THE government has allocated 240 hectares of land formerly owned by Akagera Game Lodge to Akagera National Park in a bid to boost the tourism sector.  The decision was reached during the last cabinet meeting held at the end of last month.

According to a statement from the office of the Prime Minister, Cabinet approved the transfer of 240 hectares from Akagera Game Lodge to Akagera National Park for its better utilisation. 

Jes Gruner, the Park’s Manager, said the move is an opportunity to invest more in wild life conservation.

 "This is a good move as it gives the park management assurance that the land will not be given to developers anytime soon,” said.

 However, Louise Kanyonga, the acting Head of Investment Promotion and Implementation, said that the lodge did not lose any rights. 

"It’s just that the land that was not being utilised by AKagera Game Lodge for both current and future development was returned to the Game Park,” Kanyonga said.

Government is currently trying to identify investors to take over the lodge as private investors are best placed to manage and optimize such an investment, she added.