Rwanda’s nature-based tourism sector is proving to be a significant engine of economic growth, with new data revealing that every $1 million (approximately Rwf 1.3 billion) invested in the industry generates 1,328 direct and indirect jobs. A recent World Bank report underscores the growing importance of this sector, which is responsible for attracting 80% of the country’s leisure and conference tourists.
The report, released this week, highlights how nature-based tourism has contributed substantially to Rwanda’s economy. Revenue from activities in the country’s three main national parks—Volcanoes, Akagera, and Nyungwe—has surged from $8.2 million in 2008 to $27.3 million in 2022. These parks, home to iconic wildlife such as mountain gorillas, elephants, and lions, are a central attraction for global visitors.
According to Rwanda’s Development Board (RDB), visitation to the country’s national parks has more than doubled, growing from 43,083 visitors in 2008 to 107,976 in 2022. This surge reflects both Rwanda’s growing appeal as a top-tier ecotourism destination and the expanding role of nature-based tourism in its economic strategy.
Gregory Bakunzi, founder of Red Rocks, a community-based tourism initiative near Volcanoes National Park, advocates for expanding Rwanda’s tourism offerings beyond national parks. Bakunzi proposes the development of additional nature reserves, such as the Mukungwa River eco-tourism park, which would help diversify the country’s tourism landscape and create more employment opportunities. He also highlights the potential for linking cultural experiences with nature tourism to further enrich visitor experiences.
The World Bank’s report also notes that the nature-based tourism sector generates higher-quality jobs, particularly in accommodation and food services, which tend to employ a higher proportion of women compared to other industries. Tourism not only boosts the hospitality sector but also creates economic linkages to agriculture, transport, and retail.
To build on these gains, local investors are proposing innovative tourism projects. Gervais Hafashimana, a tourism entrepreneur around Lake Ruhondo, is planning canopy walkways and a floating restaurant to showcase the region’s biodiversity. Such developments, coupled with enhanced cultural tourism experiences, are expected to strengthen Rwanda’s tourism industry.
However, for nature-based tourism to thrive sustainably, the World Bank stresses the importance of conservation efforts. The report estimates that $97.5 million to $107.7 million in investments will be needed for habitat restoration and protection by 2030. Furthermore, the report advocates for increased private sector involvement through public-private partnerships, which would drive further economic growth.
The government has already taken steps to ensure the benefits of tourism are shared with local communities. A revenue-sharing program allocates a percentage of tourism revenues to communities near protected areas, but the World Bank suggests expanding these programs to ensure that local populations benefit more directly from the sector’s success.
With these measures in place, Rwanda’s nature-based tourism sector is well-positioned to continue its role as a key driver of job creation and economic development in the years to come.
