Over the past decade, Rwanda’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry has experienced significant growth, establishing the country as a leading destination for international events.
According to travelandtourworld.com, Since the establishment of the Rwanda Convention Bureau (RCB) in 2015, Rwanda has hosted over 800 international events, reflecting the government’s strong commitment to integrating the MICE sector into the nation’s economic framework. This strategic focus has propelled Rwanda to secure the second-place ranking in Africa for association conferences and meetings, as recognized in the ICCA 2023 rankings.
This milestone coincides with RCB’s 10th anniversary, underscoring the powerful collaboration between Rwanda’s private sector and government in positioning the country as a top MICE destination. Ten years ago, Rwanda’s MICE infrastructure was limited to a few key hotels. Today, the landscape has transformed, boasting cutting-edge facilities such as the Kigali Convention Centre, Kigali Convention & Exhibition Village, Intare Conference Arena, BK Arena, and the newly renovated Amahoro Stadium, which now seats 45,000 people. The forthcoming Bugesera International Airport, scheduled to open in 2026, will further elevate Rwanda’s capacity to host large-scale events, with the ability to accommodate up to 14 million passengers annually and ensuring smooth arrivals for global delegates.
READ: Africa: Rwanda’s marketing drive puts country on global spotlight as its MICE, tourism industry combats COVID with innovative technological adaptation
The hospitality sector in Rwanda has also seen significant expansion, with the introduction of globally recognized brands like the Kigali Marriott Hotel, Radisson Blu Hotel, and Four Points by Sheraton. The soon-to-open Mövenpick Hotel in 2025 will add to this impressive lineup. Additionally, luxury lodges such as One & Only Gorilla’s Nest, Bisate Lodge, and Singita Kwitonda Lodge enhance Rwanda’s appeal as a dual-purpose destination for both business and leisure.
Rwanda’s national carrier, RwandAir, in collaboration with Qatar Airways, now offers connections to over 160 destinations, ensuring ease of travel. The country has also developed a robust security and intelligence infrastructure, earning it recognition as one of the safest nations in Africa and globally. Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, is particularly noted for its cleanliness and safety, setting it apart as a model city in sub-Saharan Africa for its exceptional organization and environmental standards.
READ: Africa: After being listed among Top 7 MICE Hotspot in the world, Rwanda makes Forbes 20 Best places to travel to in 2021
As Rwanda celebrates its 10th year of participation in IBTM Barcelona, the country proudly reflects on the extraordinary growth of its MICE sector. From its humble beginnings with just two partners, Rwanda’s presence at IBTM has expanded to include over 20 partners, eager to showcase the nation’s achievements on the global stage.
Rwanda’s success in the MICE industry is further evidenced by its hosting of major global events over the past decade. Notable examples include the 73rd FIFA Congress in 2023, which attracted over 1,500 delegates, and the Women Deliver Conference, also in 2023, with over 5,000 participants. The Basketball Africa League (BAL), held annually from 2021 to 2024, brought in more than 1,000 delegates each year. Other significant events include the International Conference on AIDS and STIs in Africa (ICASA) 2019 with over 4,000 delegates, the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2022, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) 2022, and the World Economic Forum in 2016.
Rwanda has also secured impressive bids from IBTM Barcelona, including past and future events such as the Mojaloop Conference 2023 (300 delegates), the Junior Chamber International (JCI) Africa and Middle East Conference 2024 (500 delegates), and the Jehovah’s Witness Congress 2025 (3,000 delegates).
As we look ahead to IBTM 2024, Rwanda is excited to showcase some of its top MICE venues, Destination Management Companies (DMCs), and Professional Conference Organizers (PCOs). Featured venues include the Intare Conference Arena, Kigali Convention Centre, Kigali Serena Hotel, and Kigali Marriott Hotel. Leading PCOs such as Business Events East Africa, Sensitive Group Ltd, Global Events Africa Ltd, CUBE, Events and Media Services Group, Planitwiss, and Rwanda Events Group will also be highlighted.
We invite both new and returning meeting buyers at IBTM Barcelona to visit the Rwanda stand (Stand No: M35). Discover why Rwanda is fast becoming a preferred destination for international meetings and events and explore how we can help bring your future events to life.
