management from the University College of Birmingham, laying the foundation for a stellar career in the global tourism industry.
Her professional journey began humbly in 2000 as a housekeeper. However, her vision and passion quickly propelled her to manage tour operations in East Africa, including Burundi, Rwanda, Kenya, and Uganda. She also managed an international hotel in Tanzania, gaining over 18 years of extensive experience in the African and European tourism sectors.
Carmen’s tenure as the Regional Coordinator of the East Africa Tourism Platform (2015–2017) was marked by her efforts to promote collaboration among East African nations. She also served as the Director General of the Burundi National Tourism Office, where she worked tirelessly to highlight her country’s tourism potential.
Her expertise extended far beyond administration. She conducted tourism and hospitality-related training programs in Uganda and the DR Congo and advised governments and organizations on tourism competitiveness across West and Central Africa.
Carmen was also a dedicated scholar, holding a research position at the Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne in Switzerland before pursuing her PhD at Clemson University. Her research focused on the policy and political economy of tourism, especially in emerging destinations, and her insights have been published widely.
Her advocacy for inter- and intra-regional travel reflected her belief in the transformative power of tourism to unify and uplift African nations. Carmen’s contributions earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious Africa Travel 100 Women Award.
Carmen was a prominent figure at industry events like Accra Weizo, where she worked alongside leaders such as Henok Tefferra of Boeing Africa and Chike Ogeah of Macfolly Hospitality. Her voice, knowledge, and collaborative spirit made her an invaluable asset to the tourism community.
As we bid farewell to Dr. Carmen Nibigira, we celebrate a life dedicated to excellence, innovation, and the betterment of African tourism. Her journey may have ended, but her vision and legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
Rest in peace, Carmen. You have embarked on a new journey, but your impact on the industry and the lives you touched will remain timeless.
