Regional
Rwanda’s rise as a meetings, conference hub
Rwanda's
ascent as an influential hub for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events
(MICE) has been remarkable.
The
country’s transformational journey took shape in 2017, and continues to
flourish, firmly establishing Rwanda as a premier MICE destination in Africa.
Since
its inauguration in 2016, the Kigali Convention Centre has not only set new
standards in the region but has also significantly boosted Rwanda's tourism
industry. It stands as an architectural marvel that seamlessly blends modernity
with Rwandan heritage. This unique venue, with its multifaceted design,
symbolizes the country's cultural roots and its forward-looking aspirations.
The
advent of the Kigali Convention Centre has not only transformed Rwanda's event
landscape but has also become a catalyst for boosting tourism in the region.
The
International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), a global meeting
industry network, recognized Rwanda's ascent on the MICE stage. In their 2022
rankings, Rwanda secured second position as the most popular destination for
international conferences and events in Africa, just behind Cape Town, South
Africa.
These
rankings are based on the number of MICE association meetings held regularly
and rotating between at least three different countries, each with at least 50
participants.
In
2017, Rwanda hosted a series of major conferences that set the stage for its
future success in this industry.
The
International Conference on Plant Genetic Resources gathered participants
representing signatories to the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources
for Food and Agriculture. The conference aimed to discuss achieving the 2030
Sustainable Development Goals, particularly targets 2.5 and 15.6, under the
theme, 'The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Role of Plant
Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture.'
Beyond
that, Rwanda hosted a preparatory meeting for the 2017 UN Peacekeeping Defence
Ministerial Conference. The event brought together over 100 participants to
discuss critical topics like "Protecting those at Risk" and
"Early Warning and Rapid Deployment." Delegates explored gender
perspectives in peacekeeping and progress in establishing a UN rapid deployment
capability.
The
African Organisation for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC) Conference
brought together cancer specialists from across the continent to address the
impact of cancer in Africa. It served as a platform for sharing research and
expertise in cancer management and research.
Rwanda
also hosted the fifth East Africa International Arbitration Conference, which
explored linkages between international arbitration and Africa's economy. This
event aimed to promote international arbitration and its role in African
economic development.
The
year 2017 showcased Rwanda as a hub for global health events, including the
Medical Instrument Trade Conference, the Global Fund Board Meeting, and the
Africa Organization for Research and Training in Cancer conference.
Rwanda
emerged as a capable host for international meetings and exhibitions,
highlighting its potential as a destination for such events.
The
Youth Engagement in Global Health initiative emphasized the need for increased
youth involvement in global health decision-making, echoing the voices of
organizations like the International Pharmaceutical Students' Federation (IPSF)
and the International Federation of Medical Students' Association (IFMSA).
Furthermore,
the Aviation Africa 2017 conference, hosted at the Kigali Convention Center,
brought together aviation players from Africa and beyond. It focused on the
potential and challenges of the aviation sector on the continent, with a
special emphasis on Rwanda's growing aviation industry.
In
addition, the Africa Engineering Conference 2017, held under the theme
"Effective Waste Management in Africa," showcased Rwanda's commitment
to sustainable development and effective waste management practices.
The
fifth International Conference on Big Data for Official Statistics also marked
a significant event in Rwanda's journey to become a MICE destination.
These events, held in 2017, set the stage for Rwanda's rise in the MICE industry, and the subsequent years have only seen the country's star shine even brighter.